An extraordinary exhibition titled "Primer to Press," curated by artist Sabyasachi Hazra, has commenced at La Galerie, Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD) on Friday. The exhibition not only showcases original primers but also presents captivating artifacts and displays that shed light on the rich history of Bangla primers.

The opening ceremony of the exhibition also marked the debut of the book 'Bornomala: Bangla Alphabet Book Collection,' edited by Sabyasachi Hazra. Esteemed guests including former chairman of the Dhaka University Department of Bangla Prof Dr Syed Azizul Huq, artist and designer Chandra Shekhar Shaha, Dhaka University Faculty of Fine Art Dean Prof Nisar Hossain, renowned cartoonist and Dhaka University Faculty of Fine Art Professor Shishir Bhattacharjee, and musician, lyricist, and instrumentalist Rahul Ananda graced the occasion as special guests.

The ceremony was followed by a live demonstration of letterpress printing, showcasing the traditional methods employed for printing Bangla primers. The book 'Bornomala: Bangla Alphabet Book Collection,' published by Kobi Prokashani, offers a comprehensive exploration of Bangla primers, featuring eight selected specimens dating from 1849 to 1948. Hazra's meticulous research and analysis unveil the intriguing evolution of lettering, editing, and printing techniques used in Bangla primers.

During the exhibition, the book is available for purchase with a complimentary poster, and a special package including limited edition posters and prints is also offered. The exhibition aims to provide visitors with insight into the evolution of printing techniques, featuring vintage equipment such as woodblock printing presses and movable type sets. Additionally, it presents the artistic journey of Bangla primers through visuals and illustrations showcasing various artistic styles employed by different primers.

Sabyasachi Hazra, born in 1978, is an artist and author based in Bangladesh. He received his academic training in drawing and painting from Dhaka University and has contributed to various communication campaigns, brand identity designs, and illustrations for books and periodicals. Hazra's exploration of print and publication culture, theory, and practices is evident in his previous works and publications.

Apart from 'Bornomala: Bangla Alphabet Book Collection,' Hazra has authored three other books - 'In the Quest of Bangla Typography' (2021), 'Rong Tulite Chopchap' (2018), and 'Chitralipi' (2015). He has also co-authored the book 'Bangla Namer Desher Galpo' (2023).

The exhibition will remain open to the public until Saturday, May 18, operating from 3 pm to 9 pm, Monday to Saturday, and closed on Sundays.