Kolkata awoke to a vibrant infusion of cultural dynamism on Wednesday as the freshly constructed Lalit Kala Akademi Regional Centre on AJC Bose Road officially commenced operations. The sun-drenched galleries, adorned with pristine white walls, exuded an atmosphere of eager anticipation, attracting a steady stream of artists, students, and inquisitive visitors throughout the day.
A Renewed Eastern Presence for India's Visual Arts
Established in 1954 with the mission to foster India's visual arts, the Akademi now boasts a revitalized eastern footprint through this lively new venue. Esteemed senior artist Subhaprasanna eloquently expressed the city's collective sentiment, stating, "In a city like Kolkata, which serves as a fertile ground for numerous gifted artists, this centre is poised to become another sanctuary for the creative community, catering to artists, intellectuals, and all cultural enthusiasts. I am optimistic that it will provide substantial support to emerging artists in the years ahead."
Print Biennale India Takes Centre Stage
The inauguration coincided with the grand unveiling of the 3rd Print Biennale India 2026, effectively converting the new structure into an international nexus for printmaking. This prestigious exhibition showcases an impressive 1,449 entries from 204 artists representing 34 diverse nations, presenting a rich tapestry of techniques including woodcuts, intaglio, serigraphy, and various experimental forms.
A Celebration of Printing Technologies and Concepts
Sayantan Maitra, the visionary designer behind the print biennale, encapsulated its essence, remarking, "Visitors will encounter an extensive spectrum of printing technologies—this biennale fundamentally explores the synergy of concepts, manual craftsmanship, chemical processes, and all elements collaborating harmoniously." The month-long event is scheduled to continue until February 15, offering ample opportunity for engagement.
Renowned musician Pandit Tejendra Majumdar highlighted the significance, noting, "It represents a wonderful opportunity for Kolkata's artistic and cultural milieu to acquire a new building exclusively dedicated to its advancement. Moreover, the Print Biennale serves as the perfect embellishment to this development."
The establishment of this regional centre marks a pivotal moment for Kolkata's cultural infrastructure, promising to enhance artistic dialogue, education, and exhibition spaces for both established and budding creatives across Eastern India.
