On the eve of his 2001 walima, the author rushed to Drik Gallery for the sudden relocation of the “1971 The War We Forgot” exhibition from the National Museum. Curated by Shahidul Alam and Robert Pledge, this highlight of Chobi Mela I featured rare Liberation War photos by world-renowned photojournalists. Government censorship attempts forced an overnight shift, executed by dedicated volunteers fueled by their passion for photography and history.
Renowned Spanish artist Cristina Nuñez brings her transformative “The Self-Portrait Experience®” to Chobi Mela VIII. Through her exhibition “But Beautiful” and a three-day workshop, Nuñez introduces her self-therapeutic method, empowering individuals to explore vulnerability, identity, and inner conflict, turning personal pain into powerful art.
Swapan Parekh, a pioneering Indian photographer, bridges documentary aesthetics with advertising. A World Press Photo winner, his “celebration of the ordinary” has graced major museums like Tate Modern. At Chobi Mela, he’ll lead a three-day workshop on “Shaping A Vision,” focusing on intimate observation, breaking predetermined project molds, and mastering print quality.
Graciela Iturbide, a celebrated Mexican photographer, found her calling after tragedy. Interviewed by Munem Wasif for Chobi Mela VII, she discusses her intuitive, poetic style, influenced by her mentor Manuel Álvarez Bravo and travels. From intimate portraits to landscapes, her work explores life, death, and connection, revealing a deeply personal artistic journey.
Chobi Mela VIII, starting January 23, 2015, promises its finest edition yet. Featuring 33 diverse exhibits across Dhaka, from established galleries to historic Old Dhaka locations, the festival explores “Intimacy” through global artists like Shirin Neshat and emerging talents. Expect a kaleidoscope of events, many live-streamed, including mobile rickshaw galleries reaching the public.
Chobi Mela, the first festival of photography in Asia, is one of the most exciting ventures that Drik and Pathshala has initiated. The first Chobi Mela – International Festival of Photography was held in December 2000 – January 2001. It is the most demographically inclusive photo festival in the world and is held every two years in Dhaka.