Cartoon e Bidroho’- A bloodshot rebellion portrayed in art!!

Through the eyes of artist Wakilur Rahman

A video shows Mr. Rahman in the hall with his exhibits, elaborating on his interpretations as remnants of his journey. “The exhibits are a reflection of my journey with art at different times,” he said, as the camera moved to show the hanging base of a traditional riverine boat. Wakilur Rahman has been working with social issues through his artwork since the 80s. He has recently hosted an exhibition by the name “Monon Khonon” at Bengal Shilpalay. It visualized through installments, the cultural aspects that portray the life in the delta regions. The acclaimed artist often ponders over the contour of our thoughts, imaginations, and emotions, and digs into this diversity in people from different regions. Going through the artwork in the exhibition one noticed a dark theme over three earthly elements: A fragment of the exhibition focused on wet mud and imprints on wet mud. The artist believes that mud is instilled in our physical molding and is a crucial part of life. Upon entrance one is greeted by the bottom half of a boat which depicts the enthusiasm of the artist as “Tori” is widely used in Bengali culture and its music. The final material in use is language which is represented by 3 dimensional prints and represents communication.

A Brilliant Conclusion with Countless Accolades Ceramic China 2024 Unfolds a New Chapter of Cooperation

On June 18–21, 2024, CERAMICS CHINA 2024, with “Great Minds to Lead, Digital Intelligence for Brilliancy” as the theme, concluded successfully in extensive praise. This edition is jointly organized by seven entities, including China National Light Industry Council (CNLIC), China Building Materials Federation (CBMF), China Building Ceramic and Sanitaryware Association (CBCSA), China Ceramic Industry Association (CCIA), CCPIT Building Materials Sub-Council (CCPITBM), Unifair Exhibition Service Co., Ltd. and Beijing Jianzhan Technology Development Co., Ltd., thereby, the long-standing “Organizing Ceramics China by turns” has concluded, showcasing the strong influence and multifaceted benefits of the partnership between five national associations and two exhibition companies through united cooperation and resource integration. This act of union has drawn widespread industry attention and positive responses. Mr. Chen Guoqing, Executive Vice President of CBMF and President of CCPITBM, highly praised the collaborative efforts of the seven organizers in presenting this unprecedented exhibition and expressed sincere gratitude to all the exhibitors, visitors, buyers, and the media partners for their continued support for CERAMICS CHINA over the years. Mr. Du Tonghe, Vice President of CNLIC and President of CCIA, expressed full affirmation of the seven organizers for jointly holding the exhibition: “This is a powerful measure in line with the forward trend of the new era, promoting high-quality development in the ceramic industry, and giving full play to the role of the ‘national team’ of the ceramic industry. It has gained extensive industry support.” Ms. Han Xiuping, Managing Director of Unifair Exhibition Company urged industry peers to strengthen cooperation, unite efforts, and jointly propel the industry towards premium, smart, green, and integrated transformation for high-quality development.

The Book Launch of ‘Next50: Collective Futures

A significant milestone in shaping Bangladesh’s future was marked today with the official launch of Next50: Collective Futures at BRAC University’s Multipurpose Hall. This landmark publication—the largest edited volume on Bangladesh’s built environment—brings together 81 authors, including many from the Bangladeshi diaspora, to explore the nation’s next five decades of progress, innovation, and connectivity. Spanning 49 chapters across nine major themes, the book examines urban and rural transformation, infrastructure, climate resilience, housing, governance, and technological innovation. Written in accessible language for policymakers, practitioners, and the general public, it bridges cutting-edge research with real-world impact, making complex ideas actionable for those shaping the nation’s future. The event was attended by some of Bangladesh’s most prominent architects, planners, and urbanists from both academia and professional practice. Distinguished guests included Dr. Syed Ferhat Anwar, Vice-Chancellor of BRAC University, and Mohammad Azaz, Administrator of Dhaka North City Corporation, who underscored the urgency of visionary thinking in driving sustainable and inclusive development. The program featured a compelling book introduction by Professor Fuad H. Mallick, Editor-in-Chief of Next50 and Dean of the School of Architecture and Design at BRAC University, followed by an insightful review from Dr. Mohammed Zakiul Islam, Professor at BUET, who highlighted the book’s interdisciplinary approach and its relevance to Bangladesh’s rapidly evolving urban landscape. Adding to the discussions, key stakeholders, including representatives from Shah Cement, reflected on the private sector’s role in shaping the built environment. The event concluded with remarks from the book’s executive editors, Dr. Tanzil Shafique and Dr. Saimum Kabir, who emphasized the collaborative effort behind the publication and its potential to influence future policies and practices.  Shah Cement also expressed interest in future collaborations. Beyond the discussions, the launch served as a key networking platform for scholars, policymakers, and industry leaders, fostering dialogue and collaboration on the country’s long-term development. Attendees engaged in meaningful conversations over Iftar and dinner, reinforcing the event’s role in strengthening professional and intellectual ties. Organized by Open Studio and Context BD, with support from Shah Cement, the event also reached a wider audience through a live stream, ensuring broader engagement with the book’s mission.