An exhibition in Washington, D.C. will highlight the revival of Subika art, a rare manuscript painting tradition from Manipur. Titled “The Revival of the Forgotten Art of Manipur: An Exhibition of Modern Subika Art,” the show runs from May 9 to 19 at Gallery 16Ten, 1610 Wisconsin Ave NW.

Organized by The Kolorbox in collaboration with the Advanced Research Consortium Library & Archives (ARCLA), the exhibition features over 20 contemporary works by Manipur artist Sapha Yumnam, who reinterprets traditional Subika motifs using modern techniques.

Subika art, an endangered form from Manipur, originated in the 18th and 19th centuries. The manuscripts, created on handmade paper or agarwood bark (“korbek” or puya) and written in Old Meitei script, depict subjects such as astronomy, cosmology, rituals, and divination.

Yumnam, assistant professor of fine arts at Manipur University, holds an MFA and PhD in printmaking. He has published illustrated books on Manipuri mythology and received the State Kala Academy Award in 2006. His work has been shown nationally and internationally.

Curator Wangam Somorjit, ARCLA director, said the exhibition presents Subika as a “full visual language” reflecting layered histories. Priyananda Soubam, co-founder of The Kolorbox, added that the exhibition aims to bring global recognition to a little-known art form.

The opening reception is scheduled for May 9, from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM. The Kolorbox focuses on fostering cultural exchange and collaborations between artists.