Color Should Touch My Spirit: A Neat and Vibrant
On December 24 to December31, 2024, Gallery Chitrak hosted an extraordinary
solo exhibition by renowned Bangladeshi artist Manik Dey titled "Color Should
Touch My Spirit." This remarkable showcase of vivid imagery and emotional
resonance was a masterclass in the use of color, abstraction, and spiritual themes
to evoke introspection and joy.
A painter’s journey from profession to passion unfolds in Manik Dey’s first solo
exhibition, where colourful canvases blend graphic design precision with artistic
sensitivity, capturing the beauty of ordinary lives
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.
Notable Highlights:
The exhibition featured over 25 of Manik Dey's latest works, ranging from large-
scale abstract canvases to smaller mixed-media pieces. The central theme
revolved around the transformative power of color, not just as a visual element
but as a means of connecting with the soul.
Abstract Canvases: Dey's hallmark large-format works, such as Eternal Rhythm
and Song of the Sun, burst with vibrant hues and bold strokes, creating a sense of
movement and vitality.
Textured Pieces: His experimentation with textures—layering paint, sand, and
other materials—added depth and a tactile quality to works like Earthbound
Echoes.
Miniatures with a Twist: The exhibition also included smaller, intimate pieces,
such as Whisper of the Blues, where Dey's controlled use of muted tones created
a serene, meditative ambiance.
Symbolism: Subtle symbols of Bangladeshi heritage, such as lotus flowers, rural
landscapes, peoples daily life and rivers, appeared throughout, grounding his
abstract art in cultural identity.
We can see” Protikkha” as example:
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Its an art of Manik Dey, ,during covid. This picture is reflecting a "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
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.
What Stood Out:
What truly set Manik Dey's work apart was his ability to balance vibrancy with
subtlety. Each piece conveyed a unique emotion, from exuberance to tranquility,
through carefully orchestrated color palettes.
One standout piece was Pulse of the Cosmos, a swirling blend of reds, blues, and
golds that seemed to radiate energy, capturing the essence of
interconnectedness. In contrast, Muted Harmony used pastel shades and delicate
lines to evoke a sense of calm and introspection, proving Dey’s versatility as an
artist.
His ability to incorporate spiritual undertones without overt symbolism made the
exhibition universally relatable, allowing viewers to project their own
interpretations onto the works.
Presentation and Atmosphere:
The exhibition space at Safiuddin Shilpalay was transformed into an immersive
world of color. The gallery's layout followed a narrative arc, beginning with bold,
high-energy pieces and transitioning into softer, introspective works, mirroring
the emotional journey Dey intended to create.
Lighting played a crucial role in enhancing the art. Strategically placed spotlights
highlighted the textures and layers, allowing the vibrancy of the colors to shine.
The minimalist decor of the gallery ensured that the artworks remained the focal
point, creating an atmosphere of quiet reverence.
The artist himself was present, offering insights into his process and inspiration,
which added a personal touch to the event.
Critical Observations:
While the exhibition was a feast for the eyes, a few areas could have been
improved:
1. Thematic Explanation: The overarching spiritual theme could have been better
contextualized with written materials, such as detailed descriptions or a
catalogue. This would have helped viewers unfamiliar with abstract art to engage
more deeply.
2. Overcrowding: Given the popularity of the event, the gallery felt slightly
overcrowded during peak hours, which detracted from the contemplative
atmosphere.
3. Diversity in Mediums: While the focus on painting was commendable, the
inclusion of more diverse mediums, such as installations or digital art, could have
broadened the scope of the exhibition.
The Experience
Attending "Color Should Touch My Spirit" was an enriching and uplifting
experience. Visitors were visibly moved by the sheer intensity of the colors and
the emotional resonance of the works. Many were seen discussing their
interpretations, reflecting the exhibition's success in fostering dialogue and
connection.
The opportunity to interact with Manik Dey added depth to the experience. His
explanations of how he views color as a language of the soul resonated deeply
with attendees, making the event more than just a visual showcase—it became a
shared journey of exploration.
Conclusion:
"Color Should Touch My Spirit" was a triumph of creativity and emotion. Manik
Dey’s ability to harness the transformative power of color while maintaining a
connection to cultural and spiritual themes showcased his maturity and vision as
an artist.
Though minor logistical improvements could enhance future exhibitions, this
event left a lasting impression on all who attended. It was a vibrant celebration of
art’s ability to touch the spirit, making it a memorable highlight in Dhaka's
cultural calendar.
Assignment of Exhibition Review
MD. Abdullah-Al-Naman
Roll: 1289
Date: 16 January, 2025
Assignment of Exhibition Review
Ariful Hasan Khan Saikat
Roll: 1292
Date: 16 January, 2025
