Kochi Biennale Foundation Announces Jitish Kallat as New President to Lead Curator Selection
The Kochi Biennale Foundation has made a significant announcement regarding the leadership of the prestigious Kochi–Muziris Biennale. Jitish Kallat, a renowned contemporary artist based in Mumbai, has been appointed as the president of the biennale. His primary responsibility will be to chair the selection process for the curator of the next edition of this major international art event.
Foundation Chairperson Venu Announces the Appointment
The announcement was formally made by Venu V., the chairperson of the Kochi Biennale Foundation. Kallat, who has been a member of the foundation's board of trustees, previously served as the curator of the second edition of the biennale in 2014–15, titled Whorled Explorations. He has accepted this new role at the explicit request of the board, following the decision of Bose Krishnamachari, co-founder of the biennale, to step down earlier this year.
In a statement, Venu expressed the foundation's gratitude, saying, "We are grateful to Jitish Kallat for agreeing to chair the selection of the curator for the next edition of the Kochi–Muziris Biennale. His long association with the biennale and his international experience in the contemporary art field make him well placed to take this forward."
Jitish Kallat's Artistic Background and Vision
Jitish Kallat is recognized as one of India's leading contemporary artists. His work is celebrated for exploring complex themes at the intersections of:
- Science and historical memory
- Existential inquiry and humanity's planetary presence
- The everyday with the cosmic, and the present with the historical
His artistic practice often juxtaposes terrestrial elements with celestial concepts, reflecting on humanity's place in the cosmos. This unique perspective is expected to influence his approach in selecting a curator who can continue the biennale's legacy of thought-provoking exhibitions.
Kallat's Commitment to the Biennale's Future
Upon his appointment, Jitish Kallat shared his thoughts on the significance of the Kochi–Muziris Biennale. He stated, "The Kochi–Muziris Biennale played an extraordinary role in shaping conversations around contemporary art in India and beyond. At the board's request, I agreed to chair the selection of the curator for the next edition, and I look forward to working with colleagues to ensure a thoughtful and rigorous selection."
His commitment underscores the importance of maintaining the biennale's high standards and its impact on the global art scene.
Current Edition and Future Prospects
The sixth edition of the Kochi–Muziris Biennale, titled For the Time Being, is currently ongoing. Curated by Nikhil Chopra in collaboration with HH Art Spaces, this edition is set to conclude on March 31. As Kallat steps into his new role, the art community eagerly anticipates how his leadership will shape the selection of the next curator and influence future editions of this landmark event.
This appointment marks a pivotal moment for the Kochi–Muziris Biennale, ensuring continuity and innovation in its curation and artistic direction under Kallat's experienced guidance.
