Kochi-Muziris Biennale-2025: ‘Edam’ exhibition of Kerala artists begins

The ‘Edam’ exhibition has officially opened as part of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale 2025, creating a parallel platform dedicated to showcasing the diverse art practices of Kerala.

Highlights of Edam
- Launch Date & Venue:
Began on December 13, 2025 at Mattancherry, Kochi, across three venues — Armaan Collective & Café, Garden Convention Centre, and Cube Art Spaces (opening next week).
- Duration:
Runs for 109 days, concluding alongside the Biennale on March 31, 2026.
- Artists:
Features 36 artists/collectives from across Kerala, spanning generations and disciplines.
- Curators:
Led by Aishwarya Suresh (textile-based artist and educator) and K.M. Madhusudhanan (interdisciplinary artist and filmmaker).
- Notable Participants:
Includes self-taught veteran Devu Nenmara (63 years old), the oldest participant, alongside emerging talents and established names such as Abul Kalam Azad, Dr. Indu Antony, Murali Cheeroth, and Tom J Vattakuzhy.

Concept & Vision
- Conceived in 2022 by the Kochi Biennale Foundation (KBF) to extend the Biennale’s platform specifically for Kerala artists.
- Designed as an inter-generational dialogue, encouraging exchange across time, medium, and thought.
- Explores Kerala’s traditions, heritage, and culture, while also being inspired by global influences.
- Aims to spur conceptual thought and writing, highlighting practices rooted in local ecosystems — from village studios to experimental urban spaces.

Significance
‘Edam’ enriches the Biennale by spotlighting Kerala’s own artistic voices, ensuring that the state’s cultural depth is represented alongside international works. It’s both a celebration of local identity and a conversation with global art movements.