Inspiration from the roots

Bipad Bhanjan Sen Karmaker was born in Daragram village in Manikganj district amidst a profusion of natural beauty -- rivers, canals, green fields, schools, mosques and temples. It was a haven of harmony between communities. Says a nostalgic Karmaker, “A gentle breeze wafted through the green fields on winter mornings, when dewdrops appeared on the leaves. The charm of the six seasons could truly be enjoyed in the village.”

“Unforgettable was the wind during hot summers and sometime storms broke through. Birds quenched their thirst with different kinds of delicious fruits, and green trees soothed our minds.”

“There was water in the fields in the rainy season, heavy drizzle, cloudy skies, muddy road, green fields of paddy and water lilies in the jute fields. The white jute sticks on both sides of the river, presented a beautiful look. There was cultivable land on the side of the river, and different kinds of coloured boats plied on the river - guided by the wind.”

“After the rainy season, came autumn. The water of the rivers and canals dried up. There would be the rise of the sandy soil. Birds would sing behind the tree. The smell of the paddy fields still fills my mind. The farmers returning home with paddy on their heads was a great sight.”

“Then I would come in time to celebrate Durga Puja with the sound of drums. My mother would draw 'Alpana' and father would draw the design of ornaments. I would see my father make flowers with coloured papers. Actually my artworks were inspired by them,” Karmaker confides.

Karmaker's paintings on display at Alliance Francaise, La Galerie from November 6-19 include a milkman carrying pots on his back. He is dressed in a sarong and singlet. You get the impression of action by the swift strokes of the brush.

“Nature” has beautiful trees of green and red at the back. The reflection on water makes the painting interesting. The colourful tribal girls are dancing. They have their typical carrier baskets at the back and necklaces of large silver coins.

“Under the tree” has flowers in front, with trees in the backdrop. There is green grass in front. The combination of green, red and brown make the composition interesting.

The exposition is Karmaker's 4th solo on “Nature and Culture”.