Art in Motion: Baachy Explores Time’s Ticking Journey in ‘100’ Solo Exhibition
Ahmed Azmee, better known as Baachy, a self-taught and nationally recognised artist, has once again captured the imagination of art enthusiasts with the launch of his latest exhibition, 100. Held at the National Art Gallery, this solo showcase opened last night, offering visitors a remarkable experience of mixed media artistry infused with symbolism and meticulous craftsmanship.
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Baachy, who was awarded the prestigious National Award in Fine Arts last year, is no stranger to pushing creative boundaries. Through 100, he presents a unique exploration of time, displaying an array of 35 artworks, majority featuring functioning clocks, drawing attention to the constant and unyielding passage of time. In his own words, Baachy describes life as a "canvas," through these intricately crafted pieces, he invites viewers to reflect on the transient nature of moments, emotions, and experiences.
Time as a Central Theme
"My art reveals a more vivid and bold side of me—one deeply inspired by the world and its hidden beauty," Baachy explains. His unique vision is on full display in 100, where time becomes a recurring motif. The exhibition takes its name from incorporating 100 clocks across the collection. Each clock represents the delicate interplay between time, chaos, and order.
The paintings feature hand-poured acrylics, abstract forms, flowing colours, and various mediums, creating a sensory experience that encourages introspection on the essence of time itself. Mixed media, including sculptures, adds a tactile dimension, solidifying Baachy's reputation for transcending genres and forms.
Through this collection, Baachy seeks to explore "time and its profound connection to life." As he puts it, "Time moves continuously, yet each clock offers a unique rhythm, much like the paths we walk in life."
From Vibrant Colours to Minimalism
Baachy's artistic journey began long before this exhibition. His debut collection, ENIGMA, was launched in 2017 at the LeCute Store in Malé. The showcase featured a departure from the conventional art scene, incorporating fluid art and vibrant acrylic paintings. The success of ENIGMA led to a second exhibition in 2018 at the National Art Gallery, where Baachy exhibited over 180 works, many of which were sold—affirming his place as an up-and-coming artist in the Maldives.
In contrast, his 2022 exhibition, HUDHU, took a more minimalist approach. Stepping away from his characteristic kaleidoscopic palette, Baachy's collection consisted entirely of white. Named after the Dhivehi word for "white," the collection symbolised purity, simplicity, and clarity, demonstrating Baachy's versatility and willingness to experiment with different styles.
A Journey Through Time: 100 Exhibition
Baachy's latest exhibition, 100, builds on his history of dynamic and innovative showcases and marks a new chapter in his artistic evolution. Blending visual art and functional objects like clocks offers a distinctive narrative, inviting viewers to consider their own passage through time.
By integrating both visual art and functional timepieces, Baachy explains that 100 "invites viewers to reflect on their journey through time—how it influences decisions, memories, and experiences." Through his carefully crafted pieces, Baachy encourages the audience "to pause, observe, and consider the passage of time, not just as an abstract concept, but as an ever-present force that governs and connects us all."
Exhibition Details
The 100 exhibition will be open to the public at the National Art Gallery from 16th September to 24th September. The gallery will welcome visitors from Saturday to Thursday between 10:00 AM and 10:00 PM and Friday from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The gallery will be closed during prayer times.
Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the intricate beauty of 100, where time itself becomes a canvas for artistic exploration.