The Ministry of Culture took a significant step towards fostering a vibrant cultural tapestry with the curtain raiser event and logo launch for the India Art Architecture Design Biennale (IAADB ’23). The event, held at the National Gallery of Modern Art in Delhi, marked the initiation of a transformative journey set to unfold in December 2023, with events spanning across Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
In a video message, G Kishan Reddy, the Union Minister for Culture, Tourism, and DONER, shared the exciting news of the inaugural India Art Architecture Design Biennale. He expressed his best wishes for the success of the Biennale, emphasizing its potential to become a beacon in India’s vibrant festival landscape.
Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Meenakashi Lekhi, delivered the keynote address, envisioning the IAADB as a showcase of India’s architectural and artistic brilliance on the global stage. She highlighted the Biennale’s role in initiating dialogues, fostering innovation and collaboration by bringing together grassroots artisans and contemporary designers, thereby contributing to the creative economy.
Mugdha Sinha, the Joint Secretary, provided a comprehensive overview of the upcoming Biennale, scheduled to take place from December 9th to 15th, 2023, at the iconic Red Fort. The event promises a dynamic exploration of various themes through exhibitions and panel discussions, each day centered around specific themes curated by industry experts. Themes include doors and gateways, enchanting gardens, awe-inspiring stepwells, majestic temple architecture, modern wonders of independent India, the contemporary face of indigenous design, and the role of women in architecture.
Importantly, it was revealed that the IAADB 2023 would serve as a precursor to India’s participation in the Venice Biennale 2024, facilitating a comprehensive dialogue among practitioners and professionals in art, architecture, and design. The Biennale aims to transcend boundaries, bringing traditional grassroots artists, contemporary designers, curators, architects, and thought leaders to the forefront.
Aligning with the vision of the Prime Minister, the IAADB will also mark the launch of the Development of Cultural Spaces project at the Red Fort, contributing to the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage.
The curtain-raiser event witnessed a significant turnout, with diplomats, artists, architects, designers, curators, government officials, gallerists, and museum professionals in attendance. The evening was further enriched by the captivating performance of the jazz quartet ‘Capital Three.’
For the latest updates and information, enthusiasts are encouraged to follow the official Instagram page of the India Art, Architecture, and Design Biennale at @iaadb2023, where the journey of creativity, innovation, and collaboration will continue to unfold. As the countdown begins, the IAADB ’23 promises to be a landmark event, celebrating the rich tapestry of India’s cultural and artistic diversity.