A window of contemporary art

Gulshan Hossain's work won a Grand prize. Photo: Ridwan Adid Rupon

Asian Art Biennale Bangladesh is the biggest and possibly the most prestigious art events in Asia that Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) has been arranging since 1981. Besides exploring the artistic ideas and creativity of the present day, the biennale emboldens an animating Asia Pacific identity in the realm of world art.

The 16th edition of the biennale is currently on display at the National Art Plaza of BSA. The month-long event began on December 1 amidst enthusiasm, and a promise to give insight into the narratives of contemporary art scenes of this region.

The kaleidoscopic display of artistic endeavours is hosting some 204 artworks by 104 artists from 31 countries of Asia Pacific region. In addition, 228 art pieces by 209 artists of the host country are also on display. Also it has turned into a congregation of artists, critics and observers from different countries of the world. Of the 432 artworks, three have been selected for the grand prize, while another six works bagged the Honourable Mention Award.

The exhibition shows diversity in use of medium and dimension. Photo: Ridwan Adid Rupon

These multifaceted artworks have two distinct features; in the first place they are fresh, innovative and products of a continual change and simultaneously time they are in line with the tradition. The modernistic approach of the new generations of artists and their connection with tradition made their artworks a blend of artistic heritage and contemporary aesthetics.

Art has relation to geographical locations, and no wonder the works of Asian artists reflect the struggles, challenges, emotion and social realities of Asian lives. They deal with the multiplicity of concepts and perspectives that plumb changing realities. The artists assimilate diverse and conflicting tastes, and a surge of new methods and media are conspicuous in their works.

But delight does not always come with disorder, and the same happened to the event. With the infrastructure BSA has, this event could have been given a better treatment, which it undeniably deserves. Sometimes, multimedia installations disrupted due to faulty projection; installations are laid here and there which seems disorganised. Lack of volunteers/exhibition officials who can direct the visitors, no catalogue/brochure and lack of information for media made it a tad disappointment for the visitors expecting a smooth viewing experience. Moreover, there is a lack in the publicity which resulted in a poor number of visitors.

But such large events have great impact  in shaping the  art scenario and setting new trends, apart from enhancing the taste of people for art. It is also platform for artists to exhibit their works beyond the traditional galleries and also a window for the connoisseurs to look through the talents of new generation artists. The current surge in art is a sign that Bangladesh is rising above its clichéd portraiture.

The exhibition remains open till December 31, from 11am-8pm on week days and3pm-8pm on Friday.