Arts Against Corona, a month-long special art exhibition by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA), was inaugurated on Tuesday putting the spotlight on the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the world.
The unique exhibition was inaugurated by Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen. State Minister for Cultural Affairs KM Khalid also joined the event as the special guest alongside the ministry’s Secretary Md Badrul Arefin and noted artist Jamal Ahmed.
“We’ve achieved worldwide appraisal and respect as a nation which always fought back against every unimaginable circumstance – a fact that has been again proven through this exhibition. All these mesmerising artworks showcase the talent and willpower of our noted and emerging artists who never stopped creating their crafts, even during this challenging and unprecedented time – which is incredible,” Momen said.
Praising the artists and Shilpakala’s constant activities during the shutdown and in recent times after its reopening, Khalid said the exhibition was “incredibly unique”, the likes of which has not been seen in any other country during this pandemic.
“Our heartiest gratitude to all the performing artists and Shilpakala Academy for arranging this special exhibition,” he said.
Presiding over the ceremony, BSA Director-General Liaquat Ali Lucky thanked all the artists-mentors and associates behind the exhibition. BSA Secretary Md Nawshad Hossain and artist Jamal Ahmed also spoke at the ceremony.
After the seminar session, BSA performers enthralled the audience with cultural performances.
A total of 150 artworks are being put on display at BSA’s Gallery 1 and 2 at the National Art Gallery. The selected artworks were created back in July at BSA’s special art camp.
The month-long ceremony is open for all till November 26 from 11am to 6pm. Visitors are requested to wear masks and follow health guidelines while visiting the exhibition.UNB