At the heart of Dhaka’s bustling art scene, a remarkable celebration of creativity unfolded at the Aloki Convention Center this January. The third edition of Dhaka Makers 2025 was everything a creative soul could ask for—vibes, art, culture, and an explosion of handmade brilliance. It felt less like an event and more like stepping into a world where tradition and creativity had the ultimate crossover episode.
The Makers’ Marketplace was straight-up heaven for anyone who loves unique, locally made pieces. No mass-produced, soulless factory stuff here—just pure artistry in the form of hand-stitched fashion, eco-friendly accessories, and home décor that looked like it belonged in a Pinterest dream board. Meanwhile, the Art Market was on another level, featuring 79 artists who played around with both heritage and experimental styles, proving that creativity has no boundaries. Every corner was dripping with authenticity, reminding everyone that craftsmanship isn’t just about making things; it’s about telling stories.
However, two standout features of the event were the art gallery and the “Stop Motion Animation” workshop by Ogopogo Studios. The gallery showcased around 85 paintings alongside a few installations by a plethora of young local artists, capturing the essence of contemporary Bangladeshi artistry. Meanwhile, the workshop on the 12 fundamental principles of stop motion animation provided a rare opportunity for enthusiasts to explore the intricacies of the craft.
Workshops? Absolute gold. Picture learning Bangla calligraphy from an actual pro, getting your hands dirty with clay work, or figuring out how to craft a miniature terrarium that looks like it belongs in a fantasy novel. There was even a sustainable leather workshop that had everyone rethinking their fast fashion choices. Learning from the OG artisans themselves? Priceless.
As night fell, the festival grounds transformed into a pulsating musical sanctuary. The evening lineup featured an impressive array of talent – from the soulful rhythms of Muiz Mahfuz Band and Krishnokoli to the electric energy of Subconscious and Powersurge. Metrolife, Kafil Ahmed, Kanak Aditya, and Post Office Society each brought their unique sound to the stage, while the Rehman Duo delivered a memorable finale that perfectly captured the festival’s creative spirit.
Dhaka Makers 2025 did more than showcase artistic excellence – it demonstrated how Bangladesh’s creative community is reimagining traditional craftsmanship for contemporary audiences while preserving the soul of these ancient art forms. As the festival has grown, it has become an essential platform for celebrating the country’s artistic heritage and its bold creative future.
