Biki Balami

I am a graphic designer, front-end developer, and artist from the vibrant city of Kathmandu, Nepal. My journey is a unique blend of mastering Graphic Design and Web Development, coupled with a passionate commitment to bringing the traditional arts of my homeland into the contemporary world. My aspirations extend far beyond mere career ambitions; I feel a profound connection to the ancient arts of Nepal and bear a sense of responsibility for preserving its rich artistic heritage. Looking forward 30 years, I envision myself as not only a master in the realms of both digital and ancient arts but also as a key figure in the cultural preservation of my nation. Additionally, I am devoted to continuing my practice in oil painting, an art form that fuels my creativity and provides a grounding influence in my life.

My artistic journey commenced in a modest school in Kathmandu, dedicated to offering quality education to those less fortunate. Our school enjoyed the support of global sponsors, allies of our principal, who shared a vision of bringing global knowledge to the smaller communities of Nepal. It was one of these sponsors who gifted us art supplies when I was a tender age of seven. Among these were a set of watercolors and coloring books. I distinctly remember crafting my first artwork, an underwater scene teeming with vibrant fishes and a scuba diver. This early exposure marked the beginning of my artistic path. My uncle, a skilled artist himself, recognized my budding talent and took it upon himself to mentor me. He imparted fundamental art lessons, emphasizing repetition and the mastery of simple shapes – lessons that resonated deeply and shaped my approach to both art and life.

During my middle school years, pencil drawing became my sanctuary, a simple yet expressive medium that allowed me to channel my creativity. This phase of my artistic journey was heavily influenced by popular culture, particularly the world of comic book heroes. I dedicated countless hours to drawing superheroes, sharing my creations on social media platforms like Amino, where I garnered a modest but engaged following. This period, while fulfilling in many ways, inadvertently became a constraint to my artistic growth, as I found myself confined within the comfortable bubble of familiar styles. A pivotal moment came during a local art competition centered around Nepal’s ‘Tihar’ festival. My entry, technically proficient but lacking in emotional depth, was overshadowed by a piece that conveyed profound emotional narratives. This experience was a stark wake-up call, teaching me that the essence of art transcends mere technical execution; it’s about conveying deeper emotions and narratives.

Following this revelation, I temporarily distanced myself from art, turning my attention towards science and technology. However, this detour proved to be an expansion of my artistic perspective rather than a departure. My growing interest in computer science unknowingly laid the groundwork for my future endeavors in graphic design and web development. It was a period of introspection and growth, where I learned to view art from a multifaceted perspective. My return to the art world was marked by a conscious decision to enroll in Temple University Japan Campus. This pivotal decision to major in art signified a new chapter in my life, transitioning from a self-taught artist reliant solely on instinct to a formally educated student, delving into the depths and nuances of artistic discipline.

The rich cultural heritage of Nepal has played a significant role in shaping my artistic vision. The intricate wood carvings, pottery, Thangka paintings, and the traditional architecture of Kathmandu, my childhood home, resonate deeply within me. Every time I encounter these ancient art forms, I am reminded of my roots and feel a profound sense of connection. These centuries-old practices, with their history and craftsmanship, have instilled in me a deep respect and a guiding force, fueling my inspiration to preserve and promote them for future generations.

The skills I have acquired in graphic design and web development are more than just modern tools in my artistic arsenal. My journey through these fields has been one of continuous learning, adaptation, and evolution. From my initial experiments with HTML and CSS to my proficiency in the Adobe Suite and Figma, I have endeavored to remain at the forefront of technological advancements. This journey is not merely about skill acquisition but about understanding how to effectively utilize these tools to serve a larger, more significant purpose.

Today, my work in graphic design and web development is intricately intertwined with my overarching goal to preserve the arts and crafts of Kathmandu. I see myself as a custodian of my cultural heritage, entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that the artistic legacy of Nepal is both celebrated and conserved. This sense of duty extends beyond mere preservation; it encompasses a vision to reimagine and showcase these ancient practices in the modern age. My ambition is to create platforms and initiatives that highlight the beauty and significance of Nepalese art, making it accessible and appreciated by a global audience.

The path I have chosen is undeniably challenging. Preserving and promoting a culture’s artistic heritage is a monumental task, demanding not just artistic skill and technical prowess but also a deep understanding of history, politics, and economics. My ambition to pursue higher education, possibly leading to a PhD in Art History of Nepal, is driven by a recognition of the need to be thoroughly equipped to tackle these challenges. I believe that a comprehensive understanding of the socio-political context of Nepalese art is crucial for effective advocacy and preservation efforts.

In conclusion, my artistic journey is an ongoing narrative of exploration, learning, and meaningful contribution. It is a delicate balance between honoring tradition and embracing innovation. As I move forward, my vision is to create art that embodies the soul of Nepal – art that not only tells our history and aspirations but also resonates with a global audience. My dedication to this journey is unwavering and driven by a passion to see Nepalese art gain the global recognition it rightfully deserves. I am resolutely committed to mastering the realm of Digital Art while preserving and elevating the world of ancient Nepalese art.