Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh, is a city steeped in cultural heritage and artistic expression. For art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike, the city’s array of art galleries offers a window into the vibrant creative spirit that defines Dhaka. Here are some of the premier art spaces that contribute to the city’s dynamic art scene.
Edge Gallery
Located in the heart of Dhaka, Edge Gallery is renowned for showcasing meaningful artworks and sculptures. The gallery not only hosts exhibitions but also serves as a venue for private events that promote culture and foster creative talent. Revenue from these events supports Edge Education, an initiative aimed at ensuring equitable quality education for all. Recent exhibitions include ‘Jolokabbo 5: Musings in Watercolor’ and ‘Mounokolpo: Reverberance of Silence’.
Dwip Gallery
Since its inception in October 2018, Dwip Gallery has been a platform dedicated to promoting modern and contemporary art. Focused primarily on the emerging art scene, Dwip has staged numerous exhibitions, featuring over 1,500 artworks by more than 150 artists from across the country. The gallery also organizes artist talks alongside exhibitions, making it a magnet for artists, photographers, and art connoisseurs.
La Galerie at Alliance Française de Dhaka
La Galerie is one of the most renowned art exhibition spaces in Bangladesh and is open to all artists. Operating from Monday to Saturday, 3 pm to 9 pm, the gallery hosts more than 20 exhibitions and various events each year. As one of the oldest galleries in Dhaka, La Galerie continues to exhibit artworks that captivate visitors and provide moments of contemplation amid the city’s hustle and bustle.
National Sculpture Gallery
The National Sculpture Gallery stands as a vibrant platform dedicated to showcasing the finest sculptures and visual art from Bangladesh and around the world. Committed to fostering international artistic dialogue, the gallery has successfully organized multiple national and international exhibitions, featuring artists from countries such as Mexico, Indonesia, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. It serves as a center for innovation, conversation, and collaboration in the art community.
Dhaka Art Center
Situated in Dhanmondi, the Dhaka Art Center is committed to promoting contemporary art through exhibitions, workshops, and artist residencies. The center provides studio facilities for both amateur and established artists, supporting creative endeavors and fostering a vibrant art community. It also collaborates with other galleries and institutions to enrich the cultural landscape of Dhaka.
Bengal Gallery of Fine Arts
Established in 2000, the Bengal Gallery of Fine Arts has become a premier art gallery in Bangladesh. Housed in a beautifully renovated residential building in Dhanmondi, the gallery has hosted exhibitions showcasing works by over 250 local and international artists. Collaborating with official agencies from countries like India, China, Turkey, and the United Kingdom, the Bengal Gallery has played a significant role in promoting Bangladeshi art on the global stage.
Gallery Chitrak
As one of the oldest and most active art galleries in Dhaka, Gallery Chitrak offers over 3,500 square feet of exhibition space dedicated to displaying paintings and sculptures. Located in Dhanmondi, the gallery has been a cornerstone of the city’s art scene, providing a platform for both emerging and established artists to showcase their work.
Saju Art Gallery
Located in the Gulshan area, Saju Art Gallery has been exhibiting superb works of art by local and international artists for over three decades. The gallery is known for hosting the annual Grand Group Art Exhibition, featuring more than one hundred veteran and budding artists. This event has been instrumental in bringing new talent to light and offering visitors the opportunity to view works by legendary and avant-garde painters of Bangladesh.
Drik Gallery
Drik Gallery, situated in Panthapath, is a prominent space for art exhibitions in Dhaka. The gallery operates daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, providing a platform for artists to display their work and for art enthusiasts to engage with contemporary art. Drik Gallery is also involved in various cultural and social initiatives, contributing to the broader artistic and social discourse in Bangladesh.
Exploring these galleries offers a comprehensive insight into Dhaka’s rich artistic heritage and contemporary art scene. Each venue provides a unique perspective, reflecting the diverse and dynamic nature of art in Bangladesh.