Institute of Fine Arts (Charukola) - Image 1
1 / 10

Institute of Fine Arts Charukola

5
·4 reviews·Dhaka, Bangladesh

A historic institution shaping Bangladeshi art, vibrant during festivals and showcasing emerging talent.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Pahela Baishakh

Vibrant cultural celebrations

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Institute of Fine Arts (Charukola) - Image 1

Institute of Fine Arts Charukola

Best Time

Pahela Baishakh

Vibrant cultural celebrations

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic institution shaping Bangladeshi art, vibrant during festivals and showcasing emerging talent.

5
(4 reviews)

"Experience the colorful heart of Bangladeshi art and culture at this esteemed institute."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Exhibition Schedules

Plan your visit around student art exhibitions for a glimpse of emerging talent. :camerawithflash:

📅 Experience Pahela Baishakh

If visiting during Bengali New Year, expect lively crowds and colorful festivities. :tada:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pahela Baishakh Celebrations

Pahela Baishakh Celebrations

Witness a riot of colors and cultural festivities during the Bengali New Year. A truly immersive experience.

Zainul Abedin's Legacy

Zainul Abedin's Legacy

Explore the institute founded by the renowned artist Zainul Abedin, a cornerstone of Bangladeshi art.

Student Art Exhibitions

Student Art Exhibitions

Discover emerging talent and contemporary art at regular exhibitions showcasing student work.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

Experience the vibrant atmosphere during Pahela Baishakh for a colorful celebration. Avoid peak academic periods for a more relaxed visit.

Getting Around

The Institute is located in Shahbagh, Dhaka. Public transport is readily available, but traffic can be heavy. Consider ride-sharing apps for convenience.

Best Times

When
Pahela Baishakh
Why
Vibrant cultural celebrations
Crowd
High
When
During exhibitions
Why
See student talent
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎯 Check Exhibition Schedules

Plan your visit around student art exhibitions for a glimpse of emerging talent. :camerawithflash:

📅 Experience Pahela Baishakh

If visiting during Bengali New Year, expect lively crowds and colorful festivities. :tada:

🚗 Navigate Dhaka Traffic

Allow extra travel time due to potential traffic congestion in Dhaka. :car:

No content available

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Exhibition Schedules

Plan your visit around student art exhibitions for a glimpse of emerging talent. :camerawithflash:

📅 Experience Pahela Baishakh

If visiting during Bengali New Year, expect lively crowds and colorful festivities. :tada:

🚗 Navigate Dhaka Traffic

Allow extra travel time due to potential traffic congestion in Dhaka. :car:

What Travellers Say

5
(4 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Institute of Fine Arts Charukola is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, especially during Pahela Baishakh, and its significant role in nurturing Bangladeshi art. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to witness student talent and the historical legacy of its founding artists. However, some may find the campus facilities basic and the experience less structured than a traditional museum.

"Colorful fine Art's environment during pahela baishakh (First day of Bengali Month)"

Towhidur Rahman

"Under the leadership of Zainul Abedin, prominent artists Anwarul Haque, Kamrul Hasan, Khwaja Shafiq Ahmed, Safiuddin Ahmed and Habibur Rahman started the Government Arts and Crafts Institute at the DNMI Hospital building on Johnson Road in Dhaka.

At the beginning, there were six teachers including Zainul Abedin as the principal and eighteen students. The activities of this institute started with three departments: Fine Arts (now Drawing and Painting), Commercial Arts (now Graphic Design) and Graphic Arts (now Printmaking). In 1952, the institution was shifted to a building in Segun Bagicha and then in 1956, it was shifted to its own building in Shahbagh.

In 1963, the institute became a government degree college and was named East Pakistan College of Arts and Crafts. After the independence of Bangladesh, this college was named Bangladesh Arts and Crafts College. M.F.A. Courses have been introduced here since 1978. The Department of Art History started the MFA course in 1991 and the Honours course in 2001. In 1983, the college was merged into the University of Dhaka as an institute. The Honours course was introduced from the 1992-93 session. The institution was converted into the Faculty of Fine Arts of the University of Dhaka in 2008."

Chayan kumar das

""

md azad sb sound liet

What People Like

Vibrant Pahela Baishakh
Student art exhibitions
Artistic legacy

What People Dislike

Basic facilities
Less structured experience

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Institute of Fine Arts Charukola is located in Shahbagh, Dhaka. You can reach it via public bus, rickshaw, or ride-sharing services like Uber or Pathao. Be prepared for Dhaka's notorious traffic, especially during peak hours.

Parking can be challenging in the Shahbagh area. It's advisable to use ride-sharing services or public transport to avoid parking hassles.

Depending on your starting point, buses are a common option. For more direct travel, ride-sharing apps are highly recommended for their convenience and real-time tracking.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, entry to the campus and public areas is free. However, specific exhibitions or events might have separate admission fees. It's best to check their official announcements or inquire upon arrival.

The institute operates during standard academic hours, typically from morning to late afternoon on weekdays. However, specific departments or galleries might have different timings. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for precise hours.

Weekends might have limited access or be closed, especially during academic sessions. It's recommended to visit on a weekday to experience the campus's full activity.

The most significant event is Pahela Baishakh (Bengali New Year), which sees the campus come alive with vibrant celebrations. Keep an eye out for other student exhibitions and cultural programs throughout the year.

🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience

You can explore various art departments, admire student artwork, and potentially catch exhibitions. The campus itself is a hub of artistic energy, reflecting the rich history of Bangladeshi art.

Yes, the colorful environment, especially during events like Pahela Baishakh, offers great photographic opportunities. Be mindful of students and faculty when taking pictures.

While primarily an academic institution, the institute often hosts student exhibitions. There might be smaller display areas showcasing faculty or past student works, but it's not a traditional museum with extensive permanent collections.

Founded by Zainul Abedin, it's a pivotal institution in the development of modern Bangladeshi art. It has evolved from a small institute to the Faculty of Fine Arts at the University of Dhaka, nurturing generations of artists.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Shahbagh area has numerous eateries, from local street food stalls to cafes and restaurants, offering a variety of Bangladeshi cuisine. You'll find options catering to different budgets.

Yes, many local restaurants offer vegetable-based dishes. You can often find lentil curries, vegetable stir-fries, and rice dishes that are vegetarian. Vegan options might require specific requests.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Charukola is primarily an art institute, families can enjoy visiting during student exhibitions or the vibrant Pahela Baishakh celebrations. These events often have a lively atmosphere that can engage children. It's a good opportunity to introduce kids to different forms of art and culture in a dynamic setting. However, be mindful that it's an academic environment, so maintaining a respectful demeanor is important.

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Students

For art lovers and students, Charukola is a must-visit. You can explore the campus, observe the artistic environment, and attend student exhibitions to witness the latest in Bangladeshi art. It's a place to draw inspiration from the legacy of artists like Zainul Abedin and to see the future of art being shaped. Consider checking their academic calendar for any public lectures or workshops that might be open to visitors.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Legacy of Artistry: The Founding of Charukola

The Institute of Fine Arts Charukola has a rich history, tracing its roots back to the vision of Zainul Abedin, a pioneer of Bangladeshi art. Established in 1948, it began as the Government Arts and Crafts Institute with a modest faculty and student body. Its initial focus was on Fine Arts, Commercial Arts, and Graphic Arts, laying the foundation for diverse artistic disciplines. The institute's journey involved several relocations before settling in its permanent home in Shahbagh, Dhaka.

Over the years, Charukola evolved significantly. It gained college status in 1963, becoming the East Pakistan College of Arts and Crafts, and later the Bangladesh Arts and Crafts College post-independence. The introduction of M.F.A. (Master of Fine Arts) courses in 1978 marked a crucial step in its academic development. The establishment of the Department of Art History and the expansion of Honours and MFA programs further solidified its academic standing. In 2008, it was formally integrated into the University of Dhaka as the Faculty of Fine Arts, a testament to its enduring importance in the nation's art education landscape.

Experiencing Charukola: Beyond the Classroom

Visiting the Institute of Fine Arts Charukola offers a unique glimpse into Bangladesh's thriving art scene. While it's an active academic institution, the campus often buzzes with creative energy. Keep an eye out for student art exhibitions, which are frequent and provide an excellent opportunity to discover emerging talent and contemporary artistic trends. These exhibitions are a fantastic way to engage with the current pulse of the art world in Dhaka.

One of the most anticipated times to visit is during Pahela Baishakh, the Bengali New Year. The institute transforms into a hub of vibrant cultural celebrations, with students and faculty participating in colorful processions, musical performances, and artistic displays. This event offers a truly immersive experience into Bangladeshi traditions and the artistic spirit of the institution. Even outside of major events, the campus architecture and the general atmosphere can be inspiring for visitors interested in art and culture.

You may also like