Shah Alam was truly a Gifted Artist - S, Manzoorul Islam

Shah Alam Art Of Places And People Shah Alam is not a big name in art scene. I Don’t remember seeing his art work in any Dhaka gallery, or reading abut him in any art journal. But the work that he has done has unquestionable merit. I know it, s hazardous to write about an artist without a first hand Knowledge of his work. The exhibition brings together a range of Alam’s work- from sketches of individual figures to watercolors depicting the landscape and the varying seasons of Bangladesh. He is no doubt a gifted portrait artist, as a couple of portraits he has dong of Baul legend Shah Abdul Karim testify. He has a steady hand and can use pen, pencil or charcoal with control and flair. His line drawings are remarkably vibrant and sure, and he has a fine eye for detail. His watercolors are also resonant and translucent , in keeping with the essential properties of the medium.

 

That resonance is sometimes jarred when he uses loud and strong colors – a tendency Alam has to shun, since his paintings otherwise show fine composure and neatness of form. Shah alam is young and first learner. I am Sure if he is careful to avoid influence of any master, and seeks his own signatured style, he will be recognized In the ranks of successful artists.

He has the ability and the imagination and the necessary technical knowledge of the mediums. I am sure this exhibition will launch him on the way to achieving the recognition that he so obviously deserves. 

 

S, Manzoorul Islam

Dhaka University 

2 April 2009 

Post script: Sorry I had no idea that he had passed away … he was truly a gifted artist (test message)