Bipasha Hayat is a beloved actress of the 90s. Her performance in 'Aguner Poroshmoni' earned her the National Film Award. She is also a prolific scriptwriter and an amazing painter. Born and brought up in a cultural family, she always had a keen interest in art. Her seventh solo exhibition, 'Prostorkaal', is underway at Gallery Chitrak, Dhanmondi. The Daily Star caught up with Bipasha Hayat to know more about her exhibition, future plans, and more.

What does your art reflect?

My paintings reflect what I have witnessed, experienced, and felt in life. I have painted greats like Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Rabindranath Tagore, and Kazi Nazrul Islam – personalities I truly admire. At the same time, I paint natural elements like flowers and leaves.

When I create something on canvas, I don't merely paint it, I express my thoughts and experiences through my art.

How did you discover the artist in yourself?

All credit goes to my mother. I have always been inspired by her to explore my inner artist. When I was young, I used to have thoughts about how the nature is so colourful, and all the colour combinations and contrasts fascinated me.

We used to reside in a quarter beside Dhakeshwari Temple. It was a place full of beautiful, green sights. Nature has taught me so many things in life. After a few years, we moved to Libya. My parents loved gardening; they grew olives and grapes near our house there.

I feel blessed to be surrounded by the beauty of nature. I also encourage my kids to enjoy the beauty, be it the smell of blossoming flowers or the moon in the evening.

You also write poems. How do you come up with ideas for them?

I used to read the scripts written by my father. After a while, I began reading the works of renowned writers. Syed Shamsul Haque's "Tin Poishar Jochhona" greatly inspired me.

Shahidul Zahir and Mahmudul Haque are also my favourite. Currently, I am reading Greek mythology. Reading is now a part of my daily routine.

Tell us about your time in the USA.

I always keep myself busy with work. After I came to the USA with my children, I explored the natural beauty of the place. The flowers that bloom over the mountains are a delight to witness. My school friends in the USA supported me selflessly. My friend Simi helped me a lot during my solo exhibition there.

Do you miss acting?

I have not resigned from acting. It is just that right now, I want to focus on art. I have some plans for theatre, and I will also return to the screen.