It’s only March, but the temperature in Kochi is already soaring. In spite of the heat, the streets of Fort Kochi are filled with visitors cycling or riding (the brave hearts walk, but it’s a tough call) all over the heritage district. It is after all, the final days of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale 2016, one of India’s biggest contemporary art events, which brings together an array of artists from all over the world.
In its third edition, the Biennale has been curated by artist Sudarshan Shetty, featuring the works of over 100 artists pertaining to the theme ‘forming in the pupil of an eye’.
Founded by the Kochi-Biennale Foundation in collaboration with the Kerala Government, the four-month-long exhibition is spread across venues in Fort Kochi, Ernakulam and other parts of Muziris. The primary venues of the exhibition are Fort Kochi landmarks like Aspinwall House, Cabral Yard, Pepper House and Ernakulam’s Durbar Hall. But the exhibition extends beyond regular gallery spaces, with artworks showcased in old, abandoned warehouses, heritage buildings, cafes and public spaces.
In addition to the main venues, a number of collateral shows and events are organised in venues across Fort Kochi, turning the area into a massive one-of-its-kind exhibition space. The artworks on display encompass a variety of forms and genre, from paintings and sculptures to video installations and live performances.
You might also like: In Photos: Pune’s Old Wadas Stand Tall Amid High-Rises as Reminders of a Bygone Era
The first Kochi-Muziris Biennale was held in December 2012, and witnessed over 400,000 visitors in the course of four months. Since then, both the number of artists and visitors has only increased. The range of work on display is wide, and truly inspiring — not only does it provide a platform for some incredible showcase of art, it has also served to turn a sleepy port town into a vibrant space for travellers.
Images credit: Yudhajit Mitra
For more information on the Kochi-Muziris Biennale 2016, head to the official website.
Like this story? Or have something to share? Write to us: contact@thebetterindia.com, or connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.
NEW: Click here to get positive news on WhatsApp!
If you found our stories insightful, informative, or even just enjoyable, we invite you to consider making a voluntary payment to support the work we do at The Better India. Your contribution helps us continue producing quality content that educates, inspires, and drives positive change.
Choose one of the payment options below for your contribution-
By paying for the stories you value, you directly contribute to sustaining our efforts focused on making a difference in the world. Together, let's ensure that impactful stories continue to be told and shared, enriching lives and communities alike.
Thank you for your support. Here are some frequently asked questions you might find helpful to know why you are contributing?