Women playing bhusya.

After months of construction, the Somerville Museum is thrilled to open its doors once again where visitors will be greeted at the entrances with murals by the Somerville Nepali artist, Imagine, and a new exhibition highlighting Nepal, “The Art of the Festival’ (January 16 – March 29). A Re-opening Reception and celebration takes place Thursday, January 16, 6 – 8 p.m.

Bruce McCoy Owens spent four decades learning from celebrants and taking photographs of Kathmandu’s largest festival celebrated by diverse ethnic groups in the valley, Buddhist and Hindu alike. Each of these groups calls the honored deity by a different name with a different interpretation, but all participate and people of all ages play different roles in preparation according to their skills and social position.

In addition to Owens’ photographs, items from popular culture and works by Nepalese artists show how much this festival has captured the public imagination. This unique festival does not translate to life in the United States, but Somerville’s substantial Nepali community participates in many local festivals throughout the year and have contributed their own photographs to the exhibition along with memories and reflections on the importance these occasions hold.

Welcoming Bungadya.

A free concert adds to all the festivity.  “Somerville Jatra (festival)”: the Ultimate Nepalese Folk Rock Experience featuring The MUSS and Friends will take place on Sunday, February 9, at 4 p.m. at the Arts at the Armory.  Museum goers can go into further depth at a Curator Talk with Bruce Owens on Saturday, March 1, at 11 a.m.  Check the website at somervillemuseum.org for information about additional events.

The Somerville Museum’s mission is to be the City of Somerville’s mirror, playing a central role in preserving the past, reflecting the present, and helping to shape the future of this diverse urban community of 81,000. Through its innovative programming, the Museum seeks to engage our audience in an on-going dialogue with local artists, scholars, and educators with the larger aim of fostering cultural education and understanding.

Museum admission fees apply: Members free. $8 non-members, $5 seniors and students. Advanced tickets available at Somervillemuseum.org upcoming events. Museum hours are Thursdays 2-7pm, Fridays 2-5pm, and Saturdays 12-5pm. The Somerville Museum is located at 1 Westwood Road (corner of Central Street)  and is fully accessible. Free Parking is available for the January 16th reception at the Dormition of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church at 29 Central Street. The museum is also accessible by the Somerville Community Bike Path or public transportation. For more information and or to schedule a group tour, contact Stephanie Marlin-Curiel stephanie@somervillemuseum.org or (617) 666-9819.

Exhibition:
“The Art of the Festival”
Dates: January 16 – March 29, 2025
Location: Somerville Museum, 1 Westwood Road, Somerville, MA

Re-Opening Reception:
Thursday, January 16, 2025
Time: 6-8pm
Location: Somerville Museum

Free Concert:
“Somerville Jatra (festival): The Ultimate Nepalese Folk Rock Experience”
Date: Sunday, February 9, 2025
Time: 4pm
Location: Arts at the Armory, 191 Highland Avenue, Somerville, MA

Curator Talk:
With Bruce Owens
Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025
Time: 11am
Location: Somerville Museum

Museum Hours:
Thursdays: 2-7pm
Fridays: 2-5pm
Saturdays: 12-5pm

Admission:
$8 non-members, $5 members

For additional events and information, visit somervillemuseum.org.