Dhaka Storytellers paints a new chapter in community engagement

On a warm September afternoon, the elegant Crystal Palace at Gulshan Club transformed into a vibrant creative space as members gathered for Sip & Paint, an immersive art experience that blended painting, conversation, music, afternoon tea and community. Sponsored by Safius Sami Alamgir and Dhaka Storytellers, the event welcomed families, friends, young adults and art enthusiasts for an afternoon dedicated to creativity and connection.

The concept was simple yet inviting: paint a little, enjoy a cup of tea and stay awhile. Against a backdrop of soothing music, afternoon tea and light refreshments, participants picked up brushes and explored their artistic side, regardless of age or experience. The relaxed atmosphere encouraged conversation and self-expression, turning the event into more than just a painting session — it became a celebration of shared experiences.

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A highlight of the afternoon was the presence of several distinguished artists from Bangladesh’s contemporary art scene, including Monirul Islam, Mohammad Eunus, Ahmed Shamsuddoha, Sheikh Afzal Hossian, Kanak Chanpa Chakma and Azmeer Hossain. Their participation added a unique dimension to the gathering, allowing members to engage directly with artists whose work has helped shape the country’s visual culture.

The event also reflected the broader vision of Dhaka Storytellers, a cultural platform co-founded by Safius Sami Alamgir and Syeda Adiba Hussain. Established to celebrate Bangladeshi art, culture and storytelling, Dhaka Storytellers has steadily built a reputation for creating meaningful artistic experiences while supporting social causes. Through exhibitions, artist talks and community initiatives, the platform aims to foster a deeper appreciation of artistic expression and cultural heritage.

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Over the past two years, Dhaka Storytellers has organised notable initiatives such as Art for Charity, which brought together leading artists to raise funds for flood relief efforts, and The Story of Art, a landmark exhibition showcasing some of Bangladesh’s most celebrated artists while supporting educational initiatives in rural communities.

At Gulshan Club, that same philosophy was evident throughout the afternoon art gathering. Rather than positioning art as something to be admired from a distance, the event encouraged participants to become creators themselves. The result was an experience that blurred the lines between artist and audience, offering members an opportunity to unwind, learn and engage with the arts in an accessible and welcoming environment.

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As the final canvases dried and conversations lingered into the evening, the gathering demonstrated how art can bring people together — not only as spectators, but as storytellers in their own right. Through initiatives like these, Dhaka Storytellers continues to create spaces where creativity, culture and community meet, reinforcing the belief that art is most meaningful when it is shared.