From July 5th to September 3rd, Bengal Shilpalay in Dhaka presents “Monon Khonon” (Unearthing the Archaic) a compelling visual art exhibition featuring the work of esteemed artist Wakilur Rahman. This installation-based exhibition invites audiences to get into the rich cultural heritage of the delta region through Rahman’s innovative artistic approach.
Wakilur Rahman is celebrated for his ability to blend traditional Bengali elements with contemporary art practices.
In “Monon Khonon,” Rahman draws inspiration from the delta’s unique topography, indigenous materials, and traditional techniques. His art incorporates elements such as water, clay, and boats, alongside the depth of the Bengali language, to create a visual language that connects local traditions with a global context.
The Bengal Arts Program presents this exhibition with the aim of capturing the essence of the delta region’s natural and cultural landscape. Rahman’s work reflects the profound impact of the region’s environment, its vast water bodies, fertile soils, and the winds sweeping across the plains, on local creativity. He highlights the complex relationship between nature and artistic expression by integrating these elements into his installations.
“Monon Khonon” provides an in-depth exploration of the region’s rich material culture and spiritual heritage.
Rahman gets into the historical and spiritual layers embedded in local artistic traditions, seeking to uncover and understand their deeper significance.
Through his work, he sheds light on how ancient materials and traditional techniques not only preserve the past but also actively influence and shape the course of contemporary art. Wakilur Rahman’s career spans several decades and continents. He is a graduate of Dhaka University’s Faculty of Fine Arts and the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing.
With over fifty solo exhibitions across China, Bangladesh, and Germany, Rahman brings a wealth of experience to his current work. His roles as a curator and visiting faculty member further enrich his perspective, making “Monon Khonon-Unearthing the Archaic” a deeply personal and culturally significant exploration.
