On Tuesday, June 17 2014 at 6p.m, Daily Star-Bengal Arts Precinct hosted a discussion on ‘Sultan’s philosophy and artistry’. The discussion was a part of the Arts Precinct’s current exhibition, ‘Second Sight’, an exhibition of selected works by S.M. Sultan from the private collection of Abul Khair.

The conversation on ‘Sultan’s philosophy and artistry’ took place between three people who each knew the artist, Sheikh Mohammed Sultan well at different times of his life:

1. Mr. Enam A. Chaudhury, noted collector;
2. Mr. Mahbub Jamil Shamim, of Charupeeth, Jessore and
3. Jeevan Mozai Safori, an artist from Jessore

The conversation was followed by question-time with the audience.

Sultan’s strong personal philosophy influenced not only his life but also his art. All three discussants knew Sultan personally and the insights that they gained from their interactions with the artist was of great interest to contemporary audiences of the late artist’s work. The discussion and the following question-answer session was present not only as an opportunity to fulfill curiosity about Sultan’s later paintings, but also about the philosophy that underlies them.

In the selection of works and layout of the exhibition, our goal was not just to present significant and well known paintings but also to try to bring the audience closer to the artist himself. This conversation between close associates of the artist was another path to understanding Sultan’s work deeply.

The exhibition, ‘Second Sight’, was on view until 8 p.m. on July 13, 2014. The Arts Precinct remained closed on Sundays.