PHOTO: JAWWAD SAMI NEOGI

JAWWAD SAMI NEOGI

On September 24, a youth art exhibition, titled “Transformation,” came to a successful close in Dhaka. The event, held at the Residence of the Kingdom of Netherlands, brought together young artists, cultural leaders, and art enthusiasts for an evening that celebrated creativity, wellness, and community.

The exhibition drew most of its participants from young artists at leading universities across Bangladesh, including some pursuing studies abroad, and it also welcomed talents beyond specific academic degrees.

“Transformation” showcased works in a wide variety of mediums, including woodcut, acrylic, digital art, etc. From surrealist paintings of hibiscus and water lilies to vibrant pieces inspired by everyday life, each creation carried a personal story.

Fareen Ahmed, a young artist from North South University, presented works inspired by Bangladeshi culture and the simple joys of life.

One of her pieces, “Tea in the Winter,” portrayed how something as small as a warm cup of tea, made with the warmth of ‘mamar haater jadu,’ can transform an ordinary moment into comfort and connection.

Rowshun Ara Polly, mother of Niharika Awhona Barsaat, an artist studying abroad, shared her pride: “I may not know the full meaning of her artwork, but I definitely know my daughter poured her heart into it. I am proud that her work is being praised by everyone.”

Anzareen Chaudhury, a graduate from SOAS University of London, explained her artworks “Twins of Sunlight -- Inara” and “Hibiscus When We Meet,” where she added textures and patterns to create surreal environments. Using waterlilies, hibiscus, ponds, and rivers as her subjects, she transformed the natural elements of Bangladesh into dreamlike scenes. Her works showed how everyday landscapes can be reimagined to reflect inner change and new perspectives.

Organised by The Flow Fest, in collaboration with the Embassy of the Kingdom of Netherlands and The Bangladesh Dialogue, the exhibition reflected a joint commitment to well-being, creativity, and youth empowerment. The Flow Fest, a wellness platform based in Dhaka, curates festivals, workshops, and cultural collaborations rooted in South Asian traditions while embracing global ideas. The vision is to help individuals find their “flow:” a state where purpose and peace align.

Distinguished guests attended the evening, including Joris van Bommel, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Netherlands. Speaking about the spirit of the young artists, he shared, “Art helps us make sense of the world, especially in times of uncertainty and change. This exhibition captures transformation: of identity, memory, culture, and place, through diverse yet interconnected visual languages.”

Shazia Omar, CEO and founder of The Flow Fest, highlighted the role of creative expression in well-being. “We create these spaces so young people can feel empowered. Picking up a brush or a camera is not just about art; it’s a way to process, to heal, and to grow. Through this, we hope to raise awareness, encourage young minds, and remind everyone that creative expression is essential for well-being.”

Meherba Sabrin, director of The Bangladesh Dialogue and a partner in the exhibition, said, “Art is not only a reflection of society, it is a language of transformation. This exhibition shows resilience, imagination, and the dreams of our young generation.”

The exhibition concluded with a message of hope: that art is not a luxury, but a shared journey, helping individuals and communities connect, reflect, and reimagine the future together. With this success, The Flow Fest and its partners promised future collaborations that would give youth a platform to share their visions and foster “transformation.”