Senior Artists Rediscover Creativity at Dhaka's Artful Aging Workshop

An art camp titled Artful Aging took place in Abasar village, Dhamrai, Dhaka, on Friday. The event brought together 30 senior artists for a creative wellness workshop aimed at promoting mental and emotional well-being through art. Renowned local sculptor Shankar Dhar attended as the guest of honour, highlighting the importance of cultural engagement for older generations.

The workshop was organised by artist and curator Manashi Banik, who sought to encourage elderly participants to explore their creativity. Among the attendees were well-known artists such as Mohammad Eunus, Naima Haque, Abdul Mannan, Ranjit Das, and Tarun Ghosh. Each contributed their expertise to the sessions, guiding participants through various artistic techniques.

Retired Major General Jiban Kanal Das, country director of the Sir William Beveridge Foundation, also joined the event. He stressed the benefits of creative activities in improving brain function and memory, particularly for those past middle age. Meanwhile, Naima Haque expressed hope that younger generations would support elderly individuals in pursuing artistic work. During the camp, Shankar Dhar raised concerns about the declining practice of sculpture and traditional cultural activities in Bangladesh. He urged greater efforts to preserve these art forms. The artworks produced at the workshop will soon be displayed in an upcoming exhibition, with plans to continue similar initiatives for senior citizens in the future.

The Artful Aging camp provided a platform for elderly artists to reconnect with their creativity. The event not only showcased their talents but also reinforced the role of art in enhancing mental well-being. Organisers have confirmed that the initiative will expand, offering more opportunities for senior citizens to engage in creative pursuits.