BIENNALE

1. Context

The fifth edition of the Kochi Muziris Biennale opens, displaying works of artists from across the globe in varied media.

Curated by Singapore-based Indian-origin artist Shubigi Rao, the central exhibition of the showcase will be around the theme "In Our Views Flow Ink and Fire."

2. About Biennales

3. History of Biennales

• One of the most prestigious and oldest biennales in the world is the Venice Biennale, which was established through a resolution by the city council in 1893 to celebrate national artistic talent.
• 1900 saw the emergence of Biennales across the world, with Bienal de Sao Paulo being instituted as the first non –European biennial in 1951.

4. Significance of Art Biennales

• Though most biennales do not allow for direct purchase of art, invitation, and participation in the showcase is often viewed as recognition of an artist's work.
• Biennale participation opens opportunities for future museum exhibitions, gallery representation, and acquisitions
• Additionally, biennales, often named after the host city, become a reason for local pride, promoting cultural tourism and generating revenue through visitors.

5. Kochi –Muziris Biennale

Kochi Muziris Biennale was founded in 2011 by Kerala born; Mumbai-based artists Bose Krishnamachari and Riyas Komu, to “create a platform that will introduce contemporary global visual art theory and practice to India".

6. Purpose of Kochi –Muziris Biennale

It sought to create a new language of cosmopolitanism and modernity that is rooted in the lived and living experience of this old trading port, which for more than six centuries, has been a crucible of numerous communal identities.

For Prelims & Mains

Source: Indian Express