Duo’s work: ‘Absurd Illusions’ on display

Two artists display their view of urban spaces through art.

ISLAMABAD: Painting is not just an expression of art but also a social and moral duty, which explores and widens the understanding of cultural and spiritual identity.

This was the view of local artist Muhammad Ali Bhatti, whose paintings were launched at an exhibition on Monday at the Nomad Art Gallery. The event also features paintings of Bangladeshi artist Kazi Salahuddin.

The opening ceremony of the exhibition was attended by local artists, art connoisseurs and foreign dignitaries who loved the use of bright colours.

Talking about the work presented in “Absurd Illusions”, Bhatti told The Express Tribune that his subject matter always had its roots in figurative compositions, portraits and cultural subjects and he liked to experiment joyously in style and medium.

“More recently I have been immersed in the mystery and emotions of non-objective painting. I like it because it is exciting, challenging and closer to my heart,” Bhatti said.

“I believe that the real enjoyment of art is the process of painting and the intuitive exploration of the visual language. I enjoy spontaneity with energetic bold
brush strokes, honest expressions and vibrant colours and shapes,” he added.

“Form and content in my compositions are seriously contemplated.

Elements move freely in anonymous space, moulded with energetic colours, texture and illusions of appearance and disappearance of elements within the picture plan,” he explained.

Bhatti has used bright colours blended into each other with a slight touch of calligraphy and portraits.

Salahuddin, who hails from Dhaka, used cityscapes in his work with bright colours and magazine cuttings. He said that the forms, composition, colours and the structures used in his work were reflective of a central ideology that revolved around breaking stereotypes. “My work incorporates elements from my childhood memories, aspects of daily existence and is blended together to reflect the fantastic rhythm, music, smell and texture of the old city,” Salahuddin said.

Nageen Hayat, the director of the gallery, said both the artists comment on the city in different ways.

“Salahuddin comments through observing cityscapes in the old part of Dhaka and the demarcation lines that bring people closer, while Bhatti comments on the current political ambiguity and confusion in the society,” she said.

“Both the artists represent exceptional thought-proving artwork and we are honoured to feature their work”, Hayat said.

The exhibition will continue till May 14.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 5^th, 2015.