Dhaka: US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen emphasized the robust cultural connection between Bangladesh and the United States through art during an event honoring Ekushey Padak-winning artist Dr. Rokeya Sultana at Gallery Cosmos in the capital. He commended the vitality and creativity of Bangladesh’s art scene and acknowledged the role of cultural exchange programs like the Fulbright in fortifying ties between the two nations.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the event, organized by Gallery Cosmos and House of Solis at Garden Gallery in Baridhara, displayed artworks produced during a workshop at Cosmos Atelier71. The gathering brought together artists, organizers, and art enthusiasts to reflect on the learning and collaboration promoted by the program. Ambassador Brent T. Christensen, accompanied by his wife Ms. Deanne Dao, was the chief guest at the event.
Christensen expressed his pleasure in attending the celebration of the acclaimed artist and thanked the organizers for arranging the event. He shared how he and his wife have long admired Bangladeshi art and artists, recounting their early encounters with Dr. Sultana’s work during a previous visit to Dhaka.
The ambassador was particularly thrilled to learn about Dr. Sultana’s Fulbright experience at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, a place he had also spent several years. He highlighted the significance of ongoing art exchanges and the role of Bangladeshi artists in teaching and inspiring future generations, underscoring the benefits of cultural ties for both countries and the global art community.
Nahar Khan, founder of House of Solis and experiential partner for the event, spoke about the importance of the workshop and the creative exchange it fostered. She emphasized the necessity for art spaces to create experiences and community, celebrating mentorship, knowledge sharing, and artistic continuity.
Cosmos Gallery Director Tehmina Enayet elaborated on the gallery’s mission to provide a platform for artistic practice and collaboration. She noted that Atelier71 has become a hub for printmaking and creative experimentation, hosting numerous workshops and exhibitions to support young artists and expand their horizons.
Professor Rokeya Sultana, reflecting on her artistic journey, underscored the importance of knowledge sharing and praised the young artists who participated in the workshop. US Ambassador Christensen also presented a crest to Dr. Sultana, recognizing her contributions to the arts.
The event was attended by notable figures including Dr. Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury, former foreign minister, and Ambassador Farooq Sobhan, a longtime patron of the arts.