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An interdisciplinary exhibition titled “Dialogues in Coexistence” is currently being held at Bengal Shilpalay in Dhaka that explores how architecture can foster more inclusive, climate-responsive and community-oriented public spaces. Organized by architects Saiqa Iqbal Meghna and Suvro Sovon Chowdhury, with curatorial direction by Luva Nahid Chowdhury and Wakilur Rahman, the exhibition presents architecture not merely as the act of constructing buildings but as a design practice responsive to people, nature, and society. It demonstrates how thoughtful design can adapt to climatic conditions, encourage public participation, and foster more vibrant civic life. Large-scale thematic photographs displayed throughout Bengal Shilpalay offer visitors an opportunity to engage with the architects’ work and design philosophy from a fresh perspective.
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The exhibition’s central premise is that the Bengal Delta should not just be the setting for architecture, but should play a role in shaping architectural concepts. In a region where rivers constantly alter their courses and seasonal flooding continually reshapes the land, architecture must learn to adapt to nature rather than resist it.
The first section of the exhibition, “The Bengal Delta as Condition,” explores the region's constantly evolving landscape alongside the cultural practice of “Ghor Bandha” (making a home amid uncertainty). Through a variety of media, it presents change not as a challenge to be overcome, but as a lived reality that calls for adaptation and coexistence.
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"Dialogues in Coexistence" Exhibition (Source: Social Media) |
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"Dialogues in Coexistence" Exhibition (Source: Social Media) |
The second section presents the architects' design philosophy, which has evolved in response to the realities of Dhaka, a city shaped by rapid urbanization and mounting environmental challenges. According to the architects, architecture extends beyond the construction of buildings; it is a creative practice deeply connected to people, society, and the environment.
These ideas are brought to life through a series of participatory installations, which form the exhibition's central experience. Constructed from handcrafted clay tiles, bamboo screens, and fabric canopies, the installations create an environment that responds naturally to the monsoon climate while allowing light, air, humidity, and movement to flow freely through the space.
The exhibition extends beyond the confines of the gallery, carrying its ideas into the public realm. In its final section, it proposes relocating several of the temporary installations to different parts of the city, where they will serve as care facilities, resting spaces, and community shelters.
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"Dialogues in Coexistence" Exhibition (Source: Social Media) |
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By introducing these installations into everyday urban environments, the project explores how climate-responsive design can help create public spaces that are more accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of diverse communities. The exhibition will run from 27 June to 25 July 2026. Curatorial Direction: Luva Nahid Chowdhury and Wakilur Rahman Supported by: British Council Photographs: Arafat Nawaz Aunkur |
| Contributor: Ar. Munia Ahmed Mim |
