Written by: Sana Shrestha - 25056, Grade XI
Posted on: 27 February, 2024
Wood carving is an ancient form of art where artisans shape various types of woods into highly detailed designs and sculptures. It is a timeless art which grew in the golden era before the Malla and Licchavi period. It is called Newari wood carving because it originated from the Newari community in the Kathmandu Valley. It is a magnificent art where people use various tools such as knives, blades and other carving tools to make designs on wood. It is also considered as an artwork or a mastery of sculpture.
The role of Newari Community in Wood Carving
Newari people have contributed a lot in prominence to the wood carving in Nepal. To create traditional Newari wood carvings, different types of woods are needed including sal, cedar and teak. These woods were specifically chosen because of their durability and resistance to insects. Dhunsi was also used as a raw material for wood carving during old age. Executing this art form requires exceptional precision and expertise because of their techniques such as carving, piercing, and fretwork to bring their designs to life. It requires exceptional skill, a lot of patience and attention to even the smallest details. Some of these designs are inspired by the symbolism of Hindu and Buddhist traditions while others from nature, aspects of daily life and so on. These unique designs have helped in contributing to the uniqueness of Nepalese heritage. These wood carvings include various structural elements such as temples, doors, pillars, windows and so on. These carvings help in beautifying those various structures. Many of these carved pieces contain symbols and hidden meanings which reflect the cultural and religious heritage of the Newari community. Mythical creatures and many holistic stories which are made on wood carvings are an example of it. These art forms which portray many stories in a very beautiful manner have impressed many people. In the Newar community, there is a specific caste who works in these wood carvings. Through their wood carving creations, artisans not just show their artistic creativity and skill but also express their cultural identity and traditions of their community.
The Newar community has played a very important role in preserving and carrying on the tradition of wood carving from one generation to another. It is an integral part of newari cultural heritage which contributes to the artistic landscape of the Kathmandu valley. It not only shows craftsmanship but also reflects their cultural heritage, religious beliefs and their traditions. Newari wood carving has contributed a lot to Nepal's tourism industry. These architectures have attracted many tourists all over the world. Visitors are fascinated by the artisans' different ways of showing the cultural heritages and traditions in Nepal. This has helped in economic growth of the country. This newari tradition now has been followed and cherished by many people. People in this generation need more than ten years to completely learn and perfect their carving skills.
Preservation Initiatives for Nepal's Wood Carvings
Nowadays there has been an increase in awareness and preservation of the tradition of wood carving. Heritage conservation groups and many cultural organizations have worked to preserve and protect the wood carvings in temples and other places. They are replacing and renovating damaged carvings and ensuring that these carvings will be treasured for future generations. Despite the change in trends there is still practice of carvings and many workshops are being conducted to cultivate the talent. Despite various efforts to preserve and promote wood carving, several challenges have also taken place. Urbanization, environmental degradation, and socioeconomic factors bring threats to traditional wood carving communities and their cultural heritage.
Conclusion
Fortunately, we feel that the medieval era never ended in Nepal because most of its historical monuments and artworks have remained preserved. The three medieval Durbar Squares and temples of Kathmandu valley have been preserved with incredible wooden artworks. Nowadays these artworks have got a huge commercial value and are exported to foreign countries as well. Wood carvings of Nepal have reached all over the world now.
