Shyamal Mukherjee (b. 1961, Kolkata) is a contemporary Indian artist rooted in the figurative tradition of the Bengal School, reinterpreted through a modern, ironic lens. A graduate of Rabindra Bharati University in Santiniketan, Mukherjee is known for his signature reverse oil and acrylic paintings on transparent acrylic sheets—a medium he remains devoted to.
His vibrant, character-driven works often depict street performers, beggars, and everyday individuals, capturing both their theatrical personas and underlying pathos. Through exaggerated features and rich, gaudy colors, Mukherjee explores themes of identity, shared human behavior, and social commentary. Despite the individuality of each figure, his compositions often emphasize our collective experiences.
A lifelong resident of Kolkata who speaks only Bengali, Mukherjee draws inspiration from solitary travel and the people he observes. Beyond painting, he is passionate about teaching children and preserving rural Bengali crafts, reflecting his deep connection to culture and community
