From war-time brutalities to revolutionary social changes, artists in their artworks have never failed to respond to their times. Many of their creations have eventually turned out to be artistic masterpieces in addition to being important historical records. Times of pandemic are no different. As during the bubonic plague of the 14th century and the Spanish flu of the 20th century, artists have started to respond to the dark realities unleashed by the Covid-19 pandemic with pieces that speak of hope and despair at the same time.
In a unique move to feature these works through a virtual exhibition, Edge The Foundation has sent out a call to artists of all ages and hues to send in their artworks that are inspired by or themed around the Covid-19 pandemic. The organisers have also requested artists to share the stories behind their artworks. Starting from May 15, the deadline for sending submissions is July 31, 2020. However, the deadline can be extended till August 15, according to Sarwar N Chowdhury, a Consultant for Edge. Details can be found on the Foundation's website: www.edgethefoundation.com.
Left: Frontline Heroes of the Covid-19 War by Gulshan Hossain Right: Connections by Farzana Rahman BobbyIn an announcement published on its website, the Foundation says, “We have stories of loneliness and fear to weave into tales; acts of courage and kindness to illustrate with colour and finally we have our collective persistence to harmonize through notes of optimism.”
So far 300 artworks have been submitted by artists, both young and seasoned. In these pieces, artists have touched upon various themes including the inevitability of death, income disparity, corruption at administrative and political levels, loneliness, alienation, domestic violence, resurgence of nature, resilience, the power of collectivity and hope for a better future.
Left: Distant Skies; Dreaming of a Safer World by Mohammad Iqbal; Right: Spirit by Mustaque Ahmed
Selections of these artworks, which are available for sale too, are being displayed on the Foundations's website (https://edgethefoundation.com/art-in-the-times-of-coronavirus/). The virtual exhibition will continue till the Foundation’s two galleries, one in Gulshan and the other in Dhanmondi, reopen to the public. The organisers plan to have at least one physical exhibition later in this year or at the beginning of 2021 to “celebrate these artworks that highlight our failures, triumphs and the human condition during this crisis.”
