Kochi Biennale Foundation

Kochi-Muziris Biennale aims to awaken the cosmopolitan essence of Kochi and its historical counterpart, Muziris. It serves as a platform to introduce global contemporary art ideas to India, display and discuss fresh Indian and international artistic styles, and foster conversations among artists, curators, and the public.

The Kochi-Muziris Biennale aims to create a new sense of modernity and diversity based on the history of Kochi, an ancient trading port. For over 600 years, Kochi has been a place where different cultures come together. This tradition goes back even further to Muziris, an ancient city that was buried by a huge flood in the 14th century. It is now excavating Muziris. In today's world, it's important to explore and remember this past, connecting it to what's happening globally. This can offer a different way of thinking compared to the ideas that come from Europe and America. It's like a conversation about a new way of looking at art and politics, rooted in India but open to ideas from around the world.

The Kochi-Muziris Biennale aims to become a hub for artistic involvement in India, influenced by Kerala's strong tradition of public participation. Kerala's unique social and political development has been shaped by artistic efforts that challenge societal hierarchies, and these artistic interventions are deeply ingrained in our diverse art tradition. In a world marked by various power dynamics, it is crucial to maintain a balance between the interests and autonomy of artists, art institutions, and the general public.

The Kochi-Muziris Biennale wants to show how India is becoming more open, fair, and democratic. It's time to talk about the unique cultural practices of the Indian people and the traditions that are shaping India's identity. These are similar to the art coming from nearby countries. The Biennale also wants to spotlight the new and exciting art happening in this part of the world.

The Kochi-Muziris Biennale wants to find the hidden creativity in India's past and present art traditions. It's trying to create a new way for people with different identities to live together peacefully in a diverse society. This includes understanding and respecting differences in language, religion, and beliefs. The Biennale is against ideas of cosmopolitanism and modernity that try to force everyone to be the same. Instead, it wants to celebrate and learn from our differences.