Zainul Abedin
Zainul Abedin was one of the greatest artists in the history of Bangladesh. He is often called the pioneer of modern art in the country. Born on December 29, 1914, in Kishoreganj, he showed a deep interest in art from an early age. He later studied at the Government School of Art in Kolkata (then Calcutta), where he developed his skills and gained recognition for his talent.
One of Zainul Abedin’s most famous works is the Famine Sketches, drawn in 1943. These powerful black-and-white sketches captured the pain and suffering of the people during the Bengal famine. Through these drawings, he showed the cruel reality of poverty and hunger, touching the hearts of many. These artworks brought him national and international fame.
After the Partition in 1947, Zainul Abedin moved to Dhaka and played a major role in developing art education in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). He founded the Institute of Fine Arts (now Faculty of Fine Arts at Dhaka University) in 1948, which became the center of art and culture in the country.
Zainul Abedin loved Bangladeshi traditions, nature, and rural life. His artworks often reflected the beauty of village life, folk culture, and the struggles of common people. He believed art could be a tool for social change.
He passed away on May 28, 1976, but his contributions to Bangladeshi art and culture remain unforgettable. Zainul Abedin is not just an artist—he is a symbol of our national pride and creativity.
