Auntora Mehrukh Azad's solo exhibition, titled "Solastalgia: Fragments of a Fading Horizon," will be held at Platforms Gallery in Pragati Sarani, Baridhara, Dhaka, from October 19 to November 16, 2024. The exhibition will be open daily from 11 am to 8 pm, inviting art enthusiasts to experience Azad's compelling exploration of environmental change through her artwork.
Azad’s art focuses on the effects of climate-induced flooding and the tension between rural and urban environments. Her paintings reflect the ongoing environmental crisis in Bangladesh, emphasizing how human activities have reshaped natural landscapes. Using bright and unnatural colors, she depicts rivers and settings that are altered by climate change and urbanization, making a powerful statement about the fragility of these environments.
A pivotal moment in Azad's artistic journey occurred in 2018 when she worked closely with flood-affected communities in Pakuria. This experience profoundly impacted her understanding of the relationship between people and their environment. It inspired her to convey the emotional and physical challenges faced by communities impacted by climate change through her art. Her works blend personal experiences with broader environmental themes, showcasing the struggles of those living on the edges of disaster.
Curated by Rayana Hossain, the exhibition will present large-scale acrylic paintings, including notable pieces such as "The Great Migration" and "Elephant in the Room." These artworks capture the resilience and vulnerability of communities affected by climate change, symbolizing their ongoing struggles and the sense of displacement they endure.
Auntora Mehrukh Azad is an accomplished visual artist with a Master of Fine Arts and Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Faculty of Fine Art, University of Dhaka. Her work has been exhibited internationally and is included in significant collections like the Samdani Art Foundation and the Luciano Benetton Collection.
