Rebuilding Recaptured was a socially engaged art initiative that convened 18 artists, writers, and researchers from Bangladesh, Finland, India, and Nepal to contribute to post-earthquake rebuilding efforts in Nepal following the 2015 disaster.
The program unfolded in two phases. The first phase, hosted at Nexus Culture Nepal in Kathmandu, featured site visits, lectures, artist talks, and workshops designed to explore artistic approaches to rebuilding and to strengthen cross-cultural collaboration.
The second phase focused on community-based projects in earthquake-affected regions. In Sindupalchowk, the initiative worked closely with Dalit communities, while in Bungamati and Lalitpur, projects were developed with young people. Engaging with youth, mothers, children, and educators, the participating artists facilitated activities aimed at reimagining community life and envisioning sustainable futures in a post-earthquake context.
The outcomes were diverse, ranging from conceptual explorations—such as a mapping project where residents of Sipapokhare collectively re-envisioned their village—to practical solutions, including a soundproofing system designed by school students using locally sourced materials for their temporary tin shelter classroom.
Project Details
Location: Nepal, 2017
Coordinators: Ashmina Ranjit (Nepal/South Asia), Narayan Rokka (Sipapokhare), JP Kaljonen (Finland)
Production: Lasanaa / Nexus (Nepal) and University of the Arts Helsinki / Academy of Fine Arts (Finland), in collaboration with Porapara Space for Artists (Bangladesh)
Artists: Abhishekh Shah (NP), Abu Naser Robii (BD), Amritah Sen (IN), Deepti Sherchan (NP), Hemmo Siponen (FI), Hira Bijuli Nepali (NP), Kunjan Tamang (NP), Keshab Raj Khanal (NP), Malashree Suvedi (NP), Moona Pennanen (FI), Muna Bhadel (NP), Muna Gurung (NP), Prakash Ranjit (NP), Rabin Maharjan (NP), Rabita Kisi (NP), Shrawan Maharjan (NP), Yajyu Manandhar (NP)
Type: Social Practice Art project
reference:
https://kathmandupost.com/art-entertainment/2017/06/18/rebuilding-recaptured