BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology (BUFT) organized the exhibition “Soil, Skin and Memory” on Sunday, at its Multipurpose Hall in collaboration with the BUFT Heritage Club. The concept was proposed by Canadian-Bangladeshi artist Refaya Turshin, founder and creative designer of RT Atelier, and curated by Afsana Sharmin, assistant professor of Fashion Studies at BUFT. The exhibition showcased a range of innovative works reflecting on themes such as morality, identity, heritage, and sustainability. The event was inaugurated by Mr Muzaffar U Siddique, founder chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of BUFT, who attended as the chief guest, in the presence of Vice Chancellor (Designate) Prof Dr Eng Ayub Nabi Khan. Marking the occasion, a seminar was also held featuring keynote addresses by Prof Dr Masud Rashid of Southeast University and Prof AKM Golam Rabbani of the University of Dhaka.
The program included a presentation by Refaya Turshin and associated researchers, followed by a panel discussion moderated by architect M Wahid Asif. The panel featured discussants including fashion designer Maheen Khan, artist and designer Kuhu Plamondon, Sadia Akter Mumu of the Institute of Architects Bangladesh, and a professor of history. The session concluded with an interactive question-and-answer segment. A fashion showcase by RT Atelier was also held, accompanied by critique sessions led by Maheen Khan and Kuhu Plamondon. Additional contributions were made by Biswajit Goswami (University of Dhaka), Dr Shamim Reza (Jahangirnagar University), Rokaiya Ahmed Purna (Design in Bangladesh), and Afsana Ferdousi, CEO and Creative Designer of AFSANA FERDOUSI.
The exhibition brought together students, faculty members, industry professionals, and invited guests, fostering meaningful dialogue on ethical fashion, cultural memory, and responsible design, and reflecting BUFT’s commitment to advancing socially responsible and globally relevant creative education.
