Liberation War on canvas

(Clock-wise from top-left) Paintings by Ranjit Das, Alakesh Ghosh, Biren Shome and Jamal Ahmed featured at the exhibition.

Liberation War is a glorious part of the Bangladeshi history. The very existence of the nation is rooted here. Our pain and anguish; pleasure and joy are very much connected with the Liberation War. Since its inception, the Liberation War Museum has been working to uphold the history of Bangladesh, and generate awareness in various aspects of the war. For the last three years, Channel i and Gallery Chitrak have been jointly organising a fundraising art camp. Noted painters have always demonstrated their support with participation. Liberation War Museum has arranged an exhibition of artworks from last three years' art camps at Saju Art Gallery, Gulshan-2, in the city.
On display are works that delve deep into a nation's pain, torment and yearning for freedom.
Samarjit Roy Chowdhury's work shows some freedom fighters on a boat. The lower part of the canvas features the eternal portrait of a mother and child. Chowdhury's colours are vibrant and apt to portray the picturesque rural areas of Bangladesh.
Hashem Khan is well recognised for his works on the theme of Liberation War. His figures and colours are very bold and animated. His canvas on display at the exhibition features handprints in red and black. The upper portion of the painting shows a group of valiant warriors, with the Bangladeshi national flag, charging the enemies.
Jamal Ahmed, the realist painter, is well known for his use of soothing colours as well as portrayal of contemplating figures. The movements of his figures usually denote aesthetic elements. In his work, a group of freedom fighters are seen crossing a shallow ditch, undaunted by enemy fire. A tall palm tree, clearly visible in the background, refers to unflinching spirits.
Abdul Mannan prefers to go into details with his striking images, while his figures and luminous colours are thought provoking. In his painting, freedom fighters are seen celebrating the victory. The toils of struggle, the power of drive and the joy of accomplishment pulsate throughout his work.
Alakesh Gosh is a veteran water colourist and his works are usually tranquil. Most of his paintings are based on scenic beauty, rural Bengal and portraits of historical personalities. At the exhibition, his canvas (acrylic) is adorned with birds. The birds, free in nature, are soaring high in the sky. A crimson sun blazes in the middle of the canvas.
Biren Shome's work is powerful not only because of his bold use of colours and mastery over portraying shadows and depth, but also for his unique way of recognising the subjects. At the exhibition, Shome's painting shows a pair's joyous movement with guns. Two pigeons are seen flying across the sky, with the promise of freedom.
Muniruzzaman's work reveals the triumph of a warrior. Free brush strokes make the canvas seem more alive. Azure, red and bright yellow have created an electrifying experience.
Ranjit Das is celebrated for his suggestive lines, diverse forms, vibrant pigments and contemplative themes. He is mainly a figurative painter and his figures usually capture agony and passion. At the exhibition, the plight of freedom fighters is shown with great vividness. Guns and birds are noticeable objects and red has been predominantly used in the piece.
The exhibition ends tomorrow.