JT International Bangladesh (JTIB) unveiled the exhibition “Blossoms of Existence,” celebrating the longstanding cultural connection between Japan and Bangladesh
MWB Desk
The curated exhibition consisted of captivating artworks by Bangladeshi artists Rokeya Sultana and Maksuda Iqbal Nipa, who are deeply inspired by Japanese culture, philosophies, and art techniques. The exhibition explores human experience and spiritual enlightenment aiming to create a sense of harmony, purpose, and fulfillment.
Salman Fazlur Rahman MP, Advisor to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh on Private Industry and Investment, and Iwama Kiminori, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Bangladesh inaugurated the art exhibition on Thursday, May 9, 2024 at the Embassy of Japan in Bangladesh.
“This exhibition is a testament of the friendship and cultural ties between Bangladesh and Japan. Japan has been a true and time-tested friend of Bangladesh and has supported development across multiple sectors including the arts and culture. I applaud JT International Bangladesh for this initiative and look forward to strengthening the ties between the two friendly nations.” ~ Salman F Rahman, MP
“The cultural exchange between Japan and Bangladesh will be a very effective instrument in strengthening bilateral relations. This exhibition not only showcases artistic talent but also embodies the spirit of collaboration and mutual understanding.” ~ Iwama Kiminori, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Bangladesh
“We have been celebrating Bangladeshi artists with a Japanese connection since our inception, through the landmark investment in 2018. We have been organizing art exhibitions and supporting the learning of Japanese language in Bangladesh since 2022 and hope to continue investing in Japanese culture in Bangladesh.” ~ Paul Holloway, Managing Director of JTIB
The inauguration ceremony was also attended by guests from the government, business, art, media, and other dignitaries in Bangladesh.
Rokeya Sultana, a trailblazer in the art world, has achieved international acclaim for her unique printmaking and painting techniques. Her journey as the first female artist from Bangladesh to be honored with a Fulbright scholarship and an Asian Art Biennial award is testament to her pioneering spirit and artistic prowess. Her exhibitions across the globe, from the Tokyo International Mini-Print Triennial to prestigious galleries in Poland, Germany, Egypt, and the USA, reflect a commitment to a universal language of art that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Maksuda Iqbal Nipa, another luminary in the field, has been recognized for her exceptional talent with accolades such as the Best Award for Oil Painting and the International Friendship Award. Her artistic evolution, influenced by the works of Kandinsky and Mondrian, showcases a deep engagement with the abstract and the spiritual, culminating in a body of work that challenges and inspires.
The “Blossoms of Existence” exhibition was not merely a display of artistic talent but a curated experience designed to kindle a passion for purposeful living. It was a visual narrative that wove together the cultural, philosophical, and spiritual tapestries of Japan and Bangladesh, creating a harmonious blend that speaks to the soul. The exhibition stood as a beacon of hope and inspiration, urging us to lead lives imbued with meaning and balance.
The masterpieces on display were an invitation to contemplate the essence of existence, to appreciate the beauty that arises from the fusion of diverse cultures, and to recognize the timeless relevance of art as a medium for understanding and connection. The works that found a home in the curated collection of JTIB continue to spark conversations and ignite the imagination, proving that art knows no bounds and that its power to unite and uplift is infinite. The “Blossoms of Existence” was more than an exhibition; it was a celebration of life, legacy, and the enduring bond that art can forge between souls and societies.
The exhibition was open to the public from 10 May till 16 May at the Annex Building, Embassy of Japan in Bangladesh, Dutabash Rd, Baridhara, Dhaka 1212.
