Curator Shehzad Chowdhury explains to Aidha Cader how ‘Longitude and Latitude 6’ is changing the art circuit in Dhaka
Photographs by Ashraf Uddin Apu
In the midst of all the congestion in North Dhaka, the scope for artistic expression is somewhat limited to the growing cluster of retail shops, restaurants and buildings. However events such as Art Bazaar, poetry reading by Syed Ali Imam, creative writing workshop or even the clay workshop by Nazmul Haque keep the art scene alive. Such events see amateurs and professionals showcasing their work and interacting with the audience alongside giving a fresh approach to the display and engagement. According to Shehzad Chowdhury, the curator, ‘Art Happenings’ are creating ripples in our cultural space. “We don’t merely exhibit art in a traditional sense but we create a common space, granted temporary, that bring together various genres of art that engage with the audience.”
At a glance, an ‘Art Happening’ is a cross between art exhibition and theatrical performance. L&L6 has organised over eighty such events since 2003. It has staged the seat friends’ lofts, art galleries, backyards, vacant houses, office spaces and also at Beauty Boarding in Old Dhaka. “The whole concept is that we don’t rent out the space; we use up vacant space in transition and thereby there is no financial cost to L&L6 or the artists,” comments Shehzad.
This fluid structure that is constantly moving depending on availability of space is also creating a new outlook for the artist and the patrons. “Every aspect of L&L6 is based on volunteerism and goodwill with a vision to promote and create awareness of the arts,” he adds.
“Be it a painting or a performance, some artists feel that tge traditional establishments are too intimidating.Here, we are able to create an environment to showcase their work that is less structured and yet more engaging,” he further explains. The audience is involved more than just being a detached observer. With multiple genres of art held in a single space there is cross influences for which the audience is able to interact. This, as Shehzad claims, “Creates combustion of interesting interactions.”
He further adds, “Art is the great connector, it connects people, it changes attitudes and it influences culture.”
As an artist himself, Shehzad believes that the most important part of art is the audience and how they engage with the work of art. This is the ideology behind L&L6 approach in presenting art. He further adds, “This interaction is important for the growth and influence of various types of art which can filter into our mainstream culture.”
L&L6 is undoubtedly a bold concept that has grown from strength to strength. As they wind down their 6th edition of ‘Art Happening’ by bringing artists from various fields including visual art, performance art, music, drama, poetry, writing, sculpting and such to a multi layered audience and patrons, they are able to create a symphony of cultural enrichment.