Entertainment Desk:
Popular art galleries of the country including, Bengal Shilpalay, Drik, Dwip Gallery and Kalakendra have resumed their art exhibitions. All the galleries were closed during the recent anti-discrimination student movement and few days after the fall of Sheikh Hasina government.
Bengal Shilpalay has reopened with the exhibition “Monon Khonon” by artist Wakilur Rahman. The solo exhibition will continue till 14 September while Dwip Gallery resumed Kazi Monir’s solo exhibition “Akoitab” from 18 August.
Kalakendra resumed with Javed Jalil’s solo exhibition titled “Synthetic Reality” after the curfew was withdrawn.
On the other hand, cartoon exhibition titled “Rebellion in Cartoons” is under way at Drik Gallery. The exhibition will be concluded on 31 August.
Through “Monon Khonon”, Wakilur Rahman has crafted the essence of visual art by making local elements relevant within a global contemporary context.
The people of the delta region, their way of life, philosophy, language, and music – all contribute to creating a distinct evolving culture. In an attempt to map its characteristics, Wakilur Rahman has resorted to local elements. The three main components of his experimentation are the topography of the region, its indigenous materials, innate techniques and understandings. In his quest, the artist has depended on water, clay, boats, and language.
“Monon Khonon” (Unearthing the Archaic) seeks to unravel the complex threads of our material culture, delving into the essence of the spiritual and material embodiment of its people.
Meanwhile, Kazi Monir’s “Akoitob” will continue till 30 August. This exhibition is a small attempt to bring to the audience some natural scenes (Akoitob).
Before his demise, Kazi Monir became known for his innovative paintings. It was not possible for him to reach larger audience. But those who have seen the works of the artist have enthralled and relishing the prototype in their own modern sophistication. This exhibition is just a small celebration of Kazi Monir’s innovative power.
Alliance Française de Dhaka, Galleri Kaya and Gallery the Illusions, among others, also have announced their upcoming exhibitions.