A month-long group art exhibition of 33 women artists titled ‘Life 2018’ began at Gallery Cosmos in the capital’s Mohakhali area on Friday, marking the International Women’s Day that was observed on March 8, reports UNB.

Norwegian Ambassador in Dhaka Sidsel Bleken inaugurated the exhibition which was dedicated to freedom fighter and noted sculptor Ferdousi Priyabhashini who has passed away recently.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Gallery Cosmos Director Tehmina Enayet said the life of Ferdousi Priyabhashini exemplified sufferings, struggle and triumph.

Describing her as a champion and true icon, Tehmina said, “Late Ferdousi Priyabhashini is an example not only for women, but also for any man as well for the sheer strength of character and will to live that she displayed throughout her life.”

Sidsel Bleken said the exhibition reflects the importance of Priyabhashini, who encouraged other women through her bravery in spite of all the tremendous sufferings she faced during the Liberation War.

Thai Ambassador to Bangladesh Panpimon Suwannapongse and Deputy Chief of Mission, US Embassy, Joel Reifman also spoke on the occasion.

The participating artists are Afrozaa Jamil Konka, Akhtarun Nahar Ivy, Atia Islam Any, Bipasha Hayat, Dilruba Latif, Elham Hauque Khuku, Fahmida Enam Kakoli, Fahmida Khatun, Fareha Zeba, Farida Zaman, Farzana Ahmed Urmi, Farzana Rahman Bobby, Ferdousi Priyabhashini, Gulshan Hossain, Ivy Zaman, Kanak Chanpa Chakma, Lutfun Nahar Liza, Maksuda Iqbal Nipa, Mini Karim, Nargis Poly, Nasreen Begum, Nazia Andalib Preema, Rahima Afroz, Rebeka Sultana Moly, Rokeya Sultana, Samina Nafies, Santana Shahrin Nini, Shameem Subrana, Shulekha Chaudhury, Sohana Shahreen, Sruti Kushana, Taiyaba Begum Lipi and Veenita Karim.

Speaking on the occasion, Shulekha Chaudhury said, “Women in our society are still struggling and such exhibition provides inspiration for others.”

Dr Farida Zaman, who is also a professor at the Institute of Fine Art of Dhaka University, said “women face challenges at every stage of their life and tackle them bravely and tactfully.”

Thirty-three artworks of the female artists have been put on display at the exhibition which will remain open from 12 noon to 8 pm every day till April 16.

Gallery Cosmos: Villa de Anjuman, House-115, Lane-6 of New DOHS, Mohakhali.