A visual treat of shapes and shades

The weeklong Oriental Painting Exhibition, organised by Oriental Painting Study Group, will close this evening at the Zainul Gallery of Faculty of Fine Art, University of Dhaka.

Forty-seven artists, comprising teachers and students of Oriental Painting Departments of different universities and a number of freelance artists, participated in the exhibition with 54 artworks. This is the fifth exhibit by the group -- that works to promote Oriental Painting. 

The exhibited artworks range from ordinary elements found in nature to portraits, landscapes and even a few abstract pieces. They all bear the sign of oriental painting that represents the age-old art forms of this sub continent.

The paintings are done with precision and using different techniques. Wash technique, one of the signature styles of oriental painting, is evident in the artworks while the use of vivid colours and smooth strokes are also visible in the works.

For example, Tajul Islam's work deals with wash painting techniques, while Kantideb Adhikary's work gives social messages comparing the life of parasites with that of street children. The linear, two-dimensional works of some of the participants bear distinguishable styles. 

Many of the artists focused on natural objects, using the free flow of water colours. From falling leaves to blossom in nature and to woman in the shape of lotus are easily relatable with objects encountered in everyday life.

Amit Nandi's works draw attention for their vibrant colours and high level of precision, while other artists portrayed outstanding landscapes. The exhibition also contains two calligraphies – a characteristic of oriental art. 

The exhibited artworks depict life and its rhythm. Even a hyacinth is a visual treat when depicted right on a canvas.