Arnob back on the canvas
"Painting has always been deeply ingrained in me," says Shayan Chowdhury Arnob, a beloved musician known for his genre-fusing songs. However, Arnob's artistic journey stretches beyond music—he has dedicated himself to creating visual art, a medium he says brings him profound solace.
On a quiet autumn evening, we visited Arnob's studio, Kolorob, where he shared reflections on his musical career, insights into his creative journey in art, and his upcoming projects. "Art brings me peace, and I find greater joy in it than in creating music," he reveals. He further explains, "Music is something I share with others; it's a collective experience where audiences' reactions matter. But art is personal—there are no boundaries. I can draw or paint what I truly feel. There's a freedom in art that's entirely mine, allowing a space for complete authenticity."
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. 
Despite his passion, Arnob recognises that the public often struggles to engage with visual art as readily as they do with music. "People pay for concerts, but they wouldn't buy tickets for an exhibition! We lack the practice of appreciating and dissecting art. Music is simply an easier way to reach the masses."
Arnob describes the style of his art as mostly figurative and abstract, though he has experimented with sketches and representational art as well. His background in fine arts has shaped his approach to both art and music, teaching him techniques that serve him across both mediums. With expertise in printmaking, Arnob feels a particular affinity for this medium. "Printmaking allows people to collect as many copies as they like, making art accessible," he explains. "As I share my work on social media, many enthusiasts have expressed interest in obtaining a piece. The response has been really positive."
Arnob's dedication to art is not new. His 2008 album "Doob" included artwork he created, and he has continued sharing his work through pre-ordered folios on his official social media page, where fans can request specific pieces. "I want to build my art career now; it's a core part of my identity."
Arnob's latest art folio, featuring 12 of his drawings, is now available for purchase on his official Facebook page, with special discounts available for students. This release is in collaboration with Qinetic Music as the distributor and Pathao Courier as the delivery partner.
Besides being a fine arts graduate, Arnob grew up surrounded by creativity—his parents, Swapan Chowdhury and Suraiya Chowdhury are both painters. Although Arnob has already collaborated in group exhibitions, he's now preparing for his first solo exhibition— a long-held dream he hopes to fulfil next year.
On the musical front, while Arnob's music career has brought him widespread fame, he has continually experimented with his sound, blending folk and classical music in a unique style. With nine solo albums to his name, Arnob has been the producer of Coke Studio Bangla, for three consecutive seasons— a collaboration he values deeply. "I was amazed at how people embraced the stories we told through Coke Studio Bangla productions, and we helped artistes transition from folk genres to rock, jazz, and pop. The entire journey has been ecstatic! Working with a team of 200 people felt wonderful."
He notes that although the Coke Studio platform exists and produces music in many countries, only the Bangla platform has organised a concert so far, which was met with tremendous enthusiasm. "Performing for 4,0000 people with 200 musicians felt surreal," he reminisces.
Arnob shared that several new Coke Studio Bangla songs have completed production and are ready for release, however, the exact dates are up to Coke's discretion. "But they'll be out very soon," he hints.
Nevertheless, Arnob's musical style, with its modern touches, has also faced criticism. However, he embraces this fusion, believing it defines his artistic identity. "I think more people have appreciated and connected with my music than criticising. Just as we modernise our food, attire, and daily lives, music must evolve too."
He reflects on his experience in Shantiniketan— where people sing Rabindra Sangeet seated, whereas, in Dhaka, performers stand— highlighting differences in cultural expression. "Younger listeners connect more with my fusion due to its contemporary composition, and even many have discovered traditional music through my work," shares the musician.
Arnob's journey was documented in the 2021 musical film "Adhkhana Bhalo Chele Adha Mostaan", which captured his growth as an artiste. He, now, reveals that his next project, initially planned as an album, will be another musical film.
It will feature 12 fresh songs, including lyrics penned by Arnob, along with renowned poets like Srijato, Rajib, and Zahid Haydar. Additionally, it will include a poem by Jibanananda Das, featuring the original verses penned by the poet.
Reflecting on the upcoming project, Arnob shares, "There will be echoes of my older albums, like "Chaina Bhabish", along with new experimental songs. I'm really excited about it."
Comments