Introduction

The Kochi-Muziris Biennale is India's largest and most prestigious international exhibition of contemporary art. Established in 2012, it has quickly grown to become a major event on the global art calendar, positioning Kochi as a significant cultural hub and providing a vital platform for contemporary art in South Asia.

Set against the historic backdrop of Fort Kochi and its surrounding areas, the Biennale transforms the coastal city into a vibrant cultural space every two years. The exhibition spreads across various heritage buildings, warehouses, and public spaces, creating a distinctive dialogue between contemporary art and the rich architectural legacy of this former trading port.

What sets the Kochi-Muziris Biennale apart is its unique curatorial vision, which combines international perspectives with a strong connection to local contexts. Led by different artist-curators for each edition, the Biennale emphasizes a non-hierarchical approach to art, giving equal prominence to established and emerging artists from both India and abroad.

The use of these historic spaces creates a unique viewer experience, where art is encountered not in the white cube of contemporary galleries but within spaces that bear the physical traces of history. This approach has become a defining characteristic of the Biennale, distinguishing it from many other international art events and creating a distinctive sense of place and context.

Past Editions

Each edition of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale has been shaped by the unique vision of its artist-curator, exploring different themes while maintaining a connection to the distinctive cultural context of Kochi.

Fifth Edition: "In Our Veins Flow Ink and Fire" (2022-23)

Curated by Singaporean artist and writer Shubigi Rao, the fifth edition was conceptualized as a celebration of "collaborative power and knowledge of community" amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Originally scheduled for 2020, it was postponed twice before eventually opening in December 2022.

The exhibition featured 90 artists from more than 25 countries, with many projects created specifically for the Biennale. Rao's curatorial vision emphasized the role of art in resisting the erasure of histories and identities, exploring how creative practices can preserve and communicate marginalized narratives.

Fourth Edition: "Possibilities for a Non-Alienated Life" (2018-19)

Anita Dube, a contemporary Indian artist known for her conceptual and politically engaged work, curated the fourth edition. Her curatorial approach emphasized participation, community, and the creation of spaces for dialogue and exchange.

A highlight of this edition was the "Pavilion," a participatory space at Cabral Yard designed as a platform for performance, discussion, and interaction. Dube's curation brought particular attention to feminist perspectives and marginalized voices, with a strong representation of women artists and LGBTQ+ perspectives.

Third Edition: "Forming in the Pupil of an Eye" (2016-17)

Curated by Indian artist Sudarshan Shetty, the third edition emphasized the multiplicity of perspectives and experiences, drawing on both traditional knowledge systems and contemporary art practices. Shetty's approach brought together diverse forms of artistic expression, from traditional crafts and performances to cutting-edge contemporary art.

The exhibition attracted over 600,000 visitors, marking a significant increase from previous editions and cementing the Biennale's position as a major cultural event in India and beyond.

Second Edition: "Whorled Explorations" (2014-15)

Under the curation of Jitish Kallat, the second edition explored the historical connections between Kochi and the wider world through the twin lenses of astronomy and maritime navigation. Kallat's curatorial framework drew on Kochi's history as a center for astronomical and navigational knowledge exchange between Eastern and Western cultures.

The exhibition placed contemporary art in dialogue with historical artifacts and scientific instruments, creating connections between past and present forms of knowledge and exploration.

First Edition (2012-13)

The inaugural edition was co-curated by the Biennale's founders, Bose Krishnamachari and Riyas Komu. Despite facing significant organizational and financial challenges, this groundbreaking event successfully established the template for future editions, bringing together 89 artists from 23 countries.

The first Biennale was a major milestone in India's cultural landscape, creating a new platform for international contemporary art in a country that had previously lacked such a venue.

Notable Artists

Over its various editions, the Kochi-Muziris Biennale has featured a diverse array of artists from India and around the world, ranging from established international figures to emerging talents. Here are some notable artists who have participated in past editions: