Couple and a Dog Painting

Jugal Rajbhandari is an interdisciplinary artist based in Kathmandu, Nepal who incorporates visual, auditory, and kinesthetic modes of expression to create an immersive experience for his viewers. Born and raised in Bhaktapur, Jugal was fascinated by the esoteric teachings of Newari culture. His works are usually inspired by various branches of philosophy, psychology, mythology, linguistics, symbolism, and occult science. “My first spark of creativity was when I was very young. My grandmother used to tell me bizarre stories at bedtime. All these stories had a common theme of mysticism. It didn’t take me long to figure out that there was some sort of symbolic and tantric significance in these tales. Since then, I have been interested in the mysticism of this city. I thought the world was magical while growing up and always felt like there was a sense of purpose to all that was happening around me. Through these modes of expression, we can actually make sense of it. I felt like this world was a gargantuan blank canvas, and I had the power to color their world mine.” One of the most striking aspects of Jugal's work is his rejection of traditional artistic norms and techniques. He prefers to work with unconventional materials and techniques, and he sees his art as a rejection of the strictures and conventions of the traditional art world. His work is often abstract and figurative, featuring cryptograms, expressionist brush-strokes, and other elements that challenge the viewer's perception of what art can be. In addition to his visual art, Jugal is also an accomplished musician and poet, and he views these mediums as equally important forms of expression. He sees the process of making music and writing poetry as deeply intimate and therapeutic, and he still enjoys collaborating with friends on experimental music projects. “I believe that art is the most effective way for me to communicate with my subconscious and unconscious mind. Through the language of symbols, I am able to access the hidden layers of my mind and decipher their messages. While a picture may speak a thousand words, a symbol can convey a thousand images, unlocking the mysteries of my psyche. When I create an art piece, I am always searching for these cryptic networks of symbols. I believe that there are no coincidences in life and that everything happens for a higher purpose. Even unintended gestures have divine intentions. For me, these artworks are like roadmaps to my consciousness.