Anisul Haque Barun has distinguished himself as a theatre performer, designer, choreographer and director, besides directing several short films which have been enthusiastically received by audiences. In recent years he has also become widely known for his photographs which stand out for their artistic and creative quality and the messages they convey. He focuses mostly on nature, minutely observing how seasonal changes leave their mark on trees and meadows, flowers and creepers. What Barun’s photographs tell the audience is simple: observe nature minutely and discover a world of spectacle. He uses an ordinary digital SLR (single lens reflex) camera with the usual attachment of lenses, but comes up with breathtaking close shots of the intricate designs and patterns that often suggest, in an abstract way, human figures and faces or other familiar objects.
In his latest solo exhibition, Barun has concentrated on the bark of trees, where simple cracks and fissures reveal a profusion of designs. In course of the day, with the light changing, these areas take on different appearances. Barun also focuses on the different formations of moss on brick walls which also challenge him with meaningful images. He sometimes waits for hours for the right shade of light to get the desired exposure. He has patience and dedication, two important qualities every photographer should have.
What I like most about this exhibition is the photographs’ closeness to paintings. In formal arrangement, colours, tonalities and texture, all the photographs can double as perfectly executed paintings which stand out for their artistic appeal. I am sure the audience will come up with their own readings of the photographs and discover their hidden meanings.
Syed Manzoorul Islam is a professor of Department of English and Humanities at University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh
