Monday | 7 October 2024 | Reg No- 06
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Monday | 7 October 2024 | Epaper
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Our art market should expand 

Published : Monday, 7 October, 2024 at 12:00 AM  Count : 95
GM Mehedi Hasan
Bangladesh's art scene is deeply rooted in cultural and historical traditions. However, the country's art market remains largely urban-centric, focused on galleries, exhibitions, workshops and collectors in major cities like Dhaka and Chittagong. This focus on urban elites has led to a disconnect between contemporary art and the majority of Bangladesh's population - the rural communities, where nearly 60% of the population resides. To create a more inclusive and impactful art market, it is crucial to expand the reach of fine art beyond the confines of cities and engage rural communities. 

The art market in Bangladesh must undergo significant reform to bridge this gap. Currently, most artists and students of fine arts cater primarily to the urban market, producing commercially viable works that appeal to an elite clientele. While this provides a steady income for some, it limits the broader potential of art as a medium for social engagement and change. Artists, particularly students, should be encouraged to take their creative work into rural areas, fostering a deeper connection between art and the wider population. They can also set up exhibitions and organize plein-air workshops. These actions benefit urban artists by educating them about rural culture and methods, in addition to helping rural communities learn about art and the art market. Publishing periodicals and painting walls are also more effective ways to raise awareness among rural residents. Aside from scheduling performance arts for marketing may also work well because rural residents enjoy it. They can also establish an online community to foster more connectivity. 

Fine art students, in particular, have the potential to play a transformative role in rural Bangladesh. Students can engage with the community through field trips, cultural immersion and rural art festivals. By engaging with these communities, students can create art that reflects the diverse cultural, heritage and challenges of the countryside. Additionally, working with rural artisans can lead to a fusion of traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques, resulting in artworks that are both locally meaningful and commercially viable. Urban artists can also support them financially by engaging them in public projects. They can also educate rural artisans about online galleries and social media campaigns through which they can both showcase and sell their artworks. On the other hand, urban artists can learn the aesthetics of rural people and apply that to art marketing. This collaboration would help promote local culture while providing rural artists with access to national and international markets. 

Furthermore, art can be a powerful tool for addressing social issues such as gender inequality, climate change, and rural poverty. By creating public art installations or organizing workshops in rural areas, fine art students can raise awareness and spark conversations on these important topics. Such initiatives can inspire and empower local communities, turning art into a tool for social change. 

Subsequently, rural communities can express their cultural, economic and social point of view through art. Expanding the art market to rural communities also presents an opportunity for economic development. Fine art students can help rural artists and craftsmen gain access to larger markets by collaborating on projects that promote local culture. This could provide rural communities with a much-needed source of income while preserving traditional Bangladeshi arts and crafts. 

In conclusion, reforming Bangladesh's art market is essential for fostering inclusivity and promoting the power of art as a tool for social and economic development. Fine art students are uniquely positioned to lead this change by engaging with rural communities and using their talents to create a positive, far-reaching impact. 

The writer is Co-founder, Studio Hasonto



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