I had the honour of participating in the SPBA Bhutan Art Camp 2025 held from 7 to 12 July at the serene Bangladesh Chancery Complex in Thimphu, Bhutan. Organised by the Society for Promotion of Bangladesh Art (SPBA) in collaboration with the Bangladesh Embassy in Bhutan, the event brought together twelve Bangladeshi artists in a beautiful cross-cultural celebration of creativity and nature. The camp was graced by the presence of Rafi Haque, artist and General Secretary of SPBA, and was inaugurated in a warm ceremony attended by respected guests from Bhutan and Bangladesh, including the Honourable Ambassador of Bangladesh to Bhutan.

Each of us participating artists was deeply inspired by the majestic beauty of Bhutan. We stayed in beautiful hotels perched atop the hills, surrounded by lush nature that added a serene backdrop to our artistic journey. We visited the enchanting cities of Thimphu and Paro, where the breathtaking mountains, pristine air, and spiritual calmness of the land awakened something profound within us. One of the most memorable natural landmarks was the Wang Chhu (also known as the Raidak River), which flows through both Thimphu and Paro, and later meets the Brahmaputra River in Bangladesh. This geographical connection between our two countries was not only symbolic but deeply emotional-a flowing reminder of the unity that water, nature, and culture can create across borders.

The camp offered us the perfect environment to reflect, create, and connect. All twelve participating artists produced original artworks during the camp-using acrylics and watercolours-capturing their personal styles while also drawing inspiration from Bhutan's unique beauty. The tranquil setting, surrounded by green peaks and colourful prayer flags, seemed to infuse each canvas with life and spirit. Around 40 paintings were completed during the camp and will now remain in Bhutan for permanent display at the new Embassy complex, standing as visual ambassadors of our shared friendship.

A visit to the iconic Great Buddha Dordenma was another highlight of our trip. Towering at 177 feet, this monumental statue of Shakyamuni Buddha houses over one hundred thousand smaller Buddha statues-each crafted in bronze and gilded in gold. The site, which overlooks Thimphu, radiates a quiet majesty and speaks to Bhutan's deep-rooted spiritual heritage.

We also explored Bhutanese art and craft shops, admired the local architecture, and found endless inspiration in the country's commitment to natural harmony. One cannot mention Bhutan without acknowledging the stunning design of the new Bangladesh Embassy in Thimphu-masterfully designed by renowned Bangladeshi architect Rafiq Azam. With his signature philosophy of blending built form with nature, Rafiq Azam created a complex that respects Bhutanese aesthetics and sits harmoniously within the landscape. It felt more like an organic sanctuary than an official facility.

An unforgettable part of the experience was the formal invitation to the Bangladesh House, where the Honourable Ambassador hosted us for a gracious dinner. The evening was filled with heartfelt conversations, laughter, and a sense of shared accomplishment under the starlit Bhutanese sky.

Celebrated artist Kanak Chanpa Chakma also shared her inspiring presence with us, adding great energy and wisdom to the group through her art and encouragement.

As we return to Bangladesh, our hearts are full-knowing that our artworks will remain in Bhutan for permanent display at the Embassy. It is a joyous feeling to leave behind a part of ourselves, woven into each canvas, as lasting symbols of friendship, creativity, and cultural harmony born from the SPBA Bhutan Art Camp 2025.

Sourav Chowdhury, Visual Artist and Artistic Director, Gallery Cosmos and Cosmos Atelier71