In Dhaka working on Show!
I am in Dhaka working furiously in preparation for the Bamgladesh exhibition and book launch of Her Words: Storytelling with Saris. The site specific installation at the Edward M. Kennedy Center is proving to be challenging because there are huge windows with light streaming into the multi-media 9th Floor space. We will probably cover them partially with red saris so that the projections are visible. I am working closely with the EMK Center’s Program Coordinator Zamina Ahmed on logistics, including invitations, banners, food, and press for the event. It is the month of Ramadan, so iftar (food and drink to end the fasting) will be provided precisely at sundown.
I am thrilled to announce a wonderful line-up of distinguished speakers for the inauguration on July 19th evening. The chief guest will be US Ambassador to Bangladesh His Excellency Dan Mozena. I spoke with him at length today and he said he is very excited to see Bangladeshi-Americans starting initiatives of this kind. One of Bangladesh’s top climate scientists, Dr. Saleemul Huq, will also be a speaker and special guest. Renowned art critic Professor Moinuddin Khaled has agreed to speak about the project in the context of contemporary art. Cosmos Gallery head Enayet Khan, a big supporter of this project, will also be an invited speaker. I too will be speaking to the purpose behind the project and next steps. The speakers will be guided by the superb moderator, Rafiqul Islam of the Liberation War Museum.
At least two of the Katakhali artists will be at the event along with filmmaker Nandita Ahmed, my mother Noorjahan Bose, and the coordinator of the Katakhali project, Mahmuda Lina. Much to do still but glad to have made so much progress in just five days. Thanks to all for your support!