Bengaluru: The wave of unrelenting protests against the government's decision to bring in PPP model for Venkatappa Gallery, which will have the Tasveer Foundation revamp the space, does appear somewhat misguided. VAG holds a sentimental place in the hearts of many an artist - understandably so - but what would they rather have at the end of the day? A run-down, apathetic space that nobody visits, or a world class museum?
Abhishek Poddar, who addressed his critics in writing on Thursday, is currently in talks with the Smithsonian, perhaps the world's most important group of museums and research centres. If all goes as planned, a team of experts from Washington D.C. (the headquarters of the Smithsonian) will visit Bengaluru and help create a blueprint for the project and even train the staff who will work there.
“Yes, we do have many state-run arts institutions, and yes, these do hold a nostalgic and emotional attachment for many people, as they have remained unchanged for generations. We also have a certain number of committed individuals – artists, writers, thinkers, who do use and engage with these ailing state galleries and museums, and work hard in trying to keep them going, against the odds.
But we have to face facts – this is not enough, and has kept such spaces stuck in the past – our museum sector is at the very least 40-50 years behind in comparison to other parts of the world and we need to take a bold step forward in admitting some of these shortcomings, and in doing something about it.”
