Artful Masterpiece Of An Illustrator

In the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu's urban landscape, amidst the towering buildings and the ceaseless flow of life, there exists a timeless tradition—a ritual that transcends the chaos of the city and brings families together in harmony under the warm embrace of the sun.  In "Oranges, Sun and Harmony," Srija Shrestha invites readers on a journey into the heart of Kathmandu's winter ritual, where the simple act of sharing oranges becomes a profound expression of familial love, cultural identity, and the enduring beauty of human connection.

The book opens with a glimpse of Kathmandu's Saturdays, a day revered for its precious gift of leisure amid the week's hectic pace. As the sun rises high in the sky, families across the city converge on their rooftops, seeking refuge from the cold in the radiant warmth of its rays. It is a scene painted with tender strokes by Shrestha, as she describes the meticulous preparations that precede this weekly tradition—cleaning, washing, and finally, the collective ascent to the rooftop sanctuary. Upon reaching the rooftop, a sense of tranquility descends, punctuated only by the laughter of children and the soft murmur of conversation. Here, amidst the crisp winter air and the golden glow of the sun, families lay out their mats and unpack their bags of oranges, each fruit a symbol of the vibrant harmony that characterises this ritual. Shrestha's prose delicately captures the essence of these moments, infusing each word with a warmth and intimacy that draws readers into the heart of the scene.

Central to the ritual is the act of sharing oranges, a practice that transcends its culinary significance to become a symbol of familial love and togetherness. As Shrestha eloquently describes, the simple act of peeling an orange becomes a meditative experience—a moment of mindfulness in which individuals are fully present, immersed in the sensory delights of the fruit and the soothing warmth of the sun. Through her evocative prose, Shrestha captures the profound beauty of these moments, revealing the transformative power of simple gestures to foster deeper connections between loved ones.

Yet, "Oranges, Sun and Harmony" is more than just a portrayal of a traditional ritual; it is a profound exploration of the themes of home, belonging, and cultural identity. Through her own reflections as a Nepali artist navigating the complexities of cultural heritage and diaspora, Shrestha imbues the narrative with a rich tapestry of personal insight and cultural nuance. Readers are invited to accompany her on a journey of self-discovery as she grapples with questions of identity and belonging while celebrating the enduring bonds that connect her to her roots.

 Shrestha's intimate connection to her subject matter is evident throughout the book, as she seamlessly weaves together personal anecdotes, cultural observations, and historical context to create a multi-layered narrative that resonates deeply with readers. Her prose is infused with a palpable sense of nostalgia as she recalls her own experiences of participating in the ritual and reflects on its enduring significance in her life.

 In addition to her lyrical prose, Shrestha's book is accompanied by a series of enchanting illustrations, painted by herself, that further enrich the reading experience. Each illustration is a visual feast, capturing the vibrant colours and dynamic energy of Kathmandu's streets, as well as the tender moments of familial bonding that define the rooftop ritual. Shrestha's artwork serves as a poignant complement to her storytelling, inviting readers to immerse themselves fully in the world she so beautifully brings to life.

 Srija Shrestha, a talented Nepali artist and illustrator, infuses her book "Oranges, Sun and Harmony" with her unique artistic vision and creative storytelling prowess. Graduating from Teesside University with an MA in Illustration in 2022, Shrestha's work spans a diverse range of mediums, including zines, comics, Risoprints, cyanotype prints, and illustrated short films.

 Her art serves as more than just a visual accompaniment to the text; it is an integral part of the narrative, enriching the reader's experience and deepening their connection to the story. Through her illustrations, Shrestha captures the vibrant energy of Kathmandu's streets, the warmth of familial bonds, and the timeless beauty of the rooftop ritual. Each stroke of her pen is imbued with a sense of emotion and authenticity, inviting readers to immerse themselves fully in the world she creates.

 Moreover, Shrestha's artwork reflects her commitment to exploring themes of mental health, emotional well-being, and cultural identity. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of her Nepali roots, she creates illustrations that resonate on a profound level, sparking reflection and introspection in her audience.

 In "Oranges, Sun and Harmony," Shrestha's illustrations serve as a visual journey—a testament to the power of art to evoke emotion, provoke thought, and transcend language barriers. 

It is a testament to the enduring power of tradition, community, and the bonds that unite us as human beings. Through Srija Shrestha's exquisite prose and captivating illustrations, readers are transported to a world where time slows down and the beauty of life is found in the simplest of moments. It is a book to savour, to cherish, and to revisit—a celebration of love, connection, and the profound magic of everyday rituals.

(Bhusal is a journalist at The Rising Nepal.)