Biography
Sanjoy Chakraborty is a prominent artist from Chittagong, Bangladesh, and an Assistant Professor at the Department of History of Art, University of Dhaka. His creative journey and academic pursuits reflect a profound engagement with the complexities of identity politics, history, and nationalism in the South Asian subcontinent.
Born and raised in a region steeped in historical and cultural intersections, Sanjoy's work is deeply influenced by the tensions of Partition and the socio-political struggles that have shaped modern Bangladesh. He graduated from Rabindra Bharati University, Kolkata, in 2009, where his experiences of being labeled an "outsider" due to his Bangladeshi roots intensified his interest in identity and belonging. These encounters highlighted the intricate ways in which borders—geographical, cultural, and societal—shape perceptions of self and otherness.
Sanjoy’s artistic practice spans multiple disciplines, including painting, performance art, site-specific installations, illustrations, art historical research, writing, and teaching. A recurring theme in his work is the use of the color red, symbolizing unity and equality amidst conflict. Sanjoy explains that "red is not just a color; it becomes a narrator of social and political issues," inviting audiences to rethink their perspectives on identity, division, and humanity.
His exploration of identity is not limited to the South Asian context. He delves into global dynamics, comparing the politics of race and caste in the West and Asia. This transregional perspective has led him to view Indian modernity as inherently trans-local, drawing connections between the shared histories of Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan.
Sanjoy’s return to Bangladesh in 2009 marked a deepened engagement with his homeland's political and cultural narratives. He was particularly moved by the Shahbagh Movement, the Liberation War Museum, and the Mongol Shobhajatra procession, all of which resonate with themes of resistance, revolution, and secularism. These inspirations have enriched his artistic voice, blending aesthetics with political commentary.
Sanjoy Chakraborty’s works, often rendered in striking red, have been showcased in diverse contexts, challenging audiences to confront issues of nationalism, borders, and identity. His art and research continue to inspire dialogues on unity and equality, bridging historical and contemporary realities through a critical, poetic lens.