Plat—forms: Where Bangladeshi art meets the world

Only if there were a platform where Bangladeshi artists, old timers and young guns alike could come together and showcase their artworks to the rest of the world, could our art be recognised globally. But how to take our art to the world is the question. 

The quick, short answer is through technology, of course, as the whole world unites on the internet now.

So how will Plat—forms help artists to get on board? "Plat—forms is designed as a space where art enthusiasts can explore and experience the artists from Bangladesh. Through our platform, we are featuring a diverse range of artists, from emerging talents to seasoned veterans, showcasing their work in various forms and mediums," replied Rayana Hossain, Plat—forms founder and CEO of Isho.

Through the website, artists can get on board with their curated artwork and put up a price for each. The artworks will sell online and artists will earn from their paintings. Being digital, any individual from any part of the world can buy a painting from Plat—forms. Necessarily, it eliminates the tangible concept of a tangled art gallery, which may not be accessible for many.

Also, the huge collection of artworks from a long list of local artists should be a treat for art lovers. This journey began with 25 artists but as time passes, more will get onboard, expanding the website's horizon.

"We hope Platforms will act as a bridge between the local art scene in Bangladesh and the global audience. We strive to create opportunities for our artists to gain international exposure and recognition," explained Rayana. 

The Plat—forms team actively engages in promoting Bangladeshi artists, ensuring that their talent reaches the right audiences. By taking the artists on a global stage, doors for collaborations and exhibitions open that can further their artistic careers.

On 13 October, Plat—forms lifted curtains on its inaugural event to showcase curated artworks of 25 artists, including Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin, at Aloki Convention Centre through a rather grand exhibition, followed by speeches and live music from some of the best musicians of our times.

"Platforms is a labour of love, dedicated to the art community of Bangladesh.  It provides a platform for artists to thrive and share their talent with the world. Our inaugural event was a true reflection of the artistic richness that defines our culture," said Rayana Hossain, Plat—forms founder and CEO of Isho.

Celebrities, celebrated artists, influencers, socialites – you name it, everybody was there. Plat—forms, a concern of Isho, showcases and sells a wide variety of artwork created by talented artists from around the world, offering curated collections of paintings, sculptures, photographs and other art forms.

The project aims to create a diverse and inclusive space, promoting art's ability to break down barriers and showcase unique perspectives. Plat—forms works closely with artists and experts to ensure the featured artworks are genuine and of the highest quality, building confidence in the artistic community.

At the inaugural event, Rafi Haque's painting 'October 13' was the title piece of the exhibition, denoting the date of the exhibition itself. His other exhibit was the 'Chicago Brown,' both oil on arch paper media. Two paintings, 'Coronavirus 1' and 'Towards Annihilation 2,' both acrylic on canvas were also part of the exhibition.

Other veteran artists on Plat—forms include Abdus Shakoor Shah, Ahmed Shamsudoha, Jamal Uddin Ahmed, Kanak Chanpa, Monirul Islam, Mohammad Eunus, Monjur Rashid, Nasreen Begum, Nisar Hossain, Rafi Haque, Shulekha Chowdhury, Soma Surovi Jannat and others.

Paintings of celebrated artists like Shakoor, Shamsudoha, Jamal Uddin, Kanak, Monirul Islam, Eunus, Rashid, Nasreen, Rafi Haque and Nisar brought a seasoned touch to the very fresh paintings of fresh artists. 

At the end of the Friday event, Mithun Chakra, Coke Studio Bangla's percussionist, along with a saxophonist, tanpura player, bassist and keyboardist, gave a magical performance to the crowd starting with 'O Amar Desher Maati' song.