Jamal Ahmed is well known to those who follow the contemporary Bangladesh art scene. Long established as one of Bangladesh's leading painters, he is in a class of artists now becoming known outside Bangladesh as well. His work may not have reached the revered heights of a Shahbuddin or SM Sultan, but those who collect Jamal know he is certainly on the ascendency.

   What we find admirable about Jamal is his willingness to donate his time and art for a good cause. This year, the Bangladeshi focused human rights group, Drishtipat, hosts a series of Arnob concerts in the US, Canada and UK to raise funds for its programs . Jamal has stepped forward himself, and his contribution of a number of artworks form the backbone for an exclusive art acution in the Chicago suburbs on August 23rd. Featured artists include Jamal as well as other contemporary Bangladeshi painters such as Kanak Chapa Chakma and Moniruzzaman.

   Here are some of the paintings Jamal is making available for the auction. We are keeping my fingers crossed that the artist, now in the US on a personal visit, may even stop into Chicago on the 23rd!

   if you are interested in the art auction, please write to info@chicago.drishtipat.org or contact Rafiq Ahmed/Nancy Ali on facebook.