Patan, Jan. 8: A three-day art exhibition celebrating the rich heritage of traditional stone spouts, known as Hitis, is all set to be held in Patan Museum from January 9 to 11.

 The event 'Hiti Art Exhibition' will bring together art, culture, and heritage conservation through the creative expressions of contemporary Nepali artists.

For centuries, Hitis have served as vital sources of water for communities across the Kathmandu Valley. Beyond their practical function, these stone spouts embody profound cultural, historical, and religious significance. However, rapid urbanisation, environmental degradation, and long-term neglect have led to the disappearance of many Hitis, with several others facing serious risk.

E-Arts Nepal, the Rotary Club of Yala, and the Chiva Chaitya Organisation (CCO), in collaboration with local community stakeholders, have launched a heritage preservation initiative focused on the sensitisation, restoration, and revival of Hitis. 

The initiative emphasises youth empowerment and active community engagement to foster awareness, ownership, and collective responsibility toward safeguarding cultural heritage.

The Hiti Art Exhibition features paintings by 20 contemporary Nepali artists, each offering diverse artistic perspectives on the cultural and historical essence of Hitis in the Kathmandu Valley.

Participating artists include Asha Dangol, Bhairaj Maharjan, Bidhata KC, Binod Pradhan, Bishal Maharjan, Erina Tamrakar, Ishan Pariyar, Kripa Tuladhar, Krishna Gopal Shrestha, Krishna Lama, Muna Bhadel, Pradhumma Shrestha, Pradip K. Bajracharya, Pralistha Maharjan, Pramila Bajracharya, Puja Maharjan, Sagar Manandhar, Samjhana Rajbhandari, Shailee Rana, and Shreeju Shahi.