Preface by François Grosjean, Director, Alliance Française de Dhaka

Preface by François Grosjean, Director, Alliance Française de Dhaka It is a distinct pleasure and honor to present the second solo exhibition of Masudur Rahman, titled “Journey of Cosmos,” here at Alliance Française de Dhaka. This exhibition is a profound reflection of our commitment to promoting cultural dialogue and artistic expression, which are the cornerstones of our institution’s mission. Masudur Rahman’s journey as an artist is deeply rooted in his exploration of the vastness and emptiness that characterize human consciousness. His works traverse the intricate interplay between form and formlessness, presenting a duality that is intrinsic to life itself. Through “Journey of Cosmos,” Rahman offers us a window into his contemplative and philosophical approach to art, where the cosmic and the earthly converge in a seamless dance of abstraction and embodiment.

Rahman’s early forays into poetry and theater were pivotal in shaping his artistic vision. Born in Bakerganj, Barisal, his initial devotion to poetry, under the guiding light of his mother, laid the foundation for his creative journey. The flow of life, with its creation and destruction, akin to the ebb and flow of a river, deeply influenced his understanding and expression of existence. This understanding eventually drew him into the world of painting, where he found a new medium to express his profound thoughts and experiences.

His academic pursuit in the Art Department of Dhaka University, where he completed his honors and master’s in oriental art, further honed his skills and deepened his engagement with art. His active involvement in the Chobir Hut movement, a significant initiative by Bangladesh’s Charu artists, highlights his dedication to the arts community. The collaborative efforts with Israt Jahan Kakan at Manabhumi Art Space further enriched his artistic practice, providing a platform for deeper exploration and engagement with art.

Masudur Rahman’s art is a celebration of humanity. He draws inspiration from human expressions, desires, dreams, and tastes, reflecting his deep admiration for people. His full-time dedication to this practice is evident in his works, where he seeks to experience the universe within individuals and depict their journey through the vastness of existence. His art captures the essence of life’s duality, where form and formlessness coexist, embodying the earthly and the cosmic.

In Rahman’s own words, “The sense of vastness and space that is always awake in the mind of man gives immense depth to his creation, love, and life. This infinite emptiness is our basic form. I am created from within that void, once in form and once in formlessness. This dual form of shape and formlessness is ‘life,’ and this is how my artwork is an expression of embodiment and abstraction.”

At Alliance Française de Dhaka, we are committed to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community where art and culture thrive. Rahman’s “Journey of Cosmos” is a testament to this commitment, as it invites viewers to engage with art that transcends boundaries and explores the profound interconnectedness of human existence and the universe. His portrayal of nature, where rivers, fields, forests, and horizons merge with human consciousness, offers a unique perspective that resonates deeply with our mission to celebrate artistic innovation and cultural exchange.

We are thrilled to host “Journey of Cosmos” at La Galerie and extend our heartfelt congratulations to Masudur Rahman for his exceptional contribution to the arts. This exhibition promises to inspire, provoke thought, and provide a deeper understanding of the vast and intricate nature of our existence. I invite all art enthusiasts, students, professionals, and the general public to immerse themselves in this captivating journey. Welcome to Alliance Française de Dhaka and the “Journey of Cosmos.” May this exhibition deepen your appreciation for the intricate and expansive nature of our existence.

Francois Grosjean

Director, Alliance Française de Dhaka