Staff Art Pick of the Month: A Portrait of Nepal

Jeremy McMahan has led countless tours of the Rubin Museum and is a recognizable face for Museum visitors and staff alike. Read below to find out about his favorite art object currently on display in the Rubin’s galleries.

What’s your name and title at the Museum?

My name is Jeremy McMahan and I’m the Interpretation and Engagement Coordinator—which means I do many different things at the Museum! I lead tours, train other docents, create content for programs and communications—and last but not least—sell admission and program tickets at the front desk.

Which art object did you select and why?

I chose an incredible painting of the Rato Machhendranath Temple in Kathmandu Nepal from our latest exhibition, Nepalese Seasons: Rain and Ritual.

Being a student of Himalayan cultures, I spent a lot of time living in that part of the world, particular Kathmandu. Everything about this painting reminds me of the time I spent there. The painting beautifully demonstrates the pagoda style architecture that started in Nepal and then spread all over Asia. The prominence of the color red reminds me of the vermilion paste that stains many of the sculptures and holy objects.

What do you hope visitors take away from an encounter with this object?

I hope it inspires visitors to learn more about the unique cultural heritage of Nepal and how its artistic legacy influenced not just the art of the Himalayas, but of wider Asia as well.

See the painting of the Rato Macchendranath Temple for yourself in Nepalese Seasons: Rain and Ritual.