Fortifying Japan-BD ties thru trans-cultural exchange

FUJIYOSHIDA: With a call to give a special spotlight on promoting bilateral relations between Japan and other Asian countries, especially Bangladesh, through cross-cultural exchange, the 1st Fujisan Artpia Exhibition at Fujiyoshida Civic Hall in Fujiyoshida city of Japan, witnessed a vivacious presence of artists, critics from the Asian region.

Thirty-two artworks, including some winning awards at the Asian Artpic Exhibition held in Japan in March this year, were put on display at the extravaganza of fine arts, organised by Shinkyoku Art Association, Japan recently.

Of the artworks, all depicting Japan's highest mountain Fujisan, which as the world's cultural heritage received UNESCO recognition in 2013, three received accolades at the programme.

Among the awardees, celebrated Bangladeshi artist Sharif Ahmed received 'Grand Award' while Khushida Eiichi and FR Bhutal got othertypes of awards.

The three award-winning artworks were created presenting three different perspectives- titled 'Fujibina' (meaning Japanese doll) by Khushida, 'Fujisan Tiger Family' (showing the tiger and Fujisan in a close proximity) by FR Bhutan and 'Fujisan Meisui' (meaning good stream water).

Addressing the inaugural function, Irikura Hirobumi, a Fujisan expert, said it is their sincere efforts that brought the top mountain in Japan the recognition of the globe's cultural heritage and now the modern artists' role will help it graduate into newer states of fame.

Sugimoto Theko, chief of the governing body of the educational institutions in Yamanashi Prefecture, said the displayed artworks impressed him very much and he hopes that such soulful performance of the creative artists will help further consolidate the existing diplomatic relations between the Asian countries.

He expected a common platform of the artists and art connoisseurs of the regional block to be established through effective role of the stakeholders paving the way for further propping up the existing close bond based on cultural exchange between Japan and other friendly Asian nations.