KOCHI: Kochi-Muziris Biennale has become so deep rooted in the cultural landscape of the city that the next generation of artists and art enthusiasts will naturally take this initiative forward in the future, Prof K.V. Thomas MP has remarked. Prof Thomas, who has been a staunch supporter of the art extravaganza since its inception in 2012, was interacting with the media on Sunday after visiting Aspinwall House in Fort Kochi, the primary venue.
“As someone who has been associated with the Biennale from its very origin as an idea in 2010-11, I have seen the agony and suffering of its founders Bose Krishnamachari and Riyas Komu in bringing it to life. Now that it has become a successful entity, it is a matter of pride and joy to everyone,” he said. Mr Krishnamachari and Mr Komu were with him. “The Biennale initiated a unique movement in art, culture and heritage conservation at a time when the state was concerned about it. So it has become deep-rooted in society. It will be continued from generation to generation, which will each remember the great stories and traditions of South Asia’s biggest Biennale.”
Noting the efforts of the then minister for culture M.A. Baby and other patrons like former state police chief P.K. Hormis Tharakan, he said, “They stood as pillars of support for the Biennale and fuelled its success.” “Both the state government and private parties should equally support the bold and novel art initiative, which has already contributed greatly to shaping mindsets and sensibilities Kochi, Kerala and India, and which has the potential of doing even more,” the MP added.
