HSBC presents Dhaka Makers’ Week started

On Saturday, 24th June 2023, Dhaka Makers began its inaugural event HSBC presents Dhaka Makers' Week at Aloki, located in the heart of Dhaka city, in Tejgaon.

Dhaka Makers emerged with a vision to help the creative communities of Dhaka through a  one-of-a-kind arts and crafts festival that would provide an opportunity for independent creators to establish their brands, collaborate with fellow artists, and share their expertise with a wide array of audiences.

The inauguration ceremony was held on the first day, and was initiated by the team, which comprises creative inspired artists and doers - Fahd Sattar, Istela Imam, Maruful Hoque, Fairose Yasmin, Maleena Gomez, Tahsin N. Choudhury, Mahenaz Chowdhury, Umaila Akhter, Zafir Huq, Taiara Farhana Tareque, and Mariha Q. Chowdhury. After the speeches given by the esteemed guests, Anusheh Anadil and Durjoy Rahman, the ceremony was followed by a live performance by Bengal Parampara Sangeetalay.

Through the first-ever Dhaka Makers' Week, the team took their first step in fostering the local arts and culture scene through an offline platform that engages artists from all creative spheres. Their objective was to create a vibrant and inclusive environment that celebrates the city's innovative talent through thoughtfully curated spaces – where the "Makers" or collective artisans were able to exhibit their work, sell their products, and conduct interactive workshops. From young children and adults to senior citizens, many had come to get a glimpse into the art scene of Dhaka. The venue was filled with excitement as many artists-turned-entrepreneurs had the opportunity to showcase and sell their work - a first-time for many. Dhaka Makers' Week has ensured visibility for these artists and their brands throughout the event, with an aim of providing an avenue for sustainable business practices.

The line up consisted of many creative minds who exhibited their works of art, illustrations, animations, sculpture, pottery, metal craft, ceramics, fashion apparel, jewelry, embroidery, wood craft, homeware, terrariums, photography, and so on. Workshops were conducted by professionals that allowed visitors to gain hands-on experience in different Bangladeshi art forms. The skills taught in these workshops ranged from Bangla typography, block-printing, graffiti, stop-motion animation, yoga, culinary arts, jewelry-making and so much more. Furthermore, the festivities were accompanied by live musical performances in the evenings by Kaaktaal and Hatirpool Sessions, and a variety of delicacies offered by up-and-coming culinary establishments.

The goal of Dhaka Makers' Week was to evoke a sense of belonging in people who already recognize the importance of preserving Bangladeshi art and heritage, and are environmentally conscious; and hoped to inspire festival-goers to explore their artistic potential, all the while supporting local creators.

Needless to say, Dhaka Makers has achieved just that, instilling the drive within the team to dream bigger for future events.