Art, craft highlighted at DU exhibition

The annual art exhibition of the Department of Craft at Dhaka University (DU) has opened, displaying 245 artworks created by 90 students.

Seven students received awards in different categories at the exhibition, according to a university press release.

The exhibition began at the Zainul Gallery of the Faculty of Fine Art. DU Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Prof Dr Muhammed Almuzaddade Alfasane inaugurated the event and later handed over certificates and crests to the award-winning students.

Speaking at the programme, Prof Almuzaddade said creative works by fine arts students could make a positive contribution to different sectors of society. He added that presenting such works on the international stage could help promote a positive image of Bangladesh around the world.

He also highlighted the country’s long artistic and cultural history, saying Bangladesh had a rich heritage spanning thousands of years. He stressed the need to identify traditional art forms found in rural areas and carry out research to preserve and develop them.

The relationship between art and science could also be an important area of research, he said, suggesting that studies should explore ways to bring the two fields closer.

Prof Almuzaddade also pointed to the role craft students could play in developing the country’s textile sector. He said they had opportunities to contribute to the industry and stressed the need to build stronger links between educational institutions and industries to make the most of their skills and knowledge.

Teachers, students, guardians, artists and cultural activists from the Faculty of Fine Art attended the event.