Born as Uttam Prasad Karmacharya in Kathmandu, Nepal
Uttam Nepali
Deceasedउत्तम नेपाली
Also known as Uttam Prasad Karmacharya
Pioneer of abstract art in Nepal and a key figure in establishing formal art education in the country
About
Uttam Nepali was born Uttam Prasad Karmacharya. He trained at the Lucknow College of Arts and Crafts, in India. He then returned to Nepal to become one of the country’s leading modernist painters.
He was a pioneer of abstract art and artistic experimentation, in a scene still dominated by traditional and religious styles. He also played an important role in establishing formal art education in Nepal. Alongside this, he built a parallel career as a writer and actor.
Quick facts
- Born
- 1937-04-30
- Birthplace
- Kathmandu, Nepal
- Profession
- Painter, Writer, Actor
- Nationality
- Nepal
- Status
- Deceased
- Died
- 2021-07-21
Education
Lucknow College of Arts and Crafts
Career & life timeline
- 1937-04-30
- 2021-07-21
Died at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu, at age 84
Achievements
Pioneer of abstract art and artistic experimentation in Nepal
Instrumental in establishing formal art education in Nepal
Last updated: 2026-09-06