The Neighbourhood Art Space at Aloki buzzed with artistic fervor as it inaugurated an exclusive art exhibition on Friday, showcasing the impactful “Ongoing (Choloman)” by accomplished artist and climate activist Monica Jahan Bose.
Commencing at 4 pm, the exhibition promises a visual treat daily until March 9, welcoming art enthusiasts between 3 pm and 9 pm. Notably, this marks Monica Jahan Bose’s first-ever exhibition in Bangladesh, presenting her ongoing collaborative art project with saris. Curated by Ruxmini Choudhury, the exhibition features a three-channel video and vibrant cascading saris, delving into the realms of climate change and women’s profound influence on food, the environment, and pertinent women’s issues.
Adorned with intricate woodblocks and adorned with pledges from artists worldwide, the saris serve as a canvas for environmental awareness. Esteemed guests, including Sharlina Hussain Morgan, Director of Public Engagements at the US Embassy, and Asaduzzaman Noor, Member of Parliament, graced the occasion.
Monica Jahan Bose’s journey into feminist storytelling through saris commenced in her ancestral village, Katakhali, Patuakhali, in 2012-2013. Focused on empowering women through an eco-empowerment program, Bose aimed to spotlight the community’s achievements amidst challenges posed by rising sea levels.
Expressing concern over the impact of climate change on the livelihoods of local communities, heavily reliant on fishing and agriculture, Monica Jahan Bose emphasized the urgency of preserving this vital part of Bangladesh’s heritage. In the exhibition, she shared her creative process, stating, “I designed the blocks in the saris using pen and paper, and the block paint was locally made in Bangladesh. I also block painted the village women on Tangail saris.”
Highlighting global climate challenges, Bose stressed the difficulties faced by farmers abroad, citing instances from France. Sharlina Hussain Morgan underscored the power of art as a policy, emphasizing its potential to mobilize people, especially the youth, to address climate change in the present.
Asaduzzaman Noor acknowledged the severe consequences of climate change, praising Bose for addressing the issue through her art. The US Embassy’s commitment to supporting Bangladeshi heritage and indigenous communities was also emphasized during the event.
Monica Jahan Bose’s exhibition stands not only as a testament to artistic brilliance but also as a powerful medium to raise awareness about climate change, encouraging collective action and environmental stewardship.
