Color Should Touch My Spirit: Neat and vibrant

In a country like ours, where certain industries have struggled to thrive sustainably, passion often has to take a backseat to the profession. Such was the case for Manik Dey.

Despite being a painter since the 1970s, it wasn't until December 2024 that he held his first solo exhibition — a significant milestone and perhaps the first real showcase of his talent and artistry. His passion for painting, however, has always carried traces of his professional life, blending the two in subtle ways — something you can see for yourself if you make it to Dhanmondi's Gallery Chitrak before 31 December.

"I think it's less about my artworks reflecting my profession and more about my artworks reflecting my education," said Manik Dey. "Having studied in different departments at Charukola — 'Drawing and Painting' and 'Graphics Design' — you can see a blend of both disciplines and how they've influenced my work."

According to the artist, the defining characteristic of his canvases, shaped by his education and career as a graphic designer, is their "neatness." He believes his artworks, especially those featured in the 'Colour Should Touch My Spirit' exhibition, lack roughness. They present as immaculate, polished pieces that stand out with their splash of colours.

The paintings in the exhibition collectively emphasise the beauty of ordinary lives, blending traditional themes with a contemporary flair. The artist's control over colour and texture reflects a graphic designer's precision, while the emotive subjects highlight his artistic sensitivity.

"I have a deep love for colours, and I make it a priority to ensure that all my pieces are vibrant and full of life. Just look around — almost every painting bursts with colour," said an enthusiastic Manik Dey.

His paintings reflect a captivating blend of realism and abstraction, defined by energetic brushstrokes and bold colour palettes. Among the works displayed at the exhibition was a standout piece depicting a rural scene with cattle. This artwork masterfully combines impressionistic elements with modern realism. 

I have a deep love for colours, and I make it a priority to ensure that all my pieces are vibrant and full of life. Just look around — almost every painting bursts with colour.

Manik Dey

The dynamic, textured background contrasts beautifully with the detailed figures in the foreground, creating a canvas rich in narrative. It captures the simplicity and resilience of rural life, portraying harmony between humans, animals, and nature. The interplay of warm and cool tones suggests a delicate balance, representing the coexistence of hard work and tranquillity.

The exhibition also featured several floral paintings that leaned towards expressive abstraction. These works, with their loose, flowing brushstrokes and skilful use of colour gradients, exuded a sense of vitality and freshness. 

While these pieces celebrate natural beauty and are visually striking, they appear more decorative, focusing on aesthetic appeal rather than conveying deeper narrative or emotional depth evident in some of Manik's other works.

TBS Picks (comments from the artist)

Protikkha

Medium: Acrylic on Canvas

This painting was created during the lockdown four years ago. I remember looking down from my balcony when I saw this "rickshaw puller" taking a break. His attire — jeans and a formal full shirt — suggested that he might not be a rickshaw puller by profession but was forced into physical labour due to the pandemic, likely to support himself. The entire situation struck me as deeply compelling and thought-provoking.

Shilper Kaarigor

Medium: Oil Colour on Canvas

I've been passionate about music since my student days, often visiting such places to study music and observe the work. These individuals remain behind the scenes, away from the spotlight, but their dedication and strong work ethic enable amateur musicians to make their way in music. These men never ask for anything, they just put their heads down and keep working.

Bisraam

Medium: Charcoal on Paper

A herd of buffaloes roaming together or resting side by side during a break are common scenes in North Bengal. Having travelled extensively across the region, these images frequently come to mind — the buffalo carts and the herds moving as one.