When I was merely three, my mother, being a history major and a sibling to freedom fighters, took it upon herself to ingrain the Liberation War and the birth of Bangladesh into my mind. As a result, I grew up learning about "Shangshaptak", the legendary sculpture representing the spirit of our Liberation War, by the renowned sculptor Hamiduzzaman Khan. I felt like I had hit the jackpot when I got the opportunity to meet him and learn from him during my third semester of the Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) programme. Finally, 11 years later, I experienced an exhibition dedicated entirely to him.

The Bengal Arts Programme is paying tribute to our cherished sculptor Hamiduzzaman Khan by displaying a large collection of his sculptures, along with paintings, sketches, exhibition catalogues, and books on his art. The event was inaugurated on January 31 at Bengal Shilpalay in Dhanmondi and was curated by artist and art writer Mustafa Zaman. The director general of Bengal Foundation, Luva Nahid Choudhury; prominent Bangladeshi-Spanish artist Monirul Islam; and architect Mustapha Khalid Palash were among the guests present.

Monirul Islam in his speech asserted Hamiduzzaman as an honest artist whose dedication and unwavering spirit make him a rare gem. Mustapha Khalid Palash hoped that the simple yet thought-provoking work of the artist would help the younger generation reconnect to their roots. Curator Mustafa Zaman had worked with the artist for a long time. 

He mentioned, "Hamiduzzaman worked with the form and quality of objects, and has a unique approach to transforming the shapes of those objects. This exhibition is a reflection of the accumulated experience of this veteran sculptor, and as a curator, I tried to show the artist's creative vision and extensive artistic journey."

Born in Kishoreganj in 1946, Hamiduzzaman graduated from Dhaka Art College (now the Faculty of Fine Arts, Dhaka University) in 1967. He came under the mentorship of Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin, Abdur Razzaque, and 'Puppet Man' Mustafa Monwar. His transition from painting to sculpting was an indomitable journey, which ultimately led to his recognition as an international sculptor. He popularised the idea of sculpture parks in Bangladesh.

Some of his notable works include "Shangshaptak" at Jahangirnagar University, "Flying Bird" at the World Bank Dhaka office, "Jagrotobangla" in Brahmanbaria, "Freedom" at Krishibid Institute, "Peace Bird" at TSC, and "7th March" in Madaripur, among others.

The first-floor gallery at Bengal Shilpalay is filled with Hamiduzzaman's incredible sculptures. Some are small and adorable while others are ginormous and majestic. Upon being asked about the inspiration behind his smaller pieces he explained, "I enjoy exploring the forms of nature, and also the craftworks of our local artisans." The large acrylic paintings on display invoked a feeling of peace in me. There are also some concept sketches, books on his art, and catalogues from his previous exhibitions.

"Art and life are integrated" — this is Hamiduzzaman's philosophy. His geometric abstract and semiabstract art is a reflection of his thought process, his beautiful imagination, and his skilful craftsmanship. All his artworks are a testament to his contribution towards upholding the art and culture of this country on the international platform. 

The "Hamiduzzaman Khan" exhibition is an open book to knowing one of the greatest artists of Bangladesh and it will run at Bengal Shilpalay until March 15, 2025.

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