Fashion and photography exhibition unveiled at Alliance Française de Dhaka

In the heart of Dhaka, where the bustling streets and towering structures embody the city's rapid urbanisation, Piran Bangladesh, in collaboration with documentary photographer Rafid Al Zahur, has organised a captivating exhibition titled, "Needle, Thread and a Splash of Water" that weaves together the realms of fashion and photography. The exhibition has been unveiled at Alliance Française de Dhaka's La Galerie on August 11, 2023.

This exhibition shines a spotlight on the Beraid Slum community, who are navigating the tide of urbanisation with resilience and determination. Exceptionally gifted 22 female artisans from the Beraid Slum, located around the outskirts of Dhaka, have weaved their remarkable stories into a fashion collection of 15 dresses, which were showcased through a ramp show. 

"Due to urbanisation, the Beraid community is struggling to survive; as the rivers are being filled with sand and they have to sell their land at a cheap rate, the people, especially the women of the Beraid Slum community, are facing difficulties to find jobs and earn their livelihood," said Zarin Tasnim Reza, designer and co-founder of Piran Bangladesh, who has worked with female artisans of the Beraid Slum community in a series of eight workshops. 

Documentary photographer Rafid Al Zahur's evocative images lend a profound visual dimension to the exhibition. Through his lens, we are offered insights into the lives of the Beraid Slum community.

"I wanted to do something different. So, I tried to capture the raw emotions and resilience that define this community's journey. I didn't think about the outcome, rather I attempted to capture the moment just as it was," informed Rafid. 

As the doors to this fashion and photography exhibition open, we are invited to embark on a sensory journey—one that traverses the boundaries of fashion, photography, and human experience. Here, the photographs are placed next to the dresses crafted by the artisans of the Beraid Slum community, which are truly one-of-a-kind and capture the essence of their lives.

Zarin Tasnim Reza has relentlessly dedicated her time to work with these artisans, and photographer Rafid Al Zahur documented this entire process. Undoubtedly, Rafid Al Zahur's emotive storytelling has created a symphony of artistry and social impact. 

Distinguished guests namely Lipi Khandakar, Founder and Head Designer, Studio Bibiana Ltd., SK Saifur Rahman, General Secretary, National Crafts Council of Bangladesh, Bapon Rahman, Pioneer Makeover expert and interior décor artist and Md Abdul Karim, Executive Director, UCEP have graced the inaugural event.

"Needle, Thread and a Splash of Water" is not merely a display of fashion and photography—it is a mirror reflecting the transformative power of creativity and the resilience of the human spirit. So, do not miss the chance to view this extraordinary fusion of fashion and photography! Visit this exhibition at Alliance Française de Dhaka's La Galerie, which will continue till August 14, 2023.

Essentials —

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