On February 14, 2026, Bhumi Gallery in Lalmatia unveiled “One Square Stories,” a collective exhibit featuring 20 Bangladeshi artists focusing on making art more accessible. The showcase revolves around the notion that art should not be a luxury limited to the affluent city dwellers, showcasing pieces created on one-square-foot canvases. Despite their small size and cost-effective materials, these artworks are intricate and expressive.
The exhibition advocates for integrating art and culture into everyone’s daily lives while emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and rewarding artists for their talents. Through its unassuming presentation, “One Square Stories” aims to bridge the gap between accessibility and craftsmanship, offering pieces that are both affordable and meticulously crafted.
Renowned artist Professor Emeritus Rafiqun Nabi graced the opening ceremony as the chief guest, and Akhter Mahmud Rana, advisor of United Group, attended as the special guest. The event featured speeches from artists Professor Nisar Hossain and Mohammad Eunus, as well as Bhumi Gallery founder Saifur Rahman Lenin before officially commencing the exhibition.
The lineup of artists includes 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.
Visitors to the gallery were immediately drawn to paintings featuring shades of ultramarine, with Azmeer Hossain’s distinctive bright blue works catching the eye. Nearby, intricate depictions of birds and nature by Kamruzzoha could be identified. On another wall, Shahid Kazi’s textured sunflowers created a striking visual with their dry strokes.
Jayanta Mondal’s ethereal paintings were captivating, while Sadek Ahmed’s architectural pieces evoked a sense of nostalgia. Mohammad Iqbal’s abstract creations using Japanese washi tapes exuded a comforting aura. Artists like Jamal Ahmed and Kanak Chanpa Chakma portrayed rural scenes of Bangladesh, with M M Maksud Biplob focusing on urban landmarks of Dhaka. Azmol Hosen’s bold brushstrokes brought the Sundarbans to life in a raw, almost photographic manner.
Ranjit Das and Shaila Akhter showcased vibrant portraits, while Mohammad Eunus, Mahmudur Rahman Dipon, and Abdus Sattar Toufiq conveyed diverse 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 themes in their unique styles, while Abdullah Al Bashir’s depiction of a sparrow feeding its young inside a wall niche added a tender touch to the collection.
Overall, the exhibition embodies the philosophy of “less is more,” echoing the sentiments of Mies van der Rohe. “One Square Stories” will be on display at Bhumi Gallery until March 14, 2026.
