Making Stone Art A Profession

Stone sculpturing is there since ancient era but stone art as a modern practice is gaining popularity in recent days in Europe and even in some Asian countries.

- LB Thapa

Interestingly enough this art, has not yet been taken up professionally by people here in Nepal. But seeing its growing global popularity in the world it seems that sooner or later the stone art will become popular in Nepal as well. Recently I met two Pokhareli brothers who have taken stone art as their profession.

“Actually we lost our father when he was only 45-year old and we two brothers were at loss as to what to do. On top, there were many people, who wanted us to break down, sell our house and even leave Pokhara. Literarily speaking, there were no one to commiserate with our pain and sorrow. In a situation like that, being the eldest son in the family, I decided to take family responsibility in my hands”, said Jiwan GC solemnly.

Two young boys, Jiwan GC the elder one and Rizon GC, the younger brother look no more than ordinary young men of their age do, but the kind of stone art they have produced does make them special.

While speaking with these two brothers they revealed the fact that at present they are the only people in Nepal who have taken up stone art professionally.

“Ever since I was a small boy I had tremendous interest in collecting various sizes of rocks. It was my childhood hobby. After then I would color them and place those pebbles in proper order. In the beginning my parents did not like me to bring pebbles at home, but later when they saw my art they began appreciating my talent”, said Jiwan with a broad smile on his face.