Kochi Biennale agent for change: Minister

Kerala Culture Minister A.K. Balan on Wednesday said that the state government understood the value of India's only biennial 'Kochi Muziris Biennale' as an agent for change.

Billed as the biggest celebration of contemporary art in South Asia, this KMB edition, which began on December 12, 2016 featured 97 artists from 31 countries.

On the concluding day of this grand cultural event on Wednesday, Balan described KMB as a rallying point against intolerance and infringements on freedom of expression.

"The Biennale, which is the most popular and best attended cultural event in India, is a canvas for humanity, art and learning. The face of Kochi and Kerala has been changed over the past three editions. The government recognizes both its cultural and economic importance and will provide all support going forward," said Balan.

Kochi Biennale Foundation on Wednesday announced renowned contemporary artist Anita Dube as the curator for the fourth edition of the Biennale, beginning in December 2018.

Terming the occasion a "new beginning", KMB 2016 curator Sudarshan Shetty said that his vision for the Biennale reflected the flow of conversations before it started, during its run and after its conclusion. "Once again I ask, what does it mean to be together in time? To be contemporary."

Former Education and Culture Minister and CPI-M politburo member M.A. Baby described the Biennale as an "organic interaction between artists, cultural personalities, state leadership and a vibrant society".

Prior to the closing, visitors got to view more than 100 artworks on display at the Biennale's 12 venues, which have received a footfall of more than six lakh since December.

--IANS

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