Jolokabbo 5: Winter in watercolours

Watercolours, while transparent and seemingly simple at first glance, possess the potential to transform into something delicate and luminous in skilled hands. Far from being straightforward, they can achieve aesthetic sophistication, with their vibrant hues standing out beautifully against the blank white paper.

Stepping into Edge Gallery for the fifth instalment of their 'Jolokabbo' art exhibition series, visitors are greeted by a serene and calming atmosphere. 

Featuring approximately 120 watercolour paintings from 54 different artists, the group exhibition showcases vibrant works that evoke a profound sense of tranquillity and artistic harmony. The exhibition opened its doors for all on 21 December 2024, and it will come to an end on 18 January 2025. 

By winter, when migratory birds flock to safer climates, there were quite a few paintings that captured a flock of birds in flight over serene and turbulent landscapes and seascapes. 

Most of these scenes are evocative of freedom, migration, or even a transient moment in nature. Birds, painted against monochromatic backgrounds with subdued tones, could simply offer a sense of quiet reflection.

Moving away from the theme of migratory birds in winter, there were miscellaneous paintings as well—some telling tales of the subjects within the paintings while some highlighted nature.

One painting, titled, 'Beauty of Nature', captures an overgrown motorcycle engulfed by vines and foliage, blending the elements of human-made and nature. The overwhelming use of greens signified growth, life, and resilience. The various shades of green—from the deep forest tones to the vibrant lime—highlight the layers and depth of the foliage. 

The intricate details of the vines wrapping around the motorcycle components suggest an intimate, slow process of decay and rebirth. There, the artist skillfully used light and shadow to create realism, drawing attention to specific parts of the motorcycle while maintaining the dominance of the vegetation.

Edge Gallery is one of the most spacious gallery spaces in the city and even though with over a hundred pieces on display, you can freely take your time and take in all of the beautiful paintings. This certainly makes for a better-than-average viewer experience which unfortunately isn't always the case in other gallery spaces in the city.

TBS Picks

Sunset by Hela Shah

Medium: Watercolour on paper

This painting depicts a melancholic rural scene, with a gnarled tree, silhouetted figures, and a glowing twilight sky. The subject suggests themes of resilience and transition, as two figures (possibly a farmer and child) walk under the vast expanse of nature.

The hues—a mix of deep blues, blacks, and golden yellows—create a moody yet hopeful tone, with the contrasting light symbolising hope amidst struggle. The twisted tree evokes a sense of endurance, while the dark foreground and reflective water puddle enhance the painting's emotional depth. 

The story reflects a journey at dusk, symbolising life's struggles and hope for a brighter future. The careful use of light and shadow beautifully captures human and natural harmony.

Monsoon Season in Dhaka by Maneek Bonik

Medium: Watercolour on paper

This painting vividly portrays a typical rainy urban scene in Dhaka. It centres on the chaotic harmony of Dhaka during the monsoon, with pedestrians under umbrellas, a red double-decker BRTC bus, and darkened streets glistening with rain. 

The stormy grey hues dominate the sky and background, setting a melancholic yet dynamic tone, while the bright red of the bus and muted colourful umbrellas punctuate the scene with life and energy.

The painting captures the resilience of the city's inhabitants braving the elements, suggesting stories of everyday struggle and perseverance. The blurred, flowing textures of the rain give off a digital painting feel.

Monsoon 15 by Azmeer Hossain

Medium: Watercolour on paper

This conveys the elegance of nature through the flight of birds against a misty royal blue gradient backdrop. The subject—a flock of birds in motion—symbolises freedom, unity, and natural rhythm. The hues, dominated by deep blues fading into white, induce serenity and a sense of depth, resembling the calm of dawn or dusk. 

The painting narrates a story of migration or exploration, reflecting life's journey and the beauty of collective effort. The subtlety of the hues and design captures a meditative quality, inviting introspection.