Bangladesh has made its first official appearance at the prestigious Révélations International Fine Craft & Creation Biennial in Paris, with artist Suborna Morsheada showcasing a unique installation supported by the Durjoy Bangladesh Foundation.
The biennial, taking place at the Grand Palais from May 21 to 25, was inaugurated by French President Emmanuel Macron. The event is known as a celebration of global art and craft, where over 400 artists from around the world usually present their creations.
Suborna Morsheada’s installation, titled Against All Odds – The Korail Chronicles, drew special attention as it marked Bangladesh’s debut at this important global art platform. The work offers a new perspective on Dhaka’s Korail settlement, presenting it not as a place of poverty but as a community of resilience and hope.
Using recycled materials, Morsheada built a three-part installation. The first piece, The Phoenix of Renewal, is a sculpture symbolising transformation. The second part, Quilts of Resilience, features traditional kantha-stitched quilts narrating the everyday strength of Korail’s people. The final piece, Threads of Hope, includes dream catchers reflecting the hopes and aspirations of the settlement’s residents.
Later, artist Sajidul Haque joined the project, adding new dimensions to the narrative and deepening its emotional impact. Together, the artists created a moving display of endurance, ingenuity, and creativity.
Visitors from different countries appreciated the project for its meaningful storytelling and powerful use of craft. Art critics praised how the installation transformed ordinary materials into symbols of hope and resistance. This achievement has opened a new door for Bangladeshi artists to showcase their talent at international events and promote stories from their homeland on global stages.
