KBF’s ‘Invitations’ exhibitions in multiple venues draw crowds

The Kochi Biennale Foundation (KBF)’s Invitations programme has become one of the most talked-about highlights of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale 2025, drawing large audiences across six venues in Mattancherry and Fort Kochi.

What Makes the Invitations Programme Special
- Launched in 2022:
Designed to honor institutions and collectives shaping cultural life.
- Global Participation:
Teams from India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Kenya, Brazil, Palestine, Trinidad & Tobago, and Panama are showcasing works.
- Upcoming Addition:
In February 2026, the Ghetto Biennale Atis Rezistans (Haiti) will present Spectres of History at St. Andrew’s Parish Hall.

SPACE Gallery, Mattancherry:
Trilogy of Environmental Trials by Khoj International Artists’ Association, exploring ecological issues through staged hearings.

Oottupura, Pazhayannur Bhagavathi Temple:
Conflictorium’s Liberated Zone and Other Displays, spotlighting overlooked histories and radical acts of liberation.

Devassy Jose & Sons, Bazaar Road:
- The Heavy Weight of Tiny Little Things (Sri Lanka’s The Packet collective)
- Armando Queiroz’s Frente Babilonia (Brazil)
- OK.Video by Ruangrupa (Jakarta)
- So We Could Come Back by Dar Yusuf Nasri Jacir (Palestine)
- Biennal das Amazonias’ Inner Strength (Brazil)

Simi Warehouse, Mattancherry:
- Alice Yard (Trinidad & Tobago) – An Instigators’ Handbook for Play, Friendship, Generosity, and Autonomy
- MAC Panamá – Water Binds Me to Your Name

David Hall, Fort Kochi:
Nairobi Contemporary Art Institute’s Scree, blending Kenyan and Kochi histories.

Jail of Freedom Struggle, Fort Kochi:
Alkazi Theatre Archives’ Re: Public/Staging Delhi, in collaboration with Alkazi Collection of Photography.

Why It Matters
The Invitations exhibitions are not just art showcases—they are cross-cultural dialogues. They bring together ecological concerns, liberation narratives, post-independence theatre, and global south connections, all within Kochi’s historic spaces.