Evolution of subcontinental art

Professor Abul Mansur Speaking at the event

Noted art critic and a professor of Department of Fine Arts, Chittagong University, Abul Mansur presented informative lectures at the seminar.

On the first day of the seminar, Professor Mansur made a presentation of art in the subcontinent since the first human settlements in this part of the world till Partition in 1947. The presentation featured art forms found in the ruins of the Indus civilisation, history and evolution of art during the time of the first natives of the subcontinent -- Vedda, Austral, Dravid, migration of the Aryans to this land, Mourjo, Shankha and Kushan reign and the British colonisation.

Professor Mansur also spoke on the distinctions of art forms in the pre-Aryan Indus civilisation. Subcontinetal art and culture went through a metamorphosis after the Greek invasion and connection with the western world. During the Gupta dynasty, subcontinental art attained a refined Indian character. In art from the Mughal era, Persian, Indian and European influences are noticed. Subcontinetal art adapted certain characters during the colonial period as well.

Professor Mansur's presentation on the second day of the seminar highlighted evolution of paintings and sculptures during the Pakistan-era, post-Liberation War and current times. The presentation featured the impact of western affiliation on art after the Partition. Paintings and sculpture demonstrated a distinct aesthetic sense that originated from the subcontinental heritage. In the then-East Pakistan, political activities and emerging nationalism made a major impression on art. The presentation wrapped up with a discussion on the input of young artists in the formation of an identity of our art.