written by: News Desk
A Unique Dialogue Between Architecture, Art and Moving Images at Kalakendra
Dhaka’s contemporary art scene is witnessing a growing interest in architecture-based exhibitions, where design, spatial concepts, architectural models, photography and visual narratives come together to create new forms of artistic expression. Moving beyond the traditional boundaries of architecture, these exhibitions are now engaging a wider audience by exploring the relationship between space, memory, culture and human experience.
Continuing this evolving dialogue, young architect Nuri Bhuiyan presents her exhibition “From Form to Concept: Architecture and Films Show” at Kalakendra, 9/3, Block-D, Lalmatia, Dhaka. The exhibition, which opened on 29 July 2026, will continue until 10 August 2026, offering visitors an opportunity to experience architecture through the combined languages of design, photography and film.
The exhibition explores architecture not simply as a method of constructing buildings, but as a creative discipline that reflects emotions, memories, social relationships and cultural identities. Through architectural projects, visual documentation and film-based works, Nuri Bhuiyan presents a multidimensional interpretation of how spaces are imagined, experienced and remembered.
At the opening ceremony, architect Salahuddin Ahmed and filmmaker Nuhash Humayun shared their perspectives on Nuri Bhuiyan’s works and creative approach. Artist and Director of Kalakendra Wakilur Rahman introduced the artist’s background and artistic journey in his welcome remarks. Later, Nuri Bhuiyan discussed the ideas, inspirations and design philosophy behind her presented works.
Born and raised in the United States as a second-generation Bengali, Nuri Bhuiyan completed her Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from Harvard University in 2022. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in architecture at the University of Pennsylvania, where she has also completed a minor in Art, Film and Visual Studies. Alongside her academic journey, she recently joined Marina Tabassum Architects (MTA) in Dhaka as an intern, gaining professional experience at the internationally recognized architectural practice.
A major attraction of the exhibition is the presentation of two architectural projects through detailed drawings and conceptual explorations. One of these projects is a proposed library design for a triangular urban site at the University of Pennsylvania. The project examines the connection between architecture and public space, focusing on light, movement, openness and social interaction. Through this approach, the design seeks to transform architecture into an active and inclusive civic experience.
The second project is an expansion proposal for the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA), Philadelphia. The design focuses on creating a vibrant cultural environment for contemporary art practices while strengthening connections between the University of Pennsylvania community and the residents of West Philadelphia. The project goes beyond the idea of an exhibition venue and explores how architecture can encourage meaningful social and cultural engagement.
A notable element of this project is Nuri Bhuiyan’s creative reinterpretation of architectural ideas inspired by Bait Ur Rouf Mosque, the Aga Khan Award-winning project designed by renowned architect Marina Tabassum in 2016. Through this exploration, she reflects on how architectural language can travel across contexts and generate new interpretations.
The exhibition also features two films that add a cinematic dimension to the architectural narrative. One film explores personal memories and family heritage through a visual story centered on the artist’s grandmother. The other focuses on Bait Ur Rouf Mosque, capturing the architectural experience of light, material, silence and spirituality through the language of film.
Alongside these works, a collection of architectural photographs presents Nuri Bhuiyan’s observations of spaces, structures and environments, revealing her sensitivity toward architectural details and human interactions with built surroundings.
By bringing together architecture, art and filmmaking, “From Form to Concept: Architecture and Films Show” creates a platform to rethink architecture beyond physical structures. The exhibition invites visitors to experience architecture as a form of storytelling—where spaces carry memories, emotions and cultural meanings.
Exhibition Details
Title: From Form to Concept: Architecture and Films Show
Artist: Nuri Bhuiyan
Date: 29 July – 10 August 2026
Venue: Kalakendra, 9/3, Block-D, Lalmatia, Dhaka
Visiting Hours: Every day from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
