A 13-day special group art exhibition titled ‘Art Against Terrorism – BRAVE HEART’, began at Gallery Cosmos in the city on Friday, marking the National Mourning Day.
The reason for the hyphenation in the title is the twin-theme to this year’s August exhibition at Gallery Cosmos. Usually, in keeping with the time of the year, it commemorates the life of Bangabandhu (Friend of Bengal) Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
This year, to reflect the changing reality, it was felt a strong message against terrorism and militancy on behalf of the country’s artists should be included, especially after the July 1 terrorist attack in Gulshan.
Cultural Affairs Minister Asaduzzaman Noor inaugurated the exhibition as the chief guest at Gallery Cosmos, House-115, Lane-6, New DOHS, Mohakhali in the evening.
He also launched an exclusive book with artworks on Bangabandhu by 78 artists on the occasion.
In speech, the minister lamented that no strong reaction came from intellectuals although many big militant attacks were carried out in the country.
He also alleged that it has been possible to kill poets, litterateurs, writers, bloggers, religious priests and foreigners in the country as the previous government patronised militancy.
Noor underscored the need for creating a sense of culture to save the youth from being misguided.
He also stressed the importance of arranging more programmes on Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, saying he dreamt of non-communal Bangladesh and made others to dream so.
South Korean Ambassador in Dhaka Ahn Seong-doo, Cosmos Group Managing Director Enayetullah Khan and sculptor Ferdousi Priyabhashini also spoke on the occasion.
Noting that all of the world is suffering threat from terrorism, Ambassador Ahn said, “I think it’s very timely for Cosmos Gallery to hold this very important exhibition.”
He also lamented that Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib was killed in what was an act of terror, just four years into independence in 1975. “Even though he was sacrificed, we still keep his dreams and visions in our hearts. I think all his visions and dreams are reflected in the works by the artists,” said the South Korean envoy. Enayetullah Khan said Cosmos Gallery is “proud to provide a platform for artists arranging an exhibition against the terrorist attack that struck on July 1.” Ferdousi Priyabhashini said, “We will prevent militancy with what we do.” Cosmos Group Chairman Amanullah khan and artist Samarjit Roy Choudhury were also present. A total of 35 artworks of 35 artists have been put on display in the exhibition, while the book contains some 78 artworks on Bangabandhu by 78 artists. The exhibition will remain open from 12 pm to 8 pm every day till August 31.
