Kochi Reimagined

Every two years, Fort Kochi sheds its familiar rhythms to become something wholly new—an expansive, breathing canvas. This December, the Kochi-Muziris Biennale returns with its sixth edition, titled For the Time Being, curated by the visionary Nikhil Chopra and HH Art Spaces.

In a bold departure from spectacle, Chopra invites us into a dynamic, evolving ecosystem, where art awakens through dialogue, presence, and process itself. The Biennale unfolds across Kochi's living heritage—open-air courtyards, warehouses, colonial godowns—and thrives on site-responsive, collaborative momentum rather than staged displays.

Beyond the White Cube – From Aspinwall House to courtyard spaces, every venue pulses with Kochi's layered histories as art merges with architecture.

Participatory Spirit – Look for the Students' Biennale, immersive workshops, performances, film screenings, "Art By Children", and artist residencies woven throughout the city.

Rooted in Cosmopolitan Heritage – Kochi's historic port of Muziris, a hub of Roman, Arab, Chinese, and Jewish exchange, forms the Biennale's spiritual DNA—an invitation to diverse dialogues and decentralised art.

The government secured Aspinwall House – Once under threat, this heritage gem is now protected, ensuring continuity for the Biennale and reinforcing its cultural significance.

Artist-led, not institution-driven – Since its inception, each edition has emerged from the creative vision of practising artists—true to Kochi's ethos of experimentation over institutionality.

Expect an organic ebb and flow: pop-up performances by the sea at dusk, installation surprises in spice godowns, late-night screenings, street conversations with artists, and laughter in courtyards where fishers and students break bread together.

The Biennale beckons both the visionary travellers and the seekers of deeper connection—those drawn not just to art, but to the hum of ideas, conversation, and creation.

Curious explorers who know that the best art emerges unscripted.

Young creatives and students, weaving their own narratives into the festival's fabric.

Global art-world voices, learning and unlearning through immersive dialogue.

Local communities, from fishermen to vendors, who guide the art into everyday life.

Explore Biennale with our specially curated itinerary that goes beyond galleries.