The World Bank has launched an exhibition showcasing an inspiring collection of wall art created by students and youth from across the country, reflecting their hopes and aspirations for a prosperous and inclusive Bangladesh.
Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed inaugurated the exhibition, titled "Paint Your Sky, Make it Yours: Future Bangladesh in the Eyes of the Youth," on Saturday at DrikPath Bhaban, Panthapath in the city.
The exhibition features vibrant wall art painted by students and young people from 12 districts, including Dhaka, Rajshahi, Khulna, Sylhet, Chittagong, Barisal, Comilla, Rangpur, Rangamati, Khagrachari, and Bandarban.
These artworks vividly express their vision for the future and highlight the issues they deem important for Bangladesh's progress.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Salehuddin Ahmed described the event as a unique celebration of the power of art.
"Art is a powerful medium for expression," he said. Citing the works of Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin, particularly his depiction of the Bengal famine, he remarked, "Art captures emotions and stories that move people deeply. These artworks are similarly expressive."
Dr. Ahmed extended his gratitude to the World Bank for organizing the event, adding: "Paint the sky… to me, the sky represents hope and boundless expression. When we look at the sky, it reminds us of endless possibilities, and this message can resonate with everyone."
Commenting on the students' contributions, he said: "The youth have aptly expressed their thoughts through these artworks, raising awareness about responsibilities and duties. I encourage publishing a book featuring the selected paintings and presenting it to the chief adviser."
He also commended the young artists, saying their families must be immensely proud.
World Bank Country Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan Abdoulaye Seck highlighted the critical role of youth in shaping the nation’s future.
"The World Bank has always recognized the pivotal role youth play in shaping the present and the future. We are committed to empowering youth globally," he said.
He praised Bangladeshi students for channeling their creativity into art during challenging times, saying: "This exhibition showcases their concerns and priorities for the future, and it is vital that we listen to them. The title, 'Paint Your Sky, Make it Yours,' reflects the unlimited potential of young people to be change-makers."
Seck further noted that the wall art emerged during a period of social movements in Bangladesh. "In the turbulent months of July and August, the streets echoed with calls for justice and change. Out of this extraordinary movement, youth and students transformed their energy into vibrant artistic expressions," he added.
The exhibition, hosted at DrikPath Bhaban, Panthapath, Dhaka, will remain open to the public from November 23 to November 30, 2024, between 3pm and 8pm daily. At the opening ceremony, a publication and a video related to the event were also launched.
The World Bank, one of Bangladesh's earliest development partners, has committed over $44 billion in International Development Association (IDA) financing in the past 50 years, supporting the country's development priorities.
With nearly $16 billion in financing across 52 ongoing projects, Bangladesh currently holds the largest IDA program globally, reaffirming the World Bank’s role as its largest development partner.
