Hakimpur: President Mohammed Shahabuddin has paid profound tributes to the memory of Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin on the occasion of his 49th death anniversary, saying his creativity and humanism continue to inspire the new generation. In a message issued today, the President said the paintings of Zainul Abedin, the precursor of modern art in Bangladesh, vividly portray the struggles, suffering, and resilience of ordinary people as well as the beauty of rural Bangladesh.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Head of the State highlighted that Zainul Abedin’s artistic works reflect the indomitable spirit and relentless struggle of the people of rural Bengal against all kinds of harsh conditions. The President described the internationally acclaimed artist as a pioneer of the modern art movement in Bangladesh, emphasizing that his timeless masterpieces, including ‘The Famine Sketches,’ ‘Nobanna,’ and ‘Manpura,’ have earned worldwide appreciation and recognition.
The President further mentioned that Zainul Abedin was honored with the title ‘Shilpacharya’ (Master of Arts) for his extraordinary artistic vision and creative genius. He noted that the Government Art Institute, now the Faculty of Fine Arts on the Dhaka University campus, was established in 1948 under the initiative of Zainul Abedin, who subsequently served as its founding principal. Additionally, the ‘Folk Art Museum’ in Sonargaon and the ‘Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin Sangrahashala’ in Mymensingh were established through his dedicated efforts.
President Shahabuddin expressed hope that Zainul Abedin’s artistic works, ideals, creativity, and humanistic spirit will continue to inspire the younger generation to become more humane, culturally enriched, and patriotic.