About Me
My name is Jayanta John, and I am a Bangladeshi visual artist with a deep passion for painting, drawing, and exploring the expressive depths of contemporary art. My artistic journey began in childhood, shaped and inspired by my surroundings and early training. Over the years, this journey has evolved into a career grounded in both academic excellence and creative experimentation.
I hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts [MFA & BFA] in Drawing & Painting from the University of Development Alternative (UODA). Before that, I completed a 5-year Certificate Course in Drawing & Painting from the Bulbul Academy of Fine Arts (BAFA), Dhaka, in 2008 — a foundational phase that refined my skills and broadened my understanding of classical and modern techniques.
Throughout my career, I have participated in numerous national and international exhibitions and have been recognized with multiple prestigious awards. One of my most cherished accolades is the "Grand Award" at the 5th Tone International Miniature Art Biennale 2015 held in Dhaka, organized by the Tone Art Society of Bangladesh.
In 2012, I received an Honorable Mention Award at the 18th Young Artists Art Exhibition organized by the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. I’ve also been honored internationally, most notably during the KAHAL Art Competition & Exhibition 2014 held in Tokyo, Japan, which was part of a cultural exchange between Japan and Bangladesh.
My works have been showcased in key group exhibitions such as:
- 16th Asian Art Biennale Bangladesh 2014,
- Dhaka Art Summit 2018, 2012, organized by Samdani Art Foundation,
- Liberation War Art Exhibition 2013 commemorating 100 years of the National Museum, and
- Multiple editions of the Artist Rashed Memorial Exhibitions, among many others.
I have also received awards from diverse organizations, including WaterAid Bangladesh (2014), the Chronicle of Bangladesh Art Exhibition (2009), and several honors from Shilpi Rashed Smriti Parishad and BAFA. My early accomplishments include winning 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards in the Inter-Branch Annual Art Exhibitions at BAFA from 2003 to 2005.
My international exposure began with the 11th Contemporary Young Artist Exhibition in Ginza, Tokyo (2008) and continues through active participation in cultural exchanges and exhibitions abroad.
As an artist, I see my practice as a continuous dialogue between memory and history, between identity and society. My work is often rooted in themes of human experience, social reflection, and emotional depth, rendered through various techniques across painting and mixed media.
I remain actively engaged in exhibitions, workshops, and artistic collaborations, continually seeking to grow and contribute meaningfully to the evolving landscape of South Asian contemporary art.