Asian Art Exhibition begins today

Prime Minister Khaleda Zia is expected to inaugurate the exhibition as the chief guest.

A total of 250 paintings of 177 artists from 32 countries, including 194 works of 152 artists of Bangladesh, will be on display at the 27-day Asian art exhibition.

At a press conference at the Chitrashala Bhaban of Shilpakala Academy yesterday, State Minister for Cultural Affairs Selima Rahman gave an overview of arrangements of the exhibition.

The exhibition will take place at the Jatiya Chitrashala of Shilpakala Academy, Osmani Memorial Hall and Bangladesh National Museum.

Cultural Secretary ATM Ataur Rahman, Director General of Shilpakala Academy Ahmed Nazir, Director General of National Museum Prof Mahmudul Haque, Joint Secretary of Cultural Ministry Abdur Razzak and Additional Principal Information Officer Sanat Kumar Biswas were present at the conference, among others.

Three paintings, selected by a jury board, will get best awards. Each award carries a cash of Taka one lakh, while some art works will garner honorary prizes.

Selima Rahman said the first Asian exhibition was held in 1981 which was inaugurated by President Ziaur Rahman.

From then on the exhibition is held as a cultural festival for Asian artists.