KOCHI: The Kochi Muziris Biennale is a good example of what is possible when different agencies come together to pursue profound goals, said President Pranab Mukherjee.
“The collaborative nature of the partnership between the government and the Kochi Biennale Foundation, and the successful outcome, are proof that great thing could be achieved when the government invests in culture. All over the world, cultural activities are targeted when the need for cost-cutting arises,” he said after inaugurating a seminar on the Importance of Sustainable Culture-building at Cabral Yard, a venue of the Kochi Muziris Biennale, on Thursday.
The president said contemporary art was one of the most significant means to express thoughts, emotions, concerns that are relevant to the present times. He urged that the KMB model be replicated in other parts of the country. “Public fund has the power to act as seed funding, and it inspires others to invest in the creation and innovation of cultural organisations like the Kochi Biennale Foundation, which provides cultural stewardship and plays host to global artistic events."
Kerala Governor P Sathasivam said the Biennale had transformed the God’s Own Country into a paradise of world art. “The Biennale, a space for convergence of contemporary art, is a laudable attempt to sustain the peaceful coexistence that has always been a mark of the Kerala society."
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said the Biennale represented the ‘fair face’ of Kerala’s art scene to the world. “It adds to the glory of the state’s cosmopolitan heritage. The increase in the number of visitors at every new edition of the Biennale is a testimony to this,” he said.
Tourism Minister Kadakampally Surendran also spoke. Kochi Biennale Foundation president Bose Krishnamachari delivered the vote of thanks. Tourism Principal Secretary Venu V and former minister M A Baby were also present. KBF secretary Riyas Komu presented a memento to the President.
Earlier, the President visited Aspinwall House, the main venue of the Biennale.