The High Commission of the Republic of Singapore in Dhaka, in collaboration with Alliance Française de Dhaka, inaugurated Bridging Horizons: A Visual Dialogue of Nature, Heritage and Innovation on Friday, at La Galerie, Alliance Française de Dhaka.

Organised as part of the celebrations marking Singapore’s 61st National Day, the exhibition brings together artistic voices from Singapore and Bangladesh in a vibrant celebration of shared cultural values, heritage and contemporary creativity.

The opening ceremony was attended by Mr Mitchel Lee, Chargé d'Affaires of the Singapore High Commission, as the Chief Guest. The ceremony was graced by legendary Bangladeshi artist Professor Rafiqun Nabi, Professor Emeritus, University of Dhaka, as the Guest of Honour. M. François Chambraud, Director of Alliance Française de Dhaka, attended as the Special Guest.

The exhibition is curated by Harun ar Rashid Tutul, Associate Professor, Faculty of Fine Art, University of Dhaka, who has brought together a diverse selection of artworks reflecting the themes of nature, heritage, innovation and shared cultural identity.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr Mitchel Lee, Chargé d'Affaires of the Singapore High Commission, highlighted the important role of art in strengthening connections between people and nations. He said:

“Art complements diplomacy by building bridges between people and creating connections that endure long after official engagements conclude. As Singapore and Bangladesh prepare to commemorate 55 years of diplomatic relations in 2027, this exhibition reflects a partnership founded not only on strong economic and political cooperation, but also on vibrant people-to-people ties and a shared commitment to cultural exchange.”

Bridging Horizons features a premier collection of artworks from Singapore alongside works by 14 renowned Bangladeshi master artists. The exhibition also highlights the perspectives of six emerging Bangladeshi artists selected through a national open call, creating a dynamic dialogue between established artistic traditions and contemporary artistic practices.

Through this diverse presentation, the exhibition celebrates the longstanding friendship between Singapore and Bangladesh while providing a platform for artistic exchange and strengthening cultural connections between the two countries.

The exhibition further reflects the growing importance of cultural diplomacy in fostering mutual understanding and people-to-people connections. By bringing together established and emerging artists from both countries, Bridging Horizons offers visitors an opportunity to explore diverse artistic perspectives while discovering shared values and experiences across borders.