24th Young artists showcase talent at Shilpakala Academy

The inauguration ceremony of the 24th Young Artists' Art Exhibition 2025 was held on December 11 at the National Art Gallery Auditorium of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, celebrating emerging artistic talent from across the country.

Although the programme was scheduled to begin at 4 pm, it started at around 5:45pm.

Cultural affairs adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki inaugurated the exhibition as chief guest. Renowned artists Professor Dr Abdus Sattar and Professor Mostafizul Haque attended the event as guests of honour, while Mr Sheikh Rezauddin Ahmed, director general of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, presided over the ceremony.

Speaking at the event, Prof Abdus Sattar remarked on the persistent issue of delays at cultural programmes. "Whether in India or Bangladesh, ever since my youth, I have rarely seen a programme begin on time. Today was no different," he said.

Reflecting on the nature of art, he added that every country carries a distinct artistic identity. "You can often recognise where an artwork is from at first glance. Take Ravi Varma's 'Urvashi'—the story behind it alone could fill a book. Art is not just about visual admiration; every work carries a narrative."

He also underscored the importance of critical recognition, noting that Rabindranath Tagore's artworks gained value only after receiving acclaim at an exhibition in Paris. "Without that critical recognition, his works might have been discarded," he said.

In his address, Farooki apologised for arriving late and said he felt inspired by the young artists on display. "Competition can be both inspiring and unsettling for artists," he said. "But what truly matters is the personal signature in an artwork—just as a Van Gogh painting is instantly recognisable."

Drawing from his own experience as a filmmaker, Farooki said appreciation often validates an artist's purpose. "When I read a good review of my film, I feel reassured that perhaps this is why I was meant to make it. We often create to fill our own wounds and desires. Art, in that sense, is a healing process."

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He also offered a critical view of the academy's role, saying that Shilpakala Academy had not always treated all forms of art equally. "Shilpakala was meant to be a hub for every artist and every form of art. In that regard, it has fallen short," he said, adding that he hoped to return next year with an initiative to package selected works for international exposure.

Responding to the remarks, Sheikh Rezauddin Ahmed said the academy was committed to improvement. "We are working towards listening more carefully to the chief adviser's observations so that more young artists can find a platform here," he said.

Following the speeches, a prize-giving ceremony was held. Seven participatory honour prizes were awarded. Ashfiqur Rahman won the first prize, Sheema Mondol secured second place, and Noor-e-Ala Siddique received the third prize.

The evening concluded with guests visiting the galleries to view the exhibited artworks.

The exhibition will remain open to the public till December 22, daily from 11 am to 8 pm, at Galleries 2, 3, 4, 6 and 7 of the National Art Gallery.