Choukaath: Exploring a new dimension of the canvas

A black curtain separates a small part of the gallery space in Safiuddin Shilpalay. It almost looks uninviting, not even offering a sliver of a glimpse at what lies beyond. But perhaps a part of the viewer always remains curious, evoking a desire to explore the unknown, regardless of whether it is off-limits.

When you draw the curtain, you will immediately be transported back in time to a simpler age. What lies beyond the curtain are the drawings of a child, displayed over a little makeshift tent. 

The structure is reminiscent of the makeshift houses we would make as kids. It did not matter how childish the outside world deemed us—we were the homemakers, breadwinners, and the head of the house of those small homes. 

It felt like I had walked through a portal.

'Choukaath', an exhibition comprising the works of four artists, is based on the concept of portals. The artists wanted to create a space—or a portal—which would transport visitors to a creative realm where anything, and any expression, is possible.

The works of artists Astha Anindita, Mantaqa Tahiyat, Kazi Sadida Bushra, and Ramisa Zara Rouf are displayed in Safiuddin Shilpalay until 6 May. The exhibition further explores different concepts such as spirituality, mental health, and more through different mediums such as installations, printmaking, paintings, and so on. 

While all four artists have vastly different art styles, they are united in the fact that they are all pupils of veteran artist Ripon Kumar Das.

"Sir has been extremely great with us, he taught us everything we know. Aside from concepts, he also encourages putting a lot of thought into each piece," shared artist Tahiyat. 

The four walls were divided by style rather than theme or artist. Upon entering, you are greeted by Ramisa's printmaking works. However, Bushra's 'The Walk After' will most likely stay with you for a while. 

The painting portrays three workers, and the subject of the painting shows a man wiping his face, probably after a long day's work. The piece is made with splotches and yet manages to be very detailed. The colour palette, combined with the faint smile playing on the man's lip, exudes a sense of liveliness and joy. 

The artist emphasises how her expressions as an artist are rooted in the art style rather than the paintings themselves. 

"I intentionally use a very detailed art style, it is an expression of my anxiety. At times, my subjects are happy, as that is the state of mind I aspire to have. Other times, the subjects embody that very anxiety."

The growing artists' experimental style is also palpable. In the installation section, Bushra experiments with an anaglyph using red and blue lights to create a shifting image that changes right before your eyes.

For Tahiyat, on the other hand, the concept of the 'portal' translates to spirituality. In her 'Chakra' series, her works embody the relationships between the body and the mind. 

"Our organs hold and store emotions and help us process them. For example, the root chakra is situated at the base of the spine. Even if you're physically hurt, the pain will impact your root chakra, which is your confidence and security," shared Tahiyat. 
 
With all these different styles in front of you, one would expect the experience to feel chaotic but all the pieces are tied together with a frame that stands right in the middle of the gallery. A pair of shoes lies at its centre, symbolising the path towards this makeshift portal. 

'Choukaath' and the works of the four talented rising artists end up saying one thing loud and clear–a new generation of artists has a story to tell, and the story will most likely captivate you. 

TBS Picks 

Silence by Kazi Sadida Bushra
Medium: Acrylic on canvas

The painting depicts a person with a fabric over their face. In the intricate details, you can tell that the subject's eyes and mouth are closed. The line art not only instils a nervous feeling but also adds to the movement and flow of the fabric. The artist describes how her anxiety, at times, silences her, and this feeling inspired the painting. 

Concealed by Mantaqa Tahiyat
Medium: Oil on canvas

The jester, the subject of the painting, seems out of his element. Instead of depicting the jester playing tricks, he sits in a chair alone, as if consumed by the isolation. Surrounding him are others with the same expression of loneliness. The artist shares how everyone, in their own way, struggles with loneliness.

Obscure by Astha Anindita
Medium: Watercolour on paper

The image seems to be an exploration of the bond between humans and nature. The image paints a picture of the body of a tree surrounded by the brown and green hues of nature. However, the tree is in the shape of a human, seeming as if its arms are crossed. 

Untitled by Ramisa Zara Rouf
Medium: Mixed media on paper

A feminine gaze, flowers, and eyes are some of the many subjects that comprise the mixed media collage. According to Rouf, the piece was inspired by artist Dilara Begum and explores misogyny, gender, and the female body.