Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy organised a three-day-long art camp where artists from 50 ethnic minority groups took part. The art camp was inaugurated on August 2 at the Academy's National Art Plaza in the city.

Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy organised the art camp to preserve and promote lifestyles, languages and culture of ethnic minority groups living across the country.

A total of 50 artists took part at the art camp. Liaquat Ali Lucky, director general of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy inaugurated the camp as chief guest.

The participating artists have been working on ethnic themes for a long time. Their works invariably feature indigenous people and their daily chores. Imposing texture and mellow surface with meticulous space provide imposing looks to their works. The painters are inspired by the vivid colours of indigenous attire, the hills, forests, 'jhum' cultivation, pristine blue waterfalls, dance and music in other words, anything that defines life in the hilly areas of the country. Their works also capture the serene moods associated with Buddhism and its various spiritual aspects. The figures in their paintings are lively and easily communicate with the viewers for their expressive traits.

Apart from their exotic and beautiful ethnic background which is reflected in the simple but beautiful lifestyle, the painters have always been especially influenced by impressionists and expressionists. Several of their works deal with indigenous women bathing in the dim light of sunset, indigenous girls gossiping, scenes of the waterfall on a moonlit night.

A total of 150 artworks, comprising paintings, drawings and sketches have been created at the art camp.