Thesis Show_Art and Hope

Art and Hope- “Mongol Shovajatra”- a role of folk tradition and a symbol of blessings for prosperity, happiness, and renewal for the Global Community and Culture. My work celebrates South Asian art and culture, especially "Mongol Shovajatra," its historical significance, and its societal impact. The tradition of Mongol Shovajatra started in 1989 when students, disheartened by living under military rule, wanted to give the people of Bangladesh hope for a better future. A month before the festival, the University of Dhaka’s fine arts students and faculty members work together to make masks and large structures, believing they will drive away evil and bring progress to the community and the world. UNESCO inscribed the Mongol Shovajatra on its Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2016. “Mongol” means blessings, and “Shovajatra” means procession. This procession is open for everyone to join and celebrate “Pohela Boishakh” on April 14 each year, marking the arrival of the Bengali New Year. The word “Pohela” means “First,” and “Boishakh” is the name of the first month in the Bengali calendar. The procession pieces I have showcased represent courage, strength, a bond with nature, respect for traditions, and a message of peace and dedication toward society globally. Owls, elephants, fish, tigers, peacocks, birds, and many animal face masks are some of the greatest attractions of the festivity. They signify protectors who will erase negativity and bring prosperity to people. I brought the two original “Shorachitro” (handmade bowls) from Bangladesh to represent “Pohela Boishakh” and give an essence of their original appearance. I have always been fascinated by Bengali typography and have used it in every piece of my graphic work. Most of the typographies have different messages of peace and prosperity. I have created two King and Queen masks. These masks are the symbols of the Mughal Era and its history. The people of Bangladesh show respect by creating these masks every year at the beginning of this procession. ‘Tepa Putul,’ which is a handmade clay doll shaped as a human or animal, is another repeated motif of the festival. Countryside melas (village fairs), where they can be found, are another immense inspiration for procession motifs, especially "Tepa Putul.” It represents the tradition of rural carnivals, or ‘mela’s (fairs), where local artists make dolls for children. Art installations from Mongol Shovajatra can bridge cultural gaps and foster a deeper understanding of Bangladesh’s heritage and practices. I invite everyone to experience the joy and cultural richness the event brings. My goal is to create art that not only honors my heritage but also bridges cultural gaps and fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of our diverse world. Fariha Binta Khair