With a call to give a special spotlight on promoting bilateral relations between Japan and other Asian countries, especially Bangladesh, through cross-cultural exchange, the 1st Fujisan Artpic Exhibition at Fujiyoshida Civic Hall in Fujiyoshida city of Japan recently (on Sunday) witnessed a vivacious presence of artists, critics and aficionados from the Asian region, reports UNB.

Made by painters and sculptors representing Asian countries, thirty-two artworks, including some winning awards at the Asian Artpic Exhibition held in Japan in March this year, were put on display at the extravaganza of fine arts, organised by Shinkyoku Art Association, Japan.

Of the artworks, all depicting Japan’s highest mountain Fujisan, which as the world’s cultural heritage received UNESCO recognition in 2013, three received accolades at the programme.

Among the awardees, ecvlebrated Bangladeshi artist Sharif Ahmed received ‘Grand Award’ while Khushida Eiichi and FR Bhutal got other types of awards.

The three award-winning artworks were created presenting three different perspectives- titled ‘Fujibina’ (Meaning Japanese doll) by Khushida, ‘Fujisan Tiger Family’ (Showing the tiger and Fujisan in a close proximity) by FR Bhutan and ‘Fujisan Meisui’ (Meaning good stream water). Sugimoto Theko, chief of the governing body of the educational institutions in Yamanashi Prefecture, said the displayed artworks impressed him very much and he hopes that such soulful performance of the creative artists will help further consolidate the existing diplomatic relations between the Asian countries.

Sharif Ahmed is a distinguished name in the arena of fine arts in Bangladesh whose every piece bears some hallmark of his distinct set of values.