The Mru way of life on canvas

Paintings by Kanak Chanpa Chakma.

After a long hiatus, noted artist Kanak Chanpa Chakma is holding a solo painting exhibition. The exhibition, titled “Dreams-Sowing”, will open at Gallery Chitrak in Dhanmondi, Dhaka on January 28, and will continue till February 12. Her last solo art show was held at Bengal Gallery in 2005. The USP of Kanak Chanpa's paintings is an in-depth observation of the indigenous lifestyle in Chittagong Hill Tracts.
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Dipu Moni, is set to inaugurate the exhibition as chief guest. Singyong MRO, writer and social worker, will be present as special guest. Artist Qayyum Chowdhury will preside over the opening ceremony.
At the exhibition, Kanak Chanpa's paintings on display will highlight the Mru community. Over the last three years, the artist has frequently visited Mru settlements in Bandarban, Thimphu and Thanchi.
“I had an opportunity to observe their way of life, and I found it incredibly interesting. The Mru way of life is quite different from that of other indigenous communities. Mrus maintain an isolated and quiet life. They appreciate and enjoy the gifts of nature -- hills, forest, rivers, flora and fauna. The community observes several festivals throughout the year and they have many interesting customs and rituals. I have tried to highlight these in my paintings. This is almost a method of documentation for me,” said Kanak Chanpa.
Most of the paintings depict the lush green and untainted ambiance of the Hill Tracts, Mru homes and lifestyle. Kanak Chanpa said, “Mrus prefer to live on top of hills. They live in large and thatched roof cottages. They are very clean, intelligent and aware of their surrounding. They usually don't wear shirts or tops, and adorn themselves with wild flowers; hair is usually done in top knots.”
Mrus love music, as depicted in some of Kanak Chanpa's paintings. Young men are seen playing bamboo flutes and mouth organs. The artist said, “Music is their passion. Music flows in their blood. Mrus sing all day -- while cooking, farming and caring for their children.”