Arts Center opens exhibit of watercolor sketches

By Travis Fischer, tkfischer@charlescitypress.com

A glimpse of Nepal can be viewed at the Charles City Arts Center this month as its new featured exhibit showcases “Echoes of Kathmandu Valley” by artist Riva Nayaju.

The exhibit features 100 watercolor sketches of traditional architecture of Nayaju’s homeland Kathmandu Valley area.

“I was just taking pictures and really wanted to draw them,” said Nayaju. “I really love the architecture there. Each piece is a small piece of memory for me.”

An architect and graphic designer that teaches at the University of Northern Iowa, spent much of the last year sketching out and coloring her pieces day after day. This is the first time they’ve been put up for public display.

“Echoes of Kathmandu Valley” will be up for six weeks rather than the traditional four, being available for viewing at the Arts Center through June 14.

Both friends and colleagues from Cedar Falls along with local art fans flocked to the Arts Center on Friday to view the colorful pieces and talk with Nayaju about their creation.

“I am so glad to see this turnout,” said Nayaju. “I’m really, really happy.”