Kathmandu— In 2018, the artist Reetu Sattar created a work titled 'Lost Tune' outside the National Theatre of Bangladesh, which involved musicians playing harmoniums on scaffolding. The experience deeply resonated with another artist who felt art for the first time in her chest rather than just through sight and mind. This encounter inspired her to pursue further artistic exploration abroad, eventually leading to a new exhibition at London's Whitechapel Gallery where she used scent as an element of art.

Artistic Journey from Bangladesh

The artist first encountered Reetu Sattar’s 'Lost Tune' during a time when music was prohibited in many Bangladeshi Muslim households. Despite this, the work gathered people to commit themselves to an artwork, making her feel art for the first time beyond just visual and mental experiences. This experience inspired her to study art abroad.

Experiencing Art Through Scent

In London, the artist discovered Adam Farah Saad’s exhibition at Camden Art Centre where she smelled KA soda upon entering the room. The scent of the soda was a pivotal moment for her as it marked the first time she felt art through her nose. This experience further deepened her understanding and appreciation of art beyond traditional visual mediums.

Creating Meaningful Collaborations

The artist’s current exhibition at Whitechapel Gallery, 'East of the Aldgate Pump,' involves Bengali sweet shops and community collaboration. Members of Oitij-jo Kitchen prepare specific mixtures of snacks that are part of the artwork itself. This collaborative approach echoes the spirit of Reetu Sattar's 'Lost Tune' by bringing people together to sustain something collectively.

Challenging Perceptions of Art

A recent Guardian review questioned the meaning in art, prompting the artist to reflect on her own work and its purpose. She emphasizes that art spaces should be less intimidating and more inclusive, allowing people to feel a sense of belonging. The Backyard Biennial aims to create conditions for meaningful encounters between people, their histories, and themselves.

(With inputs from (manual retry))

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.