As the Dhaka International Film Festival (DIFF) prepares for its 2026 edition, the event is widening its cultural reach with an accompanying art exhibition titled ‘Shunyo Abhirup’ (When Emptiness Becomes Creation). The showcase will run from January 9 to 17 at the 3D Art Gallery.
Although the film festival, scheduled for January 10 to 18, is primarily known for its global cinematic programme, DIFF has increasingly evolved into a multidisciplinary platform that engages broader creative communities. This year’s exhibition marks a renewed partnership between the festival and one of Dhaka’s established art spaces.
In a statement, festival organisers expressed gratitude to 3D Art Gallery for its support, noting that such solidarity holds particular value for an independent initiative like DIFF. They described the collaboration as one that strengthens the festival’s aim of encouraging artistic exchange across different mediums.
The exhibition is curated by Bangladeshi artist Lutfa Mahmuda, whose involvement the festival credits as instrumental in shaping the project. DIFF praised her dedication, highlighting the effort and vision she has brought to the showcase.
A group of contemporary Bangladeshi artists will take part in Shunyo Abhirup: Anisuzzaman Anis, Juton Chandra Roy, Mohammad Eunus, Samsud Doha, Mohammad Iqbal, Sanad Biswas, Tajuddin Ahmed, Sanjid Mahmud, Ziaur Rahman and Mahmuda herself. Their works will explore the exhibition’s thematic premise, reflecting on how creativity can emerge from states of void, silence or absence.
DIFF extended its appreciation to all participating artists, noting that the exhibition’s realisation rests on their contributions. For festival audiences, the addition of this showcase offers a broader cultural experience in keeping with DIFF’s long-standing commitment to celebrating the arts in all their forms.
Shunyo Abhirup will be open from January 9 to 17 at the 3D Art Gallery, offering visitors a contemplative visual prelude to the full festival programme.
