Narrative & Themes

Each edition of the Pune Biennale explores a specific theme that resonates with the city's identity and contemporary concerns. The inaugural edition in 2013 focused on "Celebrating Hills," highlighting Pune's natural landscape and environmental issues. The second edition in 2015 centered around "Heritage - Yours and Mine," examining the preservation and interpretation of cultural heritage.

The third edition in 2017, with its theme "Habit-co-Habit: Artistic Simulations of Some Everyday Spaces," curated by Zasha Colah and Luca Cerizza, investigated the ways artists reflect on topics such as cohabitation, adaptation, and assimilation in urban contexts. This edition aimed to reimagine city's public spaces creatively and bring art closer to people within and beyond the region.

Through these evolving themes, the Pune Biennale creates a platform for critical dialogue about urban development, cultural identity, and social dynamics, inviting both artists and viewers to reimagine their relationship with the city and its spaces.

History & Development

The Pune Biennale was initiated by Bharati Vidyapeeth's College of Architecture, Pune, with the vision to create an inclusive movement that makes art more public and accessible. The project was conceived as a response to the need for greater engagement with art in public spaces and the desire to position Pune on the global art map.

Since its inception, the Pune Biennale has evolved from a local initiative to a significant cultural event that attracts artists, curators, and visitors from across India and beyond. The foundation has consistently worked to expand its reach and impact, developing partnerships with various stakeholders including educational institutions, government bodies, and private organizations.

Exhibition Venues

The Pune Biennale distinguishes itself through its innovative use of diverse urban spaces as exhibition venues. Rather than being confined to conventional galleries, the festival transforms historical sites, public infrastructure, parks, and everyday spaces into dynamic platforms for artistic expression.

For the 2017 edition, exhibitions and installations were strategically placed along Jungli Maharaj Road, one of Pune's central thoroughfares, creating an accessible art corridor through the heart of the city. This approach reflects the biennale's commitment to bringing art directly to the public and engaging with the urban fabric of Pune.

Pataleshwar Caves

Ancient rock-cut temple complex from the Rashtrakuta period, providing a historical backdrop for contemporary art installations.

Sambhaji Park

Public garden featuring outdoor art installations and performances, including Massimo Bartolini's amphitheater sculpture.

Z-Bridge

Iconic bridge across the Mutha River, transformed into an exhibition space showcasing public art interventions.

Moving Art/Spaces

Repurposed shipping containers serving as mobile galleries for contemporary art exhibits throughout the city.

Public Art Initiatives

Beyond the main biennale exhibition, the Pune Biennale Foundation has developed various public art initiatives to engage with the wider community and create a lasting impact on the city's cultural landscape. These projects emphasize participation, education, and the integration of art into everyday urban environments.

By working with diverse stakeholders, including schools, universities, local communities, and government agencies, these initiatives aim to democratize art and foster a sense of ownership and pride among Pune's citizens. They also serve as platforms for emerging artists and creative practitioners to gain visibility and contribute to the city's evolving identity.