In a landmark event for both Ireland and Bangladesh, acclaimed Irish artist Oona Hyland has unveiled her first solo exhibition in Dhaka, marking a significant moment in the bilateral cultural relationship between the two nations. Titled An Duanaire: Visual Poems of the Dispossessed, the exhibition opened on Tuesday at the Garden Gallery in Baridhara, Dhaka. It is the first of its kind by an Irish artist in Bangladesh.
The exhibition is part of a three-week artistic residency, which Ms Hyland is spending in Dhaka, the first of its kind for an Irish artist in the country. The residency is a collaboration between the Embassy of Ireland and Gallery Cosmos, as part of the Ireland-Bangladesh Art Exchange Programme, aimed at strengthening cultural ties and facilitating artistic dialogue between the two nations.
Platform for artistic collaboration
At the inauguration, Ambassador of Ireland to Bangladesh Kevin Kelly, based in New Delhi, highlighted the significance of this artistic exchange. He expressed his hopes that the initiative would lay the groundwork for further collaborations between Ireland and Bangladesh.
“Though we have no embassy in Bangladesh, we have a long history of partnership with Bangladesh, especially in development co-operation and business. This residency exemplifies our commitment to strengthening that relationship,” said Mr Kelly.
Ms Hyland’s residency is also a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of art, memory, and healing. The artist, whose work draws on the vision of Rabindranath Tagore, uses printmaking to engage with the rich history and artistic resilience of Bangladesh. Her new work, inspired by her time in Dhaka, delves into themes of displacement and belonging and highlights the creative transformations that arise from cross-cultural experiences.
Dynamic exchange
Masud Khan, Honorary Consul of Ireland in Bangladesh, who hosted the event, reflected on the success of the residency. “I was a little worried at first—whether we’d have enough time, and how everything would turn out. But thanks to all our efforts, and especially to Ms Hyland, who worked tirelessly every single day, it all came together beautifully.”
Mr Khan also highlighted the importance of providing artists with the stability to innovate and grow. “I think Ireland is really leading the way in this regard. It’s inspiring, and it shows that we can learn so much from each other,” he said.
Ms Hyland, a graduate of IADT’s MMA in Art Research and Collaboration and an MPhil in Irish Art History from TCD, has had an illustrious career. With numerous international exhibitions, including the Venice Biennale in 2024, her work spans experimental printmaking, sculpture, and installation. As a distinguished member of the Royal Society of Painter Printmakers in London, Ms Hyland brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to the Bangladesh residency.
Vibrant art scene
During her time in Dhaka, Ms Hyland has been struck by the vibrancy of the local art scene. “It’s been such a pleasure to work here,” she said. “I didn’t expect the art scene to be so dynamic. I’ve met so many talented artists, and I’ve been absolutely blown away by their incredible skill and professionalism.”
She hopes that this residency will be just the beginning of a broader cultural exchange between the two nations. “I really hope that more Bangladeshi artists will come to Ireland. We need you,” Ms Hyland said, reflecting on the immense potential for collaboration. “I’ve seen the work here, and the talent is extraordinary.”
Invitation to explore
Ms Hyland’s exhibition, An Duanaire, continues at Gallery Cosmos, Cosmos Centre, 69/1, New Circular Road, Malibagh, from November 5 to 27, and is open daily from 10 am to 8 pm. Visitors to the gallery can experience the powerful dialogue between Ireland’s rugged landscapes and Bangladesh’s vibrant urban and cultural fabric, as explored through Ms Hyland’s powerful visual poetry.
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