The highly anticipated exhibition, “Quarantine,” featuring multi-dimensional artworks by the renowned artist Mahbubur Rahman, is set to open today with an inaugural ceremony at the Kamrul Hasan Exhibition, located on level 1 of Bengal Shilpalay in Dhanmondi. The event will commence at 5 pm and will continue to enchant art enthusiasts daily, except for Sundays, from 4 pm to 8 pm until December 2 of this year.
Mahbubur Rahman’s “Quarantine” is a reflection of his personal journey through the tumultuous times of the COVID-19 pandemic. This striking exhibition showcases a series of prints titled ‘Madona’, which delve into the emotions and experiences of individuals during the global crisis. Rahman’s innovative approach combines metal etching, sculpture, prints, artist’s books, and drawings to capture the essence of his contemplations and research on historical events.
In an exclusive statement regarding his exhibition, the artist expressed, “Following the outbreak of the pandemic, the entire world was engulfed in the horrors of it. I personally have had to undergo losses and gains which formed the basis of my ‘Madona’ series of prints. I started researching and contemplating various historical events that stoked my curiosity.”
“Quarantine” is not just the product of an individual artist’s vision. A significant portion of the exhibition emerged from a collaborative community-driven project that began four years ago. Rahman’s humble gratitude extends to the artists, craftspersons, technicians, and artisans from different genres who lent their skills and expertise to bring this remarkable work to fruition.
Mahbubur Rahman, a distinguished artist in his own right, completed his MFA in Drawing and Painting at the Institute of Fine Art of the University of Dhaka. Throughout his illustrious career, he has held numerous solo exhibitions and been a part of various projects in exhibitions around the world.
His exceptional talent has also led to his work being included in the collections of esteemed institutions and foundations, including Kunsthaus Zurich, Neue Gallery in Kassel, Gujral Foundation, Kiran Nader Museum of Art, JSW Foundation, Harmony Art Foundation, Devi Art Foundation in India, and Bengal Foundation, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Samdani Art Foundation in Bangladesh. Furthermore, Rahman’s creations have found their place in the Fukuoka Art Museum and the LO-FTF Council Denmark.
Rahman’s dedication to his craft has seen him participate in workshops and artists’ residencies across the globe, from India, Sikkim, and China to Sri Lanka, the UK, Nepal, Japan, Thailand, and his home country, Bangladesh. His work is celebrated for its unique blend of artistic forms and its deep engagement with social and historical themes.
During the opening ceremony, prominent figures such as Professor Bulbul Osman, women and human rights activist Khushi Kabir, and artist Taiba Begum Lipi will address the audience, adding depth to this extraordinary exhibition that promises to be a visual and emotional journey through the trials and tribulations of our shared human experience. “Quarantine” is a testament to the power of art to transcend adversity and find beauty in the darkest of times.