“Padma Crying” Artworks on display at Garden Gallery

A daylong art camp titled ‘Padma Crying’ organised by Gallery Cosmos was held recently on the banks of the River Padma in Manikganj. Sixteen most renowned Bangladeshi artists drew inspiration from the surroundings to depict the state the great river has fallen into as a result of the phenomenon of climate change and human activity over years. Paintings from the workshop are now on display at Garden Gallery, Baridhara.
The workshop particularly focused on watercolour. The medium creates serene and soothing images. When a artist works with this medium, (s)he has a certain liberty. Painters who prefer landscapes and nature, admire this medium. Watercolour enables an artist to work fast and offers a quick impact. The medium also offers a romantic and imposing view.
Alokesh Ghosh, Hamiduzzaman Khan, Ranjit Das and Samiran Chowdhury are distinguished watercolourists in our country. Their participation gives the exhibition a special distinction.
From the onset of his career, Alokesh Ghosh has highlighted the pastoral beauty; green horizon, riverine splendor, forests, paddy fields and boats of Bangladesh.
Ranjit Das usually works on large canvases, which is apt for his larger than life themes and compositions. His works are true reflections of our rural and semi-urban issues. His watercolours are more clear and simple composition than his paintings. His watercolours carry a limited object. Das’ watercolours are clear and simple. His work on display at the exhibition depicts two villages from a distance, where space is a very dominant feature.
Samiran Chowdhury is one of the participating artists. In recent times, he has changed his style. His works are now engrossed with pure forms and compositions. In his student days, he was known for his watercolour techniques. Eventually he turned to pure realism. At the exhibition, his work depicts a small river flowing through a village. Subdued colours and perception of the subject makes the image remarkable.
Biren Shome’s impressionistic landscape at the exhibition is picturesque. The image synchronises the sky and water — created with mature brushstrokes of blue and crimson.
Mahmudul Haque is one of the noted non-figurative painters and his compositions look more rigid. At the exhibition, his flat colours and simple brushstrokes do not provide details.
Rokeya Sultana is a busy artist who presence is noticeable at several group exhibitions in Dhaka. The artist prefers opaque watercolours and gouache. At the exhibition, her work frames the struggle and woes of boatmen. Black is the predominant shade.
The exhibition continues till January 8.

Source: The Daily Star