Shimul Saha (b. 1983) has firmly established himself as a vital presence in the contemporary visual arts scene of Dhaka, Bangladesh. His creative journey is characterized by an unwavering commitment to experimental research, pushing beyond the limitations of conventional art forms to produce deeply resonant visual narratives. Saha’s practice thrives on the principle of exploration, where varied materials, ideas, and influences merge, ultimately giving rise to distinctive bodies of work that challenge the viewer to engage on multiple levels.
At the heart of Saha’s artistic endeavors is his ability to draw from a wide range of influences—natural, social, biological, psychological, and political—which he skillfully translates into thought-provoking pieces of art. These multidisciplinary inspirations allow Saha to examine and portray the complexities of the human experience and the world around him. His work does not merely reflect these realities; it engages with them, creating a dialogue between the artist, the subject matter, and the viewer.
Shimul’s art is often rooted in his observations of the cultural, socioeconomic, and political landscapes that surround him. Through rigorous experimentation with various materials, including industrial elements and organic substances, he has developed a style that is not only innovative but also socially conscious. His pieces frequently challenge the status quo, drawing attention to pressing contemporary issues such as environmental degradation, political unrest, and the nuances of identity.
Beyond his personal artistic practice, Shimul Saha has made substantial contributions to the arts community in Dhaka and beyond through his curatorial work. As an assistant curator, Saha played a key role in major events such as Chobimela, one of the largest international photography festivals in Asia, and the Dhaka Art Summit, a pivotal platform for South Asian art. His expertise as a curator has extended to freelance projects, where he has independently curated a range of exhibitions that showcase both emerging and established artists. His involvement as a trustee of Britto Arts Trust further underscores his commitment to fostering artistic innovation and education in Bangladesh.
Saha’s passion for art education is also evident in his role as an educator at Pathshala South Asian Media Institute. Here, he nurtures the next generation of artists, helping them explore their creative potential while emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary research and experimentation—an ethos that has been central to his own practice.
In addition to his work as an educator and curator, Saha has participated in a number of prestigious artist residencies, including those at CICA (KHOJ, Delhi), Photo Kathmandu (Photo Circle, Kathmandu), Artel (TIFA, Pune), Taaza Tareen–VI (VASL, Karachi), and the Sandwich Residency Program (Sandwich, Kyoto). These residencies have broadened his artistic horizons, allowing him to exhibit his work both locally and internationally. His achievements were recognized in 2015 when he received an Honorable Mention at the 21st National Art Exhibition in Bangladesh.
Shimul Saha’s contributions to the world of contemporary art extend far beyond his own creations. Whether through his boundary-pushing artwork, his curatorial endeavors, or his dedication to teaching, Saha continues to inspire and influence a new generation of artists while leaving an indelible mark on the global art landscape.
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