Responding to the demand of avid art lovers, the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) has extended the 19th Asian Art Biennale Bangladesh 2022 for one week. The biennale will now welcome its visitors till January 13. The closing ceremony of the exhibition was held at BSA's National Theatre Hall Saturday. Presided over by BSA Director General Liaquat Ali Lucky, the event was joined by Speaker of the Parliament Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury as chief guest. State Minister for Cultural Affairs KM Khalid, Cultural Affairs Secretary Md Abul Monsur, and eminent artists Shahabuddin Ahmed and Monirul Islam were also present. Many enthusiastic art admirers and visitors were seen on the BSA premises yesterday on the Asian Art Biennale's last day. Both Khalid and Liaquat said they received multiple requests for an extension of the exhibition, but had to announce its conclusion. However, the next editions of this flagship event of the BSA will be held for two months, they added. "Despite the fact that the 19th Asian Art Biennale officially drew to a close, we decided to extend it for another week due to the demand of our art enthusiasts. The galleries will be accessible to the public until January 13. However, it will not be extended further, as we have other exciting projects in our schedule," BSA Public Relations Officer Hasan Mahmud told UNB Sunday. On December 8, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the month-long art extravaganza online. The exhibition is showcasing 649 pieces of art created by 493 artists from 114 nations, including 149 Bangladeshi artists.

The 19th edition of the month-long Asian Art Biennale dedicated to the birth centenary of the Father of the Nation and the Golden Jubilee of Independence will commence March 1 next year at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA).