Why I love Nepal - Dog Signs on Gates!

 

This gorgeous Beware of Dog signboard was found while wandering throughout the back alleys of Kathmandu.   It is a perfect example of what I love about Nepal Dog Art and is typical of the inspiration for my Fair Trade Art project. 

 
Just around the corner was a completely different interpretation of a Danger Dog.

 
This wall was under reconstruction and they felt the need to put up a temporary sign.  

 
This artist must live nearby, as there are two different versions of the same (quite stylized) dog.   Horn Dog!

 
I can see why this artist is so popular.   Teeth, tongue, horns - this signboard has it all.

 
Beware of Beagle!   Who would have thought...   This lovely signboard is on its last legs and obviously not been respected what with those streaks of paint and all, but the patina is beautiful.   

 
Just around the corner from the Everest Kennel Club, the signboard in green is a stenciled sign that is replacing the older more individual and quirky hand-painted versions all throughout Nepal.    I would guess that the one beneath (in red) is an attempt by a young signboard artist to give the customers what they want, but still something different.  The business of Signboard Art in Nepal is usually passed down from father to son and the art can be a communal effort.   I think a young artist is practicing here.   I have often come by and seen one artist finishing anothers work.

 
Another example of a breed specific Beware of Dog signboard from Nepal - a Dalmation!

 
A green backed signboard.

These are all from one day's walk through the streets of Kathmandu in November 2009.   You have to go farther and farther afield to find these beauties.   Most of the new housing that has sprung up since the Civil War started in 1996 has the stenciled version from the Everest Kennel Club.   Though I do come across obviously new beware of dog signs.

I started the Nepal Art Dog project in 2007, to help continue the tradition of these wonderful works.   The signboard art industry in Nepal is quickly changing from hand-painted art on metal into mass-produced digital (dare I say soulless?) signage on plastic.    

I have commissioned over 1400 pieces to date from 58 different artists' studios.  

Please contact me at ampage1@gmail.com with any questions or comments, or to commission a piece.   Each commission is given to 3 artists, giving you a choice of 3 pieces and giving 3 people work.   I do not accept payment until you like one of the signboards, but the artists are all paid up front.  

You can also go to my website at NepalDog.com or see some of what is currently available at NepalDog's YouTube Channel.

Comments

[dog gates]

This gorgeous Beware of Dog signboard was found while wandering throughout the back alleys of Kathmandu. It is a perfect example of what I love about Nepal Dog Art and is typical of the inspiration for my Fair Trade Art project.

[dog gates]

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