Danger Dogs from Nepal – Folk Art from the Himalayas

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Govinda Kalikote

Govinda Kalikote uses reflective tape for his lettering, so the two above on the left and

middle appear red in person but orange in the photos. Very practical for an outdoor

‘Beware of Dog’ sign.

Govinda likes to paint on Bodhi tree leaves, a Nepali tradition usually reserved for

Buddha, who discovered enlightenment under a Bodhi tree. But Govinda surprised me

with a portrait of Chopper, an Australian Shepherd, on a Bodhi leaf. Guess that’s not

sacrilegious. Hope not, anyway.

Govinda paints a lot for his own enjoyment apparently. I’m not sure what the Stupa with

the red tears below means. His storefront is lined with his art, both on canvas and on

Bodhi leaves.

Bottom right is his wife signing for him in his absence. That red Sharpie sure comes in

handy. I’ve also seen Govinda painting mudflaps for trucks.