Art within reach unfolds in ‘One Square Stories’

On February 14, 2026, Bhumi Gallery in Lalmatia inaugurated “One Square Stories”, a group exhibition by 20 Bangladeshi artists that centres on accessibility in art. Built around the idea that art should not remain a luxury confined to the urban upper class, the exhibition presents works created on one-square-foot canvases; compact in size, economical in medium, yet rich in detail and expression.

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Art and culture, the exhibition suggests, should be part of everyone’s life. At the same time, artists deserve recognition and fair reward for their skill. Through its modest format, “One Square Stories” attempts to bridge these two sentiments, offering works that are both attainable and thoughtfully crafted.

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Eminent artist Professor Emeritus Rafiqun Nabi attended the opening as chief guest, while Akhter Mahmud Rana, adviser of United Group, was present as special guest. Artists Professor Nisar Hossain and Mohammad Eunus, along with Bhumi Gallery founder Saifur Rahman Lenin, delivered speeches before the exhibition formally opened.

The participating artists are Mohammad Eunus, Jamal Ahmed, Ranjit Das, Ahmed Shamsuddoha, Kanak Chanpa Chakma, Mohammad Iqbal, Mahmudur Rahman Dipon, Shaila Akhter, Azmeer Hossain, Sadek Ahmed, Kamruzzoha, Abdus Sattar Toufiq, M M Maksud Biplob, Abdullah Al Bashir, Shahid Kazi, Monjur Rashid, Nazmul Haque Bappy, Azmol, and Jayanta Mondal.

During the visit to the gallery, paintings in shades of ultramarine immediately drew attention. The style was distinct yet familiar enough to recognise Azmeer Hossain’s bright blue works. Nearby were delicate paintings of birds and nature, identifiable as Kamruzzoha’s. On the opposite wall hung Shahid Kazi’s thick, textured sunflowers rendered in dry strokes.

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Jayanta Mondal’s paintings captivated with their ethereal quality, while Sadek Ahmed’s architectural works evoked nostalgia. Mohammad Iqbal created comforting abstract pieces using Japanese washi tapes. Jamal Ahmed and Kanak Chanpa Chakma portrayed rural Bangladesh, while M M Maksud Biplob painted prominent urban locations of Dhaka. Azmol Hosen depicted the Sundarbans in bold brushstrokes, producing a raw, photographic effect.

Ranjit Das and Shaila Akhter presented vibrant portraits. Mohammad Eunus, Mahmudur Rahman Dipon, and Abdus Sattar Toufiq conveyed varied emotions through abstract forms. Ahmed Shamsuddoha’s hyperrealistic hibiscus flowers stood out for their meticulous detail. Monjur Rashid, Nazmul Haque Bappy, and Kamal Uddin explored floral subjects in distinct styles, while Abdullah Al Bashir’s sparrow feeding its young inside a wall niche added a tender note.

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In essence, the exhibition reflects Mies van der Rohe’s philosophy of “less is more”. Bhumi Gallery will host “One Square Stories” until March 14, 2026.