Md Khalekuzzaman Shimul

A distinguished printmaker, Md Khalequzzaman Shimul delves into the intricate tapestry of human existence through his evocative artworks. The central purpose of his work lies in attending to the needs of those around us in our everyday lives, as well as in understanding how individuals prioritize various aspects and navigate through their existence.He works across various media, including woodcut, etching, aquatint, and lithography, but it is the recurring motif of scissors that captivates viewers and invites contemplation.
Shimul’s oeuvre revolves around the quotidian struggles faced by people—their resilience, aspirations, and silent battles. His work serves as a mirror reflecting the lives of garment workers, whose toil often goes unnoticed amidst the glamour of the fashion industry. Through his art, Shimul sheds light on their unwavering commitment and the delicate balance they maintain between survival and dignity.
Influenced by the Cubist movement, Shimul draws inspiration from Picasso’s iconic masterpiece, “Guernica.” Like Picasso, he dissects reality, presenting it in fragmented forms. The central element—the scissors—becomes a powerful symbol. These seemingly mundane tools represent both the mundane and the profound: the mundane stitching of garments and the profound interconnectedness of lives.
Shimul’s pen lines mimic the precision of a sewing machine, meticulously weaving narratives. Chaotic zigzag lines intersect, forming a chaotic web—the threads of existence. Each thread embodies an individual, fragile yet resilient. The canvas becomes a stage where their stories unfold, silently demanding recognition and justice.
While fashion houses dazzle with runway shows, Shimul reminds us of the hidden labor—the hands that cut, stitch, and shape. His scissors cut through complacency, revealing the fabric of our shared existence. These unsung heroes deserve acknowledgment and fair treatment. His art challenges us to see beyond the glitz and recognize the humanity behind the seams.
Awards:
Art Impact International Gallery (California)
Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (Dhaka)
Exhibitions:
Pandemic Inspirations Part 2 (2023), Balkan Congress Center Art Gallery, Edirne
The Image of the Other (2023), National Gallery of Art, Sofia
Honoring the Beauty of Sign Languages Around the World (2023), Art Impact International Gallery, San Diego
International Inspirations II (2022), Balkan Congress Center Art Gallery, Edirne
Towards the Future (2021), National Art Museum of China, Beijing
Ex Libris and Small Prints: A World of Art (2021), Odessa Fine Arts Museum, Odessa
Identity and Dialogue (2021), Bitola Museum, Bitola
Hope and Love, Love and Hope (2020), Studio 48 Gallery, Dhaka,
Here, There, and Everywhere: Eurasian Cities (2016), Asian Culture Center Gallery ,Gwangju,
Universal Aesthetic Language (2015), Bengal Gallery of Fine Arts, Dhaka,
Nature of Hill Racks (2011), Darjeeling Art Gallery, Darjeeling,
Roots of Aesthetics (2011), Asiatic Gallery of Fine Arts, Dhaka.