The exclusive printmaking workshop, "On the Trail of Planography," conducted by the celebrated artist Sheikh Mohammad Rokonuzzaman, concluded successfully on Monday night at Cosmos Atelier-71 in Malibagh, Dhaka. The event was marked by the participation of eleven artists from varied backgrounds and presided over by key figures in the Bangladeshi art scene.

The workshop, inaugurated on May 10 by renowned Bangladeshi entrepreneur, author, journalist and patron of the arts Enayetullah Khan, founder of Gallery Cosmos and Cosmos Atelier-71, with the presence of Tehmina Enayet, Director of Gallery Cosmos and Cosmos Atelier-71, and Nahar Khan, Executive Director of Gallery Cosmos and Cosmos Atelier-71, spotlighted the unique technique of lithography within planographic printmaking. Lithography, a pivotal technique, was explored in depth under the guidance of Rokonuzzaman, a former chair of the Department of Printmaking at Dhaka University.

Notable attendees included veteran artist and freedom fighter Biren Shome, eminent artist-educator Professor Syed Abul Barq Alvi, internationally recognized artist Professor Rokeya Sultana, and famed photojournalist Nasir Ali Mamun. Ashmita Alam, chair of the Department of Printmaking at Dhaka University, also joined as a guest artist.

Tehmina Enayet, Director of Cosmos Atelier-71, expressed her enthusiasm for the event. "Hosting this planography workshop was a tremendous experience. We're committed to nurturing the local art scene through workshops and exchange programs with renowned international artists," she remarked. "Each workshop concludes with an exhibition, promoting and celebrating the participating artists’ magnificent creations."

Rokonuzzaman shared his gratitude towards Gallery Cosmos for the initiative, noting that it served as an inspiring educational platform. "We delved into various lithography and planography techniques, aiming for a collaborative and experiential learning environment. I approached this workshop not just as a teacher but as a fellow learner, which enriched our collective experience," he explained.

Participants also reflected positively on their experiences. Palash Baran Biswas, an Associate Professor of Printmaking at Khulna University, highlighted the clarity Rokonuzzaman brought to the technically challenging medium of lithography. "The collaboration with artists from diverse fields further enriched our learning experience," he added.

Sourav Chowdhury, Artistic Director of Gallery Cosmos, emphasized the educational impact of the workshop. "The engagement and curiosity from all participants were high, and there's a strong demand for more such workshops in the future. This is just the beginning," Chowdhury stated.