Experts urge prioritization of digital art development in Nepal

Kathmandu, Feb 21: Scholars and artists have called for greater focus on the development of digital art, emphasising its growing importance in the era of advanced technology.

Speaking at an interaction programme organised by the Animation and VFX Artists Association of Nepal in Naxal, Kathmandu, Nardamani Hartamchhali, Vice Chancellor of the Nepal Academy of Fine Arts, described digital art as a significant initiative representing a new era of creative expression. He highlighted that animation and VFX are not only tools for entertainment but also bridges connecting art, technology, and culture. “Animation transforms imagination into reality, blending creativity, technology, and human sensibilities,” he said, stressing that these media can link national culture with the global community.

Hartamchhali also suggested integrating digital art, animation, and VFX into formal education to cultivate a creative, technology-savvy, and globally minded younger generation.

Bikram Manandhar, President of the Animation and VFX Artists Association of Nepal, echoed the call, urging the government to formally recognise animation and VFX as key sectors and provide legal frameworks for their growth. He emphasised that future generations should be oriented toward the creative industry through policies that merge creativity with science, supported by institutional and legal facilitation.

Speakers at the event also noted that digital art and animation are crucial for cultural diplomacy, economic development, and national identity building. Suchan Raj Bajracharya, the association’s secretary, emphasised raising awareness and establishing intellectual property rights, while member Raj Pradhan highlighted efforts to protect digital art content, citing the sector’s current lack of formal recognition.

Sushila Karki from the Federal Government’s Intellectual Property Division provided guidance on registration procedures and proper use of intellectual property, underlining the importance of safeguarding creative works.

The programme underscored that collaborative efforts by the state, society, and educational institutions could position Nepal’s digital art sector as a globally competitive and culturally significant industry.