Born in the peaceful rural landscapes of Chandpur, Matlab, Md. Ziaur Rahman, freelance artist believes that every child is born an artist. His journey into the world of art began not with formal training, but with a profound curiosity and a steady passion for nature’s wonders.
Drawn to the lively tones of watercolors, Ziaur Rahman found in them a medium perfectly suited to capture the impressions of nature. It was through his solitary exploration with water paints that he first explored his artistic voice in 2009. Yet, his artistic journey truly began earlier, sparked by a humble sale of his first painting—a riverside scene—for a mere 50 Taka in 2005.
His path to formal art education led him to Narayanganj Charukola and later to UODA University for his masters, where he encountered many influences beyond academia. The defining moment came in 2004 when he acquired a catalog from a Joynul Abedin’s exhibition, a cherished source of inspiration that continues to inform his artistic perspective.
In his most recent exhibition, “INNER SPEED,” Ziaur Rahman boldly explores themes of strength and speed through evocative depictions of bulls and horses. These majestic creatures, symbolic of flexibility and vitality, serve as metaphors for the human spirit’s capacity to go beyond adversity—particularly striking in the face of the challenges of a pandemic-ridden world.
He said, “”People are creating their own pandemic through war and destruction.” He emphasized how these man-made pandemics, born out of war and destruction, pose a greater danger than natural ones.
This solo exhibition at Alliance de Française La Galerie in Dhanmondi presents a compelling array of paintings dominated by bulls and horses, rendered vividly in acrylic colors on large canvases. These animals, though depicted in stillness, convey a sense of dynamic motion—an artistic paradox that Rahman skillfully explores.
For Rahman, each brushstroke symbolizes a form of speed, reflecting the great energy required to go through life’s challenges. Inspired by his personal journey during the Covid-19 pandemic, his artworks express resilience in the face of uncertainty and the stagnation of global crises.
Raised among bulls and cows on his family’s farm in Chandpur, Rahman’s deep connection to these animals informs his art profoundly. They serve as powerful symbols in his work—symbols of resistance against injustice and emblems of quiet strength during adversity.
Each painting is a blend of amazing colors and textures, carefully crafted to stir deep emotions.
One canvas features a thoughtful bull against warm, fiery tones, while another depicts a peaceful bull against cool hues of purple and lavender, decorated with detailed patterns that enhance its regal presence. Rahman’s exhibition not only showcases his technical skill but also encourages viewers to understand themes of strength and optimism.
Each artwork tells a story of perseverance and resolve, providing a contemplative space where art celebrates the human spirit’s ability to endure and grow.
Ziaur Rahman sees art not just as a personal journey, but as a profound responsibility to inspire and educate. He said,
Ziaur Rahman sees art not just as a personal journey, but as a profound responsibility to inspire and educate. He said,
He believes passionately in the transformative power of practice and dedication, echoing the ethos instilled in the students of Charukala—where rigorous study and boundless passion are promised as the keys to success.
Surrounded by a growing appreciation for art in Bangladesh, Ziaur Rahman remains profoundly influenced by local luminaries like Rafiqun Nabi and MD Yunus, while also fostering hope in the emerging talents of younger artists. Through his art, he seeks to infuse strength and courage in his audience, providing a visual haven where the transformative power of art prevails over adversity.
As Rahman continues to impact and be impacted by Bangladesh’s art scene, his commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent and praising the transformative power of creativity remains strong.
His feelings echo a call to see art not just as a personal journey but as a deep responsibility—a duty to inspire, make people think, and ultimately shine a light on human experiences through visual expression.
Through his own art and mentorship, Rahman invites viewers and students alike to explore the transformative potential of creativity, to not only perceive beauty but also to challenge perceptions, provoke introspection, and forge connections. In this way, Rahman’s journey continues to inspire and light up, enriching the art of Bangladesh and beyond.
