
Md. Iqbal Hossain
Born: 1977
Hometown: Dhaka
Based in: Mymensingh
Born: 1977
Hometown: Dhaka
Based in: Mymensingh
Iqbal Hossain's photographic work is a testament to his unique vision, where nature, villages, cities, people, social issues, and the complexities of our world are reinterpreted through a surrealist lens. Subjects captured within his viewfinder are liberated from their original contexts, transformed into new forms and endowed with profound significance.
His oeuvre, deeply influenced by the abstract arts of Cubism and Surrealism, transcends the boundaries of traditional photography. With remarkable skill, he seamlessly blends seemingly disparate elements – photographs and paintings, nature and the artificial, two-dimensional and three-dimensional, past and future, dreams and reality – into captivating works of art.
While his early career saw him delve into photojournalism, particularly focusing on climate change issues in Bangladesh, this period was not a departure from his artistic pursuits. Instead, it served as a crucible, honing his critical eye, decision-making skills, and providing invaluable experience that now fuels his creative endeavors.
His journey into photography began in 2014, inspired by the works of masters like Saul Leiter, Jean-Eugène Atget, and Aaron Siskind. He further honed his craft through a diploma program at Alliance Française de Dhaka.
In 2020, he achieved significant recognition, receiving the Gold Medal from the Asahi Shimbun Photography Excellence Award. His work has been exhibited extensively in Japan and online, showcasing his talent alongside that of other international photographers. In 2023 and 2024, his works graced the walls of Alliance Française de Dhaka's La Galleria.
Iqbal Hossain is a member of the Federation Internationale l'Art Photographique (FIAP) and the Photographic Society of America (PSA), further solidifying his position within the global photography community.
This revised text aims for a more concise and flowing narrative while retaining the key information about Iqbal Hossain's artistic journey and his unique approach to photography.
"Inner Voice" is a visual journey into the depths of the human psyche, exploring the complex interplay of thoughts, emotions, and memories. This series delves into the subconscious, where dreams, fears, and desires intertwine, creating a unique and often enigmatic landscape.
What inspires you?
Through the lens, I channel my inner emotions, transforming ordinary images into extraordinary pieces of art. Inspired by the power of visual storytelling, I strive to evoke empathy and introspection in viewers, inviting them to connect with the depths of human experience.
Describe your creative process.
I gather diverse materials from my surroundings, infusing them with artistic intent. Through experimentation and exploration, I transform these ordinary objects into extraordinary creations. My process is a blend of intuition and technique, guided by a desire to evoke emotion and challenge perceptions.
What are 3 words that best describe your work?
Expressive, Experimental, Evocative
Who are some artists that have influenced your work?
Ansel Adams, Dorothea Lange, Robert Frank, Diane Arbus, Cindy Sherman, Saul Leiter, Sebastiao Salgado, Abir Abdullah, Frida Kahlo, Salvador Dalí, Jackson Pollock
What is the most important tool when creating your work?
Camra, Broken Lens, Local Props
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
Seize the moment. Your best camera is always with you.
Where do you go for inspiration?
Nature is my best inspiration
Education
Alliance Francaise de Dhaka
Bangladesh, 2023
Alliance Francaise de Dhaka
Bangladesh, 2019
National University
Bangladesh, 2011
Awards
Best Author Delta Initiatives
2024
LifePressPhoto-International Salon of Reporter Photography
2021
Awarded from Lucie Foundation
2020
Gold Medal from Asahi Shimbun Award
2020
FIAP Honorable Mention, International Salon New York
2019
IAPC, GRAFIS International, Bulgaria.
2019
Bangladesh Photography Society-BPS
2019
Gold Medal, Mahfuzullah Memorial International Photo Contest
2019
Nominated for Harban award in Japan
2019
5 times Winner (Monthly), Bangladesh Photography Society-BPS
2019
2 times Awarded in 35 Awards, Russia
2019
(Top 24), 35 Awards
2019
Exhibitions
Contemplation
Bangladesh, 2024
Delta Initiatives
Bangladesh, 2024
Choloman Upakhyan
Bangladesh, 2023
Group Exhibition
Japan, 2020
Group Exhibition
Bangladesh, 2020
Group Exhibition by Srilankan Photographic Society
Sri Lanka, 2019