What You Shouldn’t Miss At The Kochi-Muziris Biennale 2016

Text by Huzan Tata

India’s first biennale is back in its third edition, ‘forming in the pupil of an eye’, and featuring 97 artists

While exhibitions and arresting installations will continue to capture the imagination of art patrons, travellers and aficionados alike, the Kochi-Muziris Biennale’s various other initiatives aren’t to be missed! Verve gives you a peek into the latest edition:

Let’s Talk Series

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This year’s edition will see the works of 97 artists. And who better to dish out knowledge on a subject than the artists themselves? In this series, thespians, musicians, and transdisciplinary artists will lead talks and symposiums, from discussions on music to INK Salons, cinema, visual politics and more.
The talks will take place at various venues across Kochi.

The Students’ Biennale

While you spot creations by many noted names all across the coast for the next three months, take some time out to experience the works of emerging artists. The exhibition is being put together by 15 young curators who’ve worked closely with a dedicated advisory committee of artists and educators. The new curators had the chance early this year to gain experience from reputed names in the art world including Vivan Sundaram, Shilpa Gupta, Dayanita Singh, Sneha Raghavan and Sabih Ahmed.
The Students’ Biennale runs parallel to the Kochi-Muziris Biennale and its second edition is due to open on December 13, 2016 at Kochi.

The Nicobar Edit

When you’re a lover of art, how can good design be forgotten? Mumbai-based design studio Nicobar makes its way to the sands of Kochi for a special pop-up at the biennale. After your fix of installations for the day, head to the white tent and stock up on products for both your home and your wardrobe, as well as souvenirs and keepsakes.
The store is situated at David Hall – Art Gallery & Cafe, Near Bishop House, Fort Kochi

Pichvai: Tradition And Beyond

Among the collateral events of the biennale is this showcase of traditional Pichvais that introduce contemporary viewers to an age-old art form that is an integral part of India’s craft and culture. Curated by Pramod Kumar KG, the exhibition showcases a collection of expertly crafted interpretations of Pichvai work.
The exhibition will take place at Heritage Arts, Jew Town Road, Mattancherry

For the schedule and more updates, visit www.kochimuzirisbiennale.org. Follow Verve’s Instagram feed for live updates from the opening week of the biennale.

Read our previous interview with Dia Mehta Bhupal here.
View Dia Mehta Bhupal’s photography at The Kochi-Muziris Biennale here.
Read about our top 12 picks from The Kochi-Muziris Biennale here.
Read our first-person account of The Kochi-Muziris Biennale here.
Read about Diya Mehta Bhupal’s ideas that flow through her work here.