Nepal, June 11 -- Is the human brain hardwired for violence? Why does another war start after one ends? How does one suppress the reptilian side of the mind to foster peace and compassion?

Sages through the ages have grappled with this question. Binod Shrestha seeks answers through his art. He says: "The history of humanity is violent. It is embedded within us. Nepal's history and politics are also replete with violence."

Shrestha's project Silent Bone is exhibiting in galleries across Kathmandu in June and July, and will invite viewers to think about violence and the residue it leaves behind in identity and memory.

Shrestha landed in the US just after 9/11 and was immediately interested in how that act of terrorism shaped the country...