Art for the soul

While one can think that art is only for professionals willing to make it big with their numerous masterpieces, Madiha Athar Khan, Nuzhat Minhaz and Ayesha Jahan set out to show people that art can just be a fun and relaxing way to soothe one's frayed nerves at the end of a difficult day. The hustle-bustle of a busy city life can often take a toll on people as one is pushed to their limits almost everywhere, be it at work, home or even social obligations. Creating a playful atmosphere at their first-ever event, the organisers of 'Art for the Soul' were indeed thrilled at the massive response from art lovers around the city. 

The event, which was held at Moar in Banani, consisted of artwork by the three amateur artists, each of whom specialise in different fields. While Madiha has always been a fluid art enthusiast, experimenting with various hues and shades, Ayesha has always incorporated surrealism by photo manipulation in her works along with dark self-portraits and abstract paintings, and Nuzhat's preferred medium is pencil art. However, it was their shared dream of popularising art therapy that secured them a spot at Moar Grand Launch Week.   

The event not only showcased their works, but also provided a platform for art enthusiasts to try out new techniques such as marble art and fluid art. For marble art, one has to put shaving cream and add various ink colours on top of the foam. Patterns are then made with a stick and the design is copied onto a piece of paper. Conducted by Nuzhat, the session was held free of cost and left many of the visitors pleasantly surprised with their artwork. 

The fluid art sessions, which cost Tk 300, allowed people to try out their own ideas or even follow instructions given by Madiha, who had plenty of her abstract arts at the exhibition to give ideas to the learners. People got to choose three acrylic colours and then, with swirling techniques, create interesting patterns on the canvas, which they got to take home once it dried. While the amused amateurs played with colours, the satisfied trio hoped that people would try this at home with friends and family and enjoy just as much! 

Since the trio is just starting their journey as artists, there is no doubt that they have a long way to go in their respective fields both in terms of incorporating new skills and honing their current ones. What set the exhibition apart was the interactive session that allowed visitors to not only learn but also talk to the artists themselves regarding their work. The trio plans on hosting more events and continue to inspire and guide others through art.

By Adiba Mahbub Proma