Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim

Mr. Kibria,

Eminent Artists,

Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Assalamu Alaikum.

I am delighted to be present here this afternoon at the launching ceremony of the book titled ‘Kibria’. The book presents the life and works of our internationally acclaimed artist Mohammad Kibria. I would like to extend my warm greetings and felicitations to Mr. Kibria on such a memorable occasion.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

As you know, Kibria’s world of art is fabulously diverse. I have always been fascinated by his subtle paintings on canvas, his intricate collages, etchings, mixed media and his simple yet refined drawings. Very rarely does an artist demonstrate such mastery and skill in all these mediums. Despite the broadness of his interest, the core of his efforts has remained focused on abstract expressionism.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am pleased to know that the Society for Promotion of Bangladesh Art has taken up the praiseworthy task of promoting Bangladeshi art to the outside world. I have seen their first book titled “Bangladesh Art”, which is one of the most comprehensive books ever published on the subject. Such books certainly promote a very positive aspect of our country abroad.

We know that art historians, journals and critics rely heavily on books and illustrations of paintings to evaluate and comment on art trends of a particular time. Although it is the age of electronic media, printed books are still invaluable and will remain so in the foreseeable future. The book titled ‘Kibria’ will provide a wonderful introduction to Mr. Kibria’s works for art connoisseurs all over the world. I am delighted to know that the Society for Promotion of Bangladesh Art is planning to bring out more such books on other Master Painters of Bangladesh.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The culture of a nation may be considered as the soul of its social fabric. Bangladesh is proud of her thousand-year-old rich and vibrant culture. The present government of Bangladesh is, therefore, genuinely interested to promote Bangladeshi art and culture throughout the world.

Mr. Quayum Chowdhury and several other artists brought to my attention, I think about a week ago, about the current status of the National Art Gallery. I already asked the ministry concerned to revive the project, so that we can complete the project within shortest period of time.

I agree with the suggestion of SPBA Chairman that all Bangladesh Missions abroad should have books on Bangladeshi art for the purpose of storage and distribution. Furthermore, artworks and books on Bangladesh art should be given as gifts when government officials undertake overseas trips or when foreign dignitaries visit Bangladesh. This is one simple way of promoting Bangladeshi art abroad.

The Khairul Kabir Foundation and Grameen Phone deserve our appreciation for coming forward in aid of activities related to the development of art and culture in Bangladesh.

Finally, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Society for Promotion of Bangladesh Art for undertaking the publication of this outstanding work on our illustrious artist Mr. Kibria.

It is my great pleasure now to formally launch the book titled ‘Kibria’.

Thank you all, Ladies and Gentlemen.

Allah Hafez.