Platforms: Thank you for joining us today. Could you please share with our audience the mission behind Platforms and what drives your passion for showcasing the diverse art happening in Bangladesh

Rayana Hossain: The mission behind Platforms is to provide a global platform for the world to experience the incredible and diverse art scene that is flourishing in Bangladesh. Our aim is to break barriers and showcase how vernacular art and global artistic expressions can come together harmoniously. We want to celebrate the richness and uniqueness of our local art while also fostering connections and appreciation for art on a global scale. It is this passion for highlighting the dynamic blend of vernacular and global art that truly drives us.

Platforms: That sounds fascinating! How do you envision Platforms showcasing this convergence between vernacular and global art? What can art enthusiasts expect from the platform?

Rayana Hossain: Platforms is designed as a space where art enthusiasts can explore and experience the vibrant tapestry of artistic expressions from Bangladesh. Through our platform, we will feature a diverse range of artists, from emerging talents to seasoned veterans, showcasing their work in various forms and mediums. Art enthusiasts can expect a curated selection of artworks that reflect the fusion of our rich vernacular traditions with global influences. We will provide a platform for artists to share their stories, perspectives, and creative journeys, bridging the gap between local and global art scenes.

Platforms: Taking artists from Bangladesh onto the global stage is a significant part of Platforms' mission. How can the platform facilitate this journey for the artists?

Rayana Hossain: 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. Through our platform, we will showcase their work to a worldwide audience, connecting them with art enthusiasts, collectors, and curators from different parts of the globe. Additionally, we will actively engage in promoting and marketing the artists, ensuring that their talent reaches the right audiences. By taking our artists on a global stage, we aim to open doors for collaborations, exhibitions, and opportunities that can further their artistic careers.

Platforms: Thank you, Rayana Hossain, for sharing your vision for Platforms. It's inspiring to see how the platform is bringing together diverse art and voices from Bangladesh and taking them onto the global stage. We look forward to witnessing the positive impact it will have on the art world.

Rayana Hossain: Thank you for having me. I'm excited about the journey ahead and the transformative power of art that Platforms will showcase. Together, let's celebrate the diverse art of Bangladesh and create a platform where every artist's voice is heard and appreciated on a global scale.

Introduction:

Quamrul Hassan, a renowned artist, left an indelible mark on the world of art with his extraordinary talent and profound vision. Born in 1921 in Bardhaman, West Bengal, India, Hassan's paintings not only captivate the eye but also delve deep into the socio-political fabric of his homeland. His works reflect a seamless fusion of traditional and contemporary elements, allowing viewers to witness the essence of Bengal through his artistic lens.

A Journey through Colorful Canvases:

Hassan's paintings vividly portray the diverse facets of Bengal, ranging from idyllic rural landscapes to the harsh realities of a politically corrupt society. Through his masterful brushstrokes, he skillfully captures the vibrant colors and intricate details that bring his subjects to life.

In his depictions of rural Bengal, Hassan's love for his homeland shines through. His canvas becomes a portal, transporting viewers to lush green fields, serene rivers, and quaint villages. He skillfully utilizes basic colors, allowing each hue to breathe life into the scenes. The simplicity of his palette resonates with the essence of rural life, celebrating the rustic beauty of Bengal.

However, Hassan's artistic prowess extends beyond the serene. With a sharp political awareness, he fearlessly exposes the corruption and degradation that plagued his society. Through his powerful paintings, he sheds light on the socio-political issues that afflicted Bengal, serving as a catalyst for change and inspiring viewers to question the status quo.

The Unique Blend of Pata Painting Techniques and Folk Motifs:

One of Hassan's notable achievements is his ability to seamlessly merge traditional pata painting techniques with contemporary artistic expressions. Pata painting, a traditional art form of Bengal, involves intricate brushwork and the use of vibrant colors. Hassan's deep appreciation for this form of art led him to incorporate its essence into his own works.

Folk motifs, another integral aspect of Hassan's paintings, add a touch of cultural heritage to his creations. By intertwining folk elements with his modern artistic paradigm, he not only pays homage to Bengal's rich artistic legacy but also breathes new life into traditional motifs.

A Political Voice through Fierce Cartoons:

Hassan's artistic journey is not limited to canvas alone. His fierce political cartoons resonate with the masses, inspiring civil movements and demonstrations. During the Liberation War of 1971, his poignant cartoons became a source of motivation, fueling the spirit of freedom fighters and capturing the essence of the struggle for independence.

Two of Hassan's works have etched themselves into the annals of Bangladesh's political history. His portrayal of Yahya Khan, the Pakistani president responsible for the genocide in Bangladesh, stands as a powerful condemnation of oppression. Additionally, his satirical depiction of the then dictator of Bangladesh, Hossain Mohammad Ershad, shortly before his death, showcases his boldness in challenging authority.

Recognition and Legacy:

Quamrul Hassan's artistic brilliance was acknowledged through numerous accolades. He was awarded the President's Gold Medal in 1965, the Comilla Foundation Gold Medal in 1982, and the prestigious Independence Day Award in 1979, among others. His contributions also extend beyond the realm of art, as he played a pivotal role in establishing institutions such as the Government College of Arts and Crafts and the Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries.

Today, Hassan's legacy lives on through his designs of national emblems, including the state monogram of Bangladesh, Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation, Bangladesh Bank, and Biman Bangladesh Airlines. These emblematic creations stand as a testament to his lasting impact on his homeland.

Quamrul Hassan's paintings transcend the boundaries of time and space, offering a glimpse into the soul of Bengal. With his mastery of color, fusion of traditional and contemporary elements, and powerful political voice, he emerges as an artist whose legacy goes beyond artistry. His works continue to inspire and challenge us, urging us to reflect on our society, embrace our heritage, and strive for a better future. Quamrul Hassan remains an icon, an artistic visionary, and an embodiment of the spirit of Bengal.

Platforms' inaugural event, held on October 13th  at Aloki, celebrated Bangladesh's vibrant art scene with artworks of over 25 artists, including Nisar Hossain, Mohammad Iqbal, Farida Zaman, and renowned painter Zainul Abedin’s. The event also highlighted emerging talents like Sumon Wahed, Sulekha Chowdhury, and Soma Surovi Jannat, embodying Platforms' goal of nurturing creativity and innovation in Bangladesh's art scene.

Delve into the wellspring of inspiration with Nisar Hossain, whose journey is deeply rooted in the echoes of our nation's liberation war. In our exclusive Q&A video, Nisar shares the profound sources of his motivation, which can be traced back to his family's involvement in the historic language movement of 1952.

Take a peek into the story behind Mohammad Eunus's stunning abstract masterpieces.

My all time favorite artist is Paul Gauguin because he went to Tahiti island and worked with the indigenous tribe. When I enrolled in Charukola I was very inspired by Paul Gauguin. I was determined that after I finish my studies and start my artistic career, Paul Gauguin’s work will be very helpful for my artistic expression. Paul Gauguin’s work have been very influential in my professional life. I am very grateful for him because he helped me to shape my way to the style that I am known for today which is now Kanak Chanpa style and I was very inspired by Paul Gauguin’s work.

People used to say there are similarities between my work and Paul Gauguin’s work which has helped me during that time to create my own style.

The 'Zainul Utsab 2023' held at the Faculty of Fine Art (FFA) of Dhaka University was a vibrant commemoration of the 109th birth anniversary of Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin. The three day-event, inaugurated by DU Vice-Chancellor Prof ASM Maksud, celebrated the artistic legacy of Zainul Abedin, attracting a diverse audience of art enthusiasts, students, and distinguished personalities.

Zainul Abedin, renowned for his powerful sketches during the Bengal famine of 1943, played a crucial role in founding the FFA at Dhaka University. The Faculty of Fine Arts at Dhaka University, founded by Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin, has produced many notable artists and plays a crucial role in shaping the cultural and artistic landscape of the country. It continues to embody the unique identity of Bengali art and culture, as highlighted by the DU Vice-Chancellor in his speech.

Prof Abdus Satter and artist Kazi Gias Uddin received the 'Zainul Sammanna-2023' for their outstanding contributions to art education and practice. Additionally, Supriya Kumar Ghosh, a student from the Faculty of Fine Arts, was honoured with the 'Zainul Swarna Padak' award for presenting the most outstanding artwork at the Annual Art Exhibition. Following the awards ceremony, ‘Zainul Mela’ was officially launched at the FFA.

The program was chaired by Prof. Nisar Hossain, the dean of the Fine Art faculty, with speakers including Emeritus Prof. Abul Hashem Khan, Emeritus Prof. Rafiqun Nabi, Engineer Moinul Abedin (son of Shilpacharya), Kazi Nurul Islam (Director of Bangladesh Folk and Crafts Foundation), and Mir Nawat Ali (CMO of BKash), among others.

The success and reach of 'Zainul Utsab 2023' were further amplified through a strategic partnership with Platforms, serving as the digital partner for the event. Platforms played a crucial role in extending the festival's visibility to a wider audience through various online channels. This collaboration bridged the physical and digital realms, ensuring that the 'Zainul Utsab 2023' resonated beyond the venue, reaching art enthusiasts, students, and admirers of Zainul Abedin's work worldwide.

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