Kochi, Feb 12: The Kochi Biennale Foundation (KBF) hailed Kerala government’s 2016-17 budgetary allocation of Rs 7.5crore for the upcoming edition of Kochi-Muziris Biennale, saying it showed the state administration’s conviction that the contemporary art festival benefits its people socially and economically.
The first and the second editions of Kochi-Muziris Biennale received a total of Rs 12 crore from the government.
Today, after Chief Minister Shri Oommen Chandy presented the state budget in the Assembly, the KBF expressed pleasure that “due recognition” was being accorded to art and culture.
“The allocation reflects the state government’s belief in KBF’s ability to execute a world-class contemporary art exhibition that has had manifold social and economic benefits for the state and region. I thank the government,” said KBF President Bose Krishnamachari.
“We believe it is the power of art and culture and the value of soft power which has made Kochi an international destination for cultural tourism. The biennale has also played a key role in Kochi in the central government’s selection of Kochi as a 'Smart City',” he added.
KBF Secretary Riyas Komu said the latest budgetary allocation would have a national impact. “At a time where we unfortunately lack a comprehensive national policy on the promotion of art and culture, Kerala is showing the way. I thank the government for recognizing the importance of art and protecting it,” he noted. “This is the recognition to KBF’s perseverance to sustain. I congratulate all the artists, patrons, supporters and the biennale team for their dedication and support."
Following the success of two editions of India’s only biennale, work has already begun on the third edition with the announcement of famed artist Sudarshan Shetty as curator. Kochi-Muziris Biennale 2016 is set to begin on December 12 this year and run till March 29, 2017.
