Introduction
Convening a critical mass of artists, thinkers and participants, ‘Dhaka Art Summit 2020: Seismic Movements’ (DAS 2020) will provoke us to reconsider (art) histories, movement, borders and fault lines. From 7–15 February 2020, Dhaka, Bangladesh will be the epicentre of a radical upheaval of how we think about art, activated by intellectual and curatorial contributions, spanning four floors of the Shilpakala Academy in the city’s vibrant University belt. Built through alliances across Africa, Australia, South and Southeast Asia (and also extending into Europe and the US) this platform will be free to the public and include contributions by 500 artists, scholars, curators and thinkers, in the form of panel discussions, performances and symposia as well as opportunities for participation from the 300,000+ visitors focused on one broad theme: what is a movement and how do we ignite one beyond the confines of an art exhibition?
“Stimulating, inspiring, politically engaged, art historically fascinating, sensual, joyful and last but not least simply beautiful. A tour de force for its curatorial, intellectual, historical and contemporary scope, depth of research and unlimited sense of hospitality.”
Koyo Kouoh, Founding Artistic Director, Raw Material Company, Dakar and Executive Director and Chief Curator, Zeitz MOCAA, Capetown
“The Dhaka Art Summit was a revelation. Sharply insightful exhibitions, expansive and generous conversations and panel discussions, and a deeply satisfying experience. I learned a great deal, made unexpected connections, and enjoyed being with so many artists, curators, and scholars whose collective energy animated the Summit.”
Glenn Lowry, Director, Museum of Modern Art, New York
Curatorial Statement
Geological Movements
Collective Movements
Colonial Movements
Independence Movements
Spatial Movements
Moving Image
Modern Movements
Research
Samdani Art Award
Roots
Exhibition Design Programme: Sristi Binash