Language of the lens
Tuhin's first solo photography exhibition is being held at Alliance Francaise in Dhanmondi. The exhibition was inaugurated recently by noted educationist and chairman of Bishwa Shahitya Kendra, Professor Abdullah Abu Sayeed. Chantell Witten, country director of Helen Keller International (HKI), Bangladesh attended the event as the special guest.
Professor Sayeed said, "When photography was first introduced it was looked upon merely as a mechanical way to observe things. Realistic paintings were in vogue then. However, gradually peoples' taste moved towards abstract painting.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. "Photography, which has been recognised as an art form, is treading that route as well. In Tuhin's work the trend of abstraction is noticeable. He is a poet. Hopefully that poetic trait has been highlighted in his photographs."
Tuhin, a training officer in HKI, Bangladesh has been to different parts of the country; framing objects, scenes, animals and people that intrigued him.
His photographs, for the most part, have catchy or brow raising titles. According to Tuhin: "My style is to convince the viewer by naming the images with a familiar phrase or phenomenon that can form a witty impression."
The concept becomes apparent when one looks at the image titled JMB. The photograph focuses on burgeoning roots of a tree, taking over a wall. The possible outcome is known to all. If the process is not stopped, the penetrating roots will make the structure crumble.
Another photograph shows a quintessential image of rural life -- jade green water of a pond, an aged tree and ducks. The image is titled Jibonananda. Geometric forms are the focus of a photograph titled Pythagoras. "It's a snapshot of the still existing 'kopi-kol' at BM College in Barisal " said Tuhin.
Terminator 2 shows heaps of machine parts and Working Mother highlights a mare attached to a cart loaded with paddy, trying to tend to her young one. Contradiction shows two signs side by side at Notun Bazar, Barisal. One reads 'Masjid (mosque) As Salafi' and the other is an 'AIDS awareness' hoarding.
Sky is the Limit features a narrow piece of openness between two buildings while The Ancient Mariner is an image of shadows of fishermen, cast on water.
Tuhin's digital prints with incisive titles can be engaging to the thinking photography enthusiast. The exhibition ends on July 19.