Sculpture's untold dialogue

Paul began his art education in Rajshahi under Amanullha Aman and Pronob Das. In Dhaka he had the guidance of teachers such as Abdus Razzaque and Hamiduzzaman Khan. There was a time when he greatly admired Henry Moore. While studying at the Department of Fine Arts, Dhaka University, the only difficulties he faced were the session jams.

Sometimes he sketches his works and at other times he makes small models of clay. He does this after his routine hours at a school. "In this particular display I've tried to depict homes, which shelter human beings. This, at times has unconsciously taken the shape of animals," says Paul. In the present exhibition he has used paper over packing material. This is because he has developed a problem in his back and cannot go into carving which is much more strenuous. Also, the material he has used is something he can afford. The creatures could be hippopotamus, dogs or some primeval beasts. The colours, blue, brown and pink are often that of the handmade paper that has been pasted on.

Commenting on the works, Hamiduzzaman Khan says, " The medium is cheap and has never been used before. Looking at the pieces they appear heavy and could even be taken for bronze creations. Thus there is an innovative development in Paul's work." Elaborating on sculpture not being popular in Bangladesh, Hamiduzzaman adds, " It is very difficult to make a living as a sculptor here in our country."

Manzere Hasin, the chief guest at the opening of the exhibition on the weekend, says, "The artist tries to work with a minimalistic attitude, which is welcome in our economic conditions. Earlier he had the same approach to his metal and cement works. This time the affect of architecture is prominent in the creations."

Moinuddin Khalid, giving his views on Paul's work, says, " There is a reference to the indigenous homes in the sculpture pieces. There is an element of animation in the works which is not found in ordinary everyday architecture. The constructions are unconventional as the shapes of the suggested homes also appear like some animals that appear to be wanting to talk to you. There is a silent dialogue between the viewer and the sculpture pieces. In the details you sometimes find a broken door or a window or even an arch."