ART ORGNIZATIONS
Since its independence in 1971, Bangladesh has cultivated a vibrant and diverse art scene, deeply rooted in its rich cultural heritage. Bangladesh boasts a rich tapestry of artistic heritage, reflected in its myriad institutions dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and evolution of fine arts. The evolution of this artistic landscape is marked by the establishment of numerous museums, galleries, and organizations dedicated to the promotion and preservation of fine arts. Below is an immersive exploration of these institutions, categorized for clarity and enriched with their missions, visions, notable endeavors, and references that have significantly contributed to the country's vibrant art scene.

Museums in Bangladesh
  • Bangladesh National Museum
    Location: Shahbagh, Dhaka
    Overview: Established in 1913, this premier institution houses extensive collections spanning archaeology, classical and contemporary art, history, and natural history, offering a holistic view of the nation's cultural evolution.
  • Zainul Abedin Museum
    Location: Mymensingh ArtMajeur Online Art Gallery+1OpenEdition Journals+1
    Overview: Dedicated to the works of the renowned artist Zainul Abedin, the museum showcases his sketches, paintings, and personal artifacts, celebrating his pivotal role in modern Bangladeshi art.
  • Varendra Research Museum
    Location: Rajshahi
    Overview: Founded in 1910, it stands as one of the oldest museums in Bangladesh, focusing on the history and heritage of the Bengal region with artifacts from ancient and medieval periods.
  • Shilpacharya Zainul Folk and Craft Museum
    Location: Sonargaon Wikipedia
    Overview: This museum emphasizes the rich folk art and crafts of Bangladesh, preserving traditional artifacts and promoting the country's indigenous artistic expressions.
  • Zia Memorial Museum
    Location: Chittagong Wikipedia+2Tripadvisor+2Tripadvisor+2
    Overview: Housed in the former residence of President Ziaur Rahman, the museum exhibits memorabilia related to his life and the history of Bangladesh's liberation. ArtMajeur Online Art Gallery
  • Liberation War Museum
    Location: Dhaka Culture Trip
    Overview: Dedicated to the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971, the museum preserves artifacts, documents, and personal histories, educating visitors about the nation's struggle for independence.
  • Bangladesh Folk Art and Craft Foundation Museum
    Location: Sonargaon Wikipedia
    Overview: Showcasing traditional folk art and crafts, this museum plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting Bangladesh's rich cultural heritage.
  • Bangladesh Military Museum
    Bangladesh Military Museum is a military museum in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Administered by the Bangladesh Army, the museum is located right beside the Novo Theatre at Bijoy Sarani of the capital Dhaka. Wikipedia
    Address: Bijoy Sarani, Dhaka 1215
  • Dhaka City Museum
    Dhaka City Museum is a local museum, situated in Nagar Bhaban, Dhaka. This museum was established in 1987 to present the history of Dhaka city to the public, which later became government ownership in 1996.
    Located in: Dhaka South City Corporation.
  • Museum of Rajas
    Museum of Rajas' is a folk museum in Sylhet, Bangladesh. The predecessor's home of Hason Raja has been transformed into today's famous Museum of Rajas', commonly known as Hason Raja Museum. It is situated at the heart of the Sylhet City Corporation area in Sylhet Division of Bangladesh. Wikipedia.
    Address: VVV8+VVP, Jallarpar Rd, Sylhet 3100
  • Ahsan Manzil
    Ahsan Manzil is a palace located in the Kumartoli area beside Buriganga River of Dhaka, Bangladesh. It was formerly the residence and seat of the Nawab of Dhaka and has been designated an Old Dhaka Heritage Site. It now serves as a museum. Wikipedia
    Address: Dhaka 1000
  • Bagerhat Museum
    Located right next to the Sixty Dome Mosque. The museum showcases terracotta plaques, coins, pottery, utensils and inscriptions from the era of Khan Jahan Ali. This museum is inside the Shat Gombuj Mosque Complex. The Mosque is the largest of the Sultanate mosques in Bangladesh and one of the most impressive Muslim monuments in the whole of the Indian subcontinent. It is ascribed to one Khan al-Azam Ulugh Khan Jahan, who conquered the greater part of southern Bengal and named the area khalifatabad in honour of the reigning Sultan nasiruddin mahmud shah (1435-59).
    Address: Old Rupsa Bagerhat Rd, Bagerhat
  • Ethnological Museum
    The Ethnological Museum in Chittagong offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich culture and history of Bangladesh's ethnic groups. With diverse galleries showcasing traditional art, customs, and artifacts, it provides an immersive learning experience. The Ethological museum is a central museum for all the ethological people of the country. The tribal people's history and culture is well depicted here. Ethnology Museum, it's all about ancient cultural of Bangladesh.
    Address : Chitagong
  • Father of The Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Memorial Museum
    Bangabandhu Memorial Museum,[a] also known as Bangabandhu Bhaban or Dhanmondi 32, was a museum located in Dhanmondi, Dhaka, Bangladesh,[1] which was once the personal residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding leader and first president of Bangladesh.[2] The flag of Bangladesh was officially hoisted for the first time here before Bangladesh Liberation War. In 1975, Mujib was assassinated with most members of his family in this residence. The museum was listed as a national heritage site in 2009 by RAJUK. It was partially damaged on 5 August 2024 after the fall of Sheikh Hasina[3][4] and was later fully demolished on 6 February 2025 in a series of events.
    Address House 677/10, Road 32/11, Dhanmondi, Dhaka
Art Galleries in Bangladesh

Some notable art galleries in Bangladesh

  • Dhaka Art Center
    Location: Dhanmondi, Dhaka
    Overview: A hub for contemporary art, offering exhibition spaces, artist residencies, and educational programs aimed at nurturing creativity and dialogue within the art community.
  • Bengal Gallery of Fine Arts
    Location: Dhanmondi, Dhaka
    Overview: Since 2000, Bengal Gallery has been a pivotal platform for contemporary Bangladeshi artists, hosting exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events to foster artistic growth.
  • Gallery Chitrak
    Location: Dhanmondi, Dhaka
    Overview: Established in 1990, Gallery Chitrak is committed to promoting modern and contemporary Bangladeshi art, featuring works from both established and emerging artists. Culture Trip
  • Shilpangan Art Gallery
    Location: Dhanmondi, Dhaka
    Overview: Founded in 1992, Shilpangan focuses on contemporary art, providing a platform for innovative and experimental works by Bangladeshi artists.
  • Alliance Française de Dhaka Gallery
    Location: Dhanmondi, Dhaka
    Overview: Part of the French cultural center, this gallery hosts diverse exhibitions, fostering cultural exchange between Bangladeshi and international artists.
  • Drik Gallery
    Location: Dhanmondi, Dhaka
    Overview: Established in 1989, Drik has been instrumental in promoting photography and visual arts in Bangladesh, hosting exhibitions and workshops to support visual storytelling.
  • Bistaar: Chittagong Arts Complex
    Location: Chittagong
    Overview: A multidisciplinary arts facility founded in 2014, Bistaar serves as a contemporary venue for performing arts and culture, supporting local artists and cultural activities. Tripadvisor
  • Art Bangla Gallery
    Location: Banani, Dhaka
    Overview: Dedicated to promoting Bangladeshi art, Art Bangla Gallery showcases a diverse range of artworks, fostering appreciation for the country's artistic talents.
  • Galleri Kaya
    Location: Uttara, Dhaka
    Overview: Established in 2004, Galleri Kaya exhibits contemporary art, representing both renowned and emerging Bangladeshi artists, and hosts regular art events and workshops.
  • National Art Gallery
    Location: Segunbagicha, Dhaka
    Overview: Operating under the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, the National Art Gallery hosts exhibitions showcasing both traditional and contemporary artworks, reflecting the nation's diverse artistic expressions.
  • Cosmos Gallery Bangladesh
    Established in 2011, Gallery Cosmos is an exclusive art space located in the heart of Dhaka. Dedicated to enriching the appreciation of contemporary and modern art, it serves as a creative hub and center for learning, providing artists with a platform to enhance and cultivate their artistry.
  • Dhaka Gallery
    Dhaka Gallery launched in 2018 in Banani by Delvistaa Foundation. It used to host art exhibitions, cultural programs and other events. Sitting on 2,000 square feet space, the gallery will be a unique place for organizing different kinds of performances. It was closed down in 2024.
Art Foundations and Trusts

Some notable Art Foundations and Trusts in Bangladesh

  • Samdani Art Foundation
    Founders: Nadia and Rajeeb Samdani
    Mission and Vision: Established in 2011, the foundation supports contemporary Bangladeshi and South Asian artists and architects, aiming to bridge the gap between South Asian artists and the global art community. Notable Endeavors: Organizes the Dhaka Art Summit, a significant non-commercial research and exhibition platform for art and architecture in South Asia.
  • Bengal Foundation
    Founder: Abul Khair
    Overview: A trust dedicated to the arts, Bengal Foundation supports the practice and understanding of visual arts in Bangladesh. Its comprehensive approach includes mounting quality projects both locally and internationally to maximize impact on the local arts scene. Website: Bengal Foundation
  • Chittagong Arts Trust (CAT)
    Overview: Founded in late 2014, CAT operates Bistaar: Chittagong Arts Complex, a multidisciplinary arts facility serving as a contemporary venue for performing arts and culture in Chittagong. Tripadvisor
    Website: Bistaar: Chittagong Arts Complex
  • Artivism for Peace
    Overview: Supported by UNDP's Partnerships for a More Tolerant, Inclusive Bangladesh (PTIB) project, this initiative brings together youth from diverse backgrounds to use art forms like graffiti, murals, memes, and music as tools for activism, promoting peace and unity. UNDP
    Website: Artivism for Peace UNDP
  • Durjoy Bangladesh Foundation
    Founded in 2018, the Durjoy Bangladesh Foundation (DBF) is a philanthropic entity dedicated to fostering and showcasing art from South Asia and beyond within a discerning global art narrative. DBF supports artists through various projects, residencies, and exhibitions, aiming to promote South Asian art on international platforms.
  • Art Bangla Foundation
    Art Bangla Foundation is a non-profit and apolitical organization with the goal of promoting art and humanism. They aim to create a platform for artists to explore their creative ideas and share them with society while uniting like-minded individuals. Their activities include regular workshops, exhibitions, and festivals, as well as providing financial support for research and artistic creation. They also strive to preserve and promote Bangladeshi folk art and handicrafts globally. Additionally, they participate in cultural exchanges and collaborate with other art initiatives worldwide to advance the contemporary art scene.7. Dhaka Gallery Specific details regarding Dhaka Gallery, including its founding date and contributions, are not available in the provided sources.
    Address: House# 44 Rd 12, Dhaka 1213
  • Kala Kendra
    Kala Kendra is an alternative art space in Dhaka that provides a platform for experimental and contemporary art practices. It hosts exhibitions, discussions, and residencies, fostering a critical dialogue among artists and audiences.
  • Britto Arts Trust
    Founded in 2002, Britto Arts Trust is an artist-run non-profit collective based in Dhaka. It works extensively across Bangladesh, exploring the country's socio-political landscape by engaging with diverse histories, cultures, and communities. Britto promotes interdisciplinary practices and has been instrumental in seeding various artist-led initiatives. documenta fifteen
  • Brihatta Art Foundation
    Brihatta, established in 2019, is an art foundation that initiated the Brihatta Home Art Project 2020, a three- month-long exhibition showcasing the art projects of 14 artists created during the quarantine period. The foundation aims to create connectivity between artists and audiences, highlighting the resilience and creativity of artists during challenging times. Dhaka Tribune
  • Cosmos Atelier 71
    Is an integral part of the artistic vision Cosmos seeks to serve, in the form of a printmaking studio housing state-of-the-art equipment. It aims to break new grounds by facilitating the emergence of the Arts in Bangladesh. We also offer a residency program for leading artists from around the world where they can experiment with alternative methods and materials. This combination of a residency program, gallery, and our printmaking facilities make Cosmos Atelier71 one of the most desirable destinations for contemporary arts in South Asia.
  • Delvistaa Foundation
    Delvistaa Foundation was registered as a philanthropic anon-government organization in the year 2009. Since its inception it bolsters the local culture through organizing different cultural events, publishing Audio CDs and rare books.
  • HerNet Fine Arts
    HerNet fine arts serves as a dynamic platform where creativity meets opportunity, ensuring that Bangladeshi artists receive the recognition they deserve. In alignment with our visionary goals, we have embarked with the Bangladesh's largest Art Data Centre. This pioneering initiative aims to serve as a central hub for the promotion and curation of Bangladeshi art, seamlessly integrating both traditional artistic practices and innovative virtual platforms. By fostering dynamic opportunities for artists, we seek to elevate their presence on the global stage while nurturing local artistic expression.
International organisations

Since Bangladesh's independence in 1971, several international organizations and foreign missions have actively promoted Bangladeshi arts and culture. Notable among these are: Embassies and High Commissions Promoting Art Diplomacy in Bangladesh

  • British Council Bangladesh
    Overview: The British Council has been instrumental in fostering cultural exchange between the UK and Bangladesh. It has supported Bangladeshi artists, facilitated art exhibitions, and organized workshops to promote cultural understanding.
  • Alliance Française de Dhaka
    Overview: Serving as the French cultural center in Dhaka, it regularly hosts art exhibitions, film screenings, and cultural events, providing a platform for local artists and facilitating cultural dialogue between Bangladesh and France.
  • Goethe-Institut Bangladesh
    Overview: The German cultural institute organizes art exhibitions, film screenings, and workshops, supporting Bangladeshi artists and fostering collaboration between Bangladeshi and German cultural practitioners.
  • Russian Centre of Science and Culture
    Overview: The Russian Centre contributes to the cultural landscape of Bangladesh by organizing events that promote Russian culture and facilitating cultural exchanges that allow Bangladeshi artists to engage with Russian art and traditions.
  • Embassy of the United States in Dhaka
    Overview: The U.S. Embassy has supported cultural programs and exchanges that highlight Bangladeshi art and culture, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration.
  • High Commission of India in Dhaka
    Overview: The Indian High Commission has organized events celebrating the shared cultural heritage between India and Bangladesh, including art exhibitions and cultural festivals.
  • Embassy of the Netherlands
    The Embassy of the Netherlands in Bangladesh has been involved in various cultural initiatives, fostering art and cultural exchanges between the two countries. While specific art-related activities are not detailed in the provided sources, the embassy's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties encompasses cultural collaborations.
  • Embassy of Japan
    The Embassy of Japan in Bangladesh actively promotes cultural exchange through various programs and events. While specific art-related activities are not detailed in the provided sources, the embassy's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties encompasses cultural collaborations. bd.emb-japan.go.jp
  • Embassy of Sweden
    The Embassy of Sweden in Dhaka, established in 1975, has been a significant promoter of cultural exchange. Alongside its diplomatic functions, the embassy represents Schengen visas for several countries and has been involved in various cultural initiatives to strengthen ties between Sweden and Bangladesh. Wikipedia These institutions and diplomatic missions have played significant roles in enriching Bangladesh's art scene, fostering cultural exchange, and promoting art diplomacy.