Dhaka’s art scene has welcomed a new institution, the Priyo Bangla Art Gallery, which inaugurated its space in Banglamotor with a special group exhibition.
The venture is led by Mehrin Hossain, the Executive Director known for founding Mati fashion house, and convened by the esteemed artist Kazi Kibria. The inaugural show, running for two weeks from September 20, serves as a tribute to the legacy of the late artist and sculptor Hamiduzzaman Khan.
The exhibition showcases a diverse collection of 45 pieces from 30 artists, featuring both paintings and sculptures. The roster includes celebrated names such as Abdus Sattar, Abdul Mannan, Ivy Zaman, Wahid Zaman, and Mohiuddin Ahmed.
Visitors can appreciate a range of artistic styles and subjects. Highlights include Abdus Sattar’s woodcut print “Nature,” which delves into the intricate textures of red water lilies, and Abdul Mannan’s serene acrylic landscape of the same name. Samar Majumder’s “Friends” captures a moment of shared conversation between two women, while Mohiuddin Ahmed’s “The Elephant” presents a detailed ink drawing inspired by folk art traditions.
According to convener Kazi Kibria, the gallery’s core mission is to champion new and rising talents in the Bangladeshi art world. “We intend to create opportunities for young artists by hosting their solo exhibitions in an engaging and personal environment,” he stated. Future ambitions for the space include organizing art camps, workshops, and establishing a dedicated art library.
The works on display were largely conceived during a two-day workshop held in Gazipur last February. The exhibition is scheduled to conclude its run today.