Syful Islam | The Revelation

Mohammad Syful Islam is a distinguished Bangladeshi origin artist, painter, calligrapher, and cultural organizer, widely recognized for his contributions to fine arts in Bangladesh. Born on 12 August 1946 in Meherpur, then part of British India, he developed a deep passion for classical Renaissance, Russian, and Islamic revolutionary paintings from an early age. He later pursued higher studies in fine arts at the Moscow School of Painting- Surikov Institute in 1975 through a special fellowship initiated by the father of the nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

Syful Islam is celebrated for his mastery in Islamic calligraphy, portrait paintings, landscapes, still life, and Bengali calligraphic art. He pioneered Islamic Calligraphy Painting in Bangladesh in 1982 and helped popularize it through national exhibitions and government commissions. His artworks include portraits of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Rabindranath Tagore along with international dignitaries including Queen Elizabeth II, Andrea Malraux and Ronald Reagan.

A gold medalist in Bangladeshi calligraphy, Syful Islam founded the Cezanne Art School and Cezanne Art Gallery in Dhaka in early 80's, nurturing generations of young artists. His artistic legacy continues to inspire the Bangladeshi art community through exhibitions, mentorship, and cultural leadership both at home and abroad. Currently he is residing in Canada and contributing to the local art community, especially in the field of Islamic Calligraphy paintings.  

This oil painting is inspired by the sacred moment of divine revelation in the Cave of Hira near Makkah, where the first verses of the Qur’an were revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The dramatic beam of light descending from the heavens symbolizes spiritual awakening, guidance, and the beginning of a transformative message for humanity. Through its serene nightscape, luminous calligraphy, and contemplative atmosphere, the painting conveys a deep sense of reverence, faith, and divine connection.