Surrealism and the Subconscious: Zakia Khan Chandana’s Artistic Evolution

• Bangladeshi artist Zakia Khan Chandana held her 4th solo exhibition, 'Reality of the Subconscious Mind,' at the University of Dhaka.
• Inspired by Surrealist masters like Salvador Dalí and Giorgio de Chirico, Chandana explores human psyche, societal contradictions, and existential crises.
• The featured works represent two to four years of dedication, utilizing symbols and metaphors to depict survival, transformation, and the impermanence of existence.

Artistic Philosophy and Themes

• Surrealist Roots: The exhibition continues the 1920s French movement’s rejection of rational reality in favor of dreams, the subconscious, and Freudian psychology.
• Subject Matter: Moving beyond conventional landscapes, the art reaches from lithospheric layers to the vastness of the universe to capture continuous evolution.
• Societal Context: Amidst current global social conflict and emotional turmoil, the exhibition serves as a reflective mirror for viewers to consider the deeper truths of life.

Scholarly and Critical Reception

• Prof. Dr. Abdus Salam (Pro-Vice Chancellor, University of Dhaka): Praised Chandana as an internationally acclaimed artist capable of portraying the fragility of life and complex societal issues.
• Prof. Dr. Md. Abdus Sattar: Highlighted the artist's unique ability to feel deep inner thoughts and project societal conflicts onto the canvas.
• Dr. Azharul Islam Sheikh (Dean, Faculty of Fine Arts): Identified Chandana as a rare practitioner of true Surrealism in Bangladesh, noting her reliance on meditation and deep research to capture the transition of objects.

Artist Background and Credentials

• Career Milestones: Recipient of the 1998 Berger Young Artist Award and the 2000 Departmental Award for Experimental Art.
• Global Engagement: Selected for the 2002 Southeast Asian Young Artists Program (Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs); has exhibited in Toronto, Canada, and various venues in Dhaka.
• Current Status: Currently working at Scholastica School and College.