Chennai Comes Alive with Art

 The Madras Art Guild, with support from the Yuj Foundation, began its fourth edition on February 14, 2025, under the theme 'Transcending Boundaries'. The festival was inaugurated by Muneo Takahashi San, the Consul-General of Japan in Chennai, who performed a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony and unveiled the 'Kala Car'. The opening evening featured a classical dance by Remya Nambeesan, a fashion show by Japanese artist Kazuko Barisic San, and an exclusive exhibition viewing at the Fine Art Gallery and Chennai Photo Biennale.

The festival displays over 1000 installations, sculptures, paintings, and photographs. These installations were created by students from various educational institutions including Annai Kamakshi Music and Fine Arts College, The Pupil School, and others. The Kala Car was made in collaboration with artists Bhagwan Chavan and Pravin Kannanur. The Basement Art Project, which turns the basement of VR Chennai into an art gallery, showcases works from multiple art schools. Throughout the month, VR Chennai will be a hub of cultural activities featuring installations, exhibitions, music, workshops, and a bazaar.

This edition involves important collaborations that enhance the festival's vision. A partnership with UNESCO New Delhi will showcase a photo exhibition titled “A Braided River,” focusing on STEM education and climate literacy. The guild’s collaboration with the Consulate General of Japan includes integrating Japanese art and culture with events like a fashion show combining kimonos and sarees, a retrospective of artist Shine Misako San, and various workshops showcasing Japanese traditions. The collaboration aims to provide a platform for cultural exchange.

Moreover, there is an international partnership with the New York-based Arts for the Future Festival, aimed at promoting inclusivity for artists globally. The festival aims to be a catalyst for cultural exchange and preservation, supported by strategic partnerships with various organizations.

Sumi Gupta, the curator of the Madras Art Guild, emphasized the festival’s aim to create global partnerships and offer new ways for artists and audiences to engage with each other. Tim Curtis, from UNESCO, highlighted the importance of addressing global challenges like climate change and the need for empowerment in STEM fields, especially for women. He stressed that enhancing climate science literacy is vital for preparing communities for environmental changes. 

Muneo Takahashi noted that the guild serves as a platform for artistic dialogue, promoting deep cultural ties between Japan and India while enabling cross-cultural appreciation. The Madras Art Guild also collaborated with the Chennai Photo Biennale, showcasing exhibitions that highlight diverse creativity, including narratives by individuals with disabilities, local students, and portraits honoring Carnatic music.

The festival also offers an open call for exhibitions by senior photographers and discussions on Tamil cinema, featuring prominent filmmakers and artists. Each week focuses on different art forms, including a Children's Film Festival and a workshop for fostering creativity and storytelling among children. The festival includes a literature fest featuring popular authors and a bazaar featuring local artisans.

Additionally, the Public Art Festivals, in partnership with Art Reach, empower marginalized communities through creative workshops. This year, student artists will be mentored by well-known creators through the Artist Mentorship Program. Various collaborations with organizations like the British Council and Flow India have contributed to the festival’s success.