MONTEREY, CA.- The Monterey Museum of Art opened the highly anticipated exhibition, Tsherin Sherpa: Different Worlds, showcasing the extraordinary talent of contemporary California artist Tsherin Sherpa. Visitors will witness the evolution of Sherpa’s fearless practice—bridging cultural divides and igniting conversations.

Tsherin Sherpa: Different Worlds presents the captivating artworks of Tsherin Sherpa, a globally renowned contemporary artist. Born in Kathmandu, Nepal, Tsherin Sherpa emigrated to the San Francisco Bay Area in 1998. The artist’s work is grounded in his personal experiences within the Himalayan Diaspora and his rigorous training as a thangka painter (traditional Buddhist art). Upon relocating to the United States, Sherpa encountered new artistic influences, which led him to develop a distinctive artistic practice that seamlessly blends his traditional upbringing with contemporary perspectives.

In Different Worlds, Sherpa demonstrates remarkable technique, attention to detail, and ability to bridge Eastern and Western aesthetics in a series of mixed media works that are both serene/meditative and playful/provocative. The intricate compositions explore themes such as spirituality, the interconnectedness of cultures, and the artist’s relationship with ancient wisdom and pop cultural references.

The exhibition will feature over a dozen works by the artist, including large-scale paintings, works on paper, and hand-woven Nepali rugs characterized by vibrant colors, elements of gold leaf, and meticulous detail. Many of the works incorporate symbolic imagery such as deities, archetypal figures, and mythological narratives inviting viewers to contemplate universal aspects of existence while celebrating cultural diversity. In Untitled (2017), the featured exhibition image, Sherpa invites us to explore opposing and parallel forces. The composition unfolds with a harmonious interplay of forms, depicting two worlds existing side by side, each possessing a unique essence. The symbolic imagery throughout the painting invites viewers to reflect on the interconnectedness of disparate realities and the unseen connections that bind us all.

"We are honored to present Tsherin Sherpa: Different Worlds at the Monterey Museum of Art," said Corey Madden, Executive Director. "Sherpa's art is a testament to the power of artistic exploration and cultural dialogue. We believe this exhibition will inspire our visitors and foster a deeper understanding of the interplay between tradition and contemporary art forms."

Tsherin Sherpa: Different Worlds celebrates cultural diversity, artistic ingenuity, and the power of cross-cultural dialogue. The Monterey Museum of Art invites art enthusiasts, culture seekers, and individuals with a curious spirit to embark on this transformative artistic experience.

Tsherin Sherpa explores the intersections of cultural heritage, personal experiences, and global influences through his art, creating a visual language that resonates with audiences worldwide. Sherpa has exhibited across the United States, Europe, and Asia—including representing Nepal in its inaugural participation at the Venice Biennale in 2022. He has also been part of Yokohama Triennale (2020); Yinchuan Biennale (2018); Kathmandu Triennale (2017); Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art, Brisbane (2015-16); and Dhaka Art Summit (2014). In 2023, Tsherin Sherpa was honored with the Asia Arts Gamer Changer Award by the Asia Society for his significant contribution to contemporary art.

Tsherin Sherpa's work is included in private collections around the world, as well as in the collections of Victoria & Albert Museum, London; Rubin Museum of Art, New York; Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art, Australia; Asian Art Museum, San Francisco; Virginia Museum of Fine Arts; World Museum, Liverpool; Samdani Art Foundation, Dhaka and Uli Sigg Collection. In February 2022, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts presented the artist's first museum mid-career retrospective, Spirits, which traveled on to the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, MA, and will open at the Asia Society in Houston in September 2023.

The artist currently splits his time between Nepal and Northern California.

Monterey Museum of Art
Tsherin Sherpa: Different Worlds
September 7th, 2023 - November 26th, 2023