Visually Bimurto: A tale of two artists exploring the abstract

It is rare to walk through an exhibition where vibrant colours arise between striking black-and-white sketches, creating a dynamic interplay of contrasts. 

Two artists, bound not only by their collaboration in art but also by their shared lives, bring together two contrasting styles with a singular focus: ambiguity.

Artists Habibur Rahman and Shamsad Rahman have been displaying their versatile artworks in their first exhibition in Bangladesh in the capital's Gallery Chitrak with 'Visually Bimurto', closing the curtains tomorrow. While the artists focus on different mediums, they both use abstract art to dig into the viewers' psyche, leaving them to interpret their meanings. 

"Habibur Rahman primarily works with geometric lines, graphite, and coloured pencils, while Shamsad Rahman begins by photographing her subjects and uses mixed media on silk fabric, her signature style," explained Efat Razowana Reya, the curator.

"The exhibition is showcased in a way that Shamsad's paintings are placed between Habibur's artworks, symbolising how she brings colour into his life," she added.

Shamsad Rahman, a digital designer and silk painter based in South Carolina, is privileged to connect with people worldwide. Two of her standout pieces feature 'Alhena' and 'Maia,' two women of different ethnic backgrounds. Together, they beautifully capture the essence of their cultures. Her art serves as a vibrant celebration of diversity, seamlessly blending tradition with modernity.

"It's like a circle — being both an architect and an artist, they all fall under the same umbrella of art," said Habibur Rahman, artist and architect. "I've been creating art since I was three. While I initially pursued architecture, I continued making art as a hobby. It wasn't until later in life that I realised the value of the years I spent sketching in my notebooks."

Habibur shared that the graphite on the paper piece titled, 'Dance in Twilight' took him six months to finish, and he has proudly displayed this particular work in multiple exhibitions. 

"It's like a circle — being both an architect and an artist, they all fall under the same umbrella of art. While I initially pursued architecture, I continued making art as a hobby. It wasn't until later in life that I realised the value of the years I spent sketching in my notebooks."

Habibur Rahman

The beauty of abstract art lies in its ambiguity. One person's interpretation can differ from another's, but neither perspective is wrong. Ultimately, abstract art invites enjoyment and encourages the question, "Why and how?" to be explored individually.

TBS Picks

Devil in Colours by Shamsad Rahman

Medium: Mixed Media on Silk Fabric

A bold green and blue arrangement forms a layered, symmetrical design. The reflective symmetry brings out a kaleidoscopic depth, balancing harmony and chaos. The layers encourage the viewer to explore hidden narratives within their vivid complexity.

Hope in Distress 9 by Habibur Rahman

Medium: Graphite on Paper

A black-and-white drawing featuring swirling, wavy lines that seem to dance across the canvas. The sharp, scratch-like marks add a feeling of tension, while the flowing shapes suggest movement. It is a raw and expressive portrayal of form and emotion.

Yellow Leaf by Shamsad Rahman

Medium: Silk Painting

A single yellow-green leaf stands out in the centre, surrounded by a deep blue textured frame. The layers of colour and gentle outlines create a peaceful atmosphere. The painting draws attention to the quiet beauty of nature in a simple yet striking way.