Students’ Biennale: ‘Tension of Belongings’ explores complexities of belongings within communities

The Students’ Biennale 2025–26 edition, themed “Tension of Belongings”, is a major art initiative that brings together young artists to explore the layered meanings of “belongings” within communities—both material and emotional.

Theme: Tension of Belongings
- Concept: Investigates how objects, possessions, and cultural artifacts shape identity, memory, and community ties.
- Focus: The tension lies in the duality—belongings as sources of comfort and identity, but also as markers of exclusion, displacement, or contested ownership.
- Artistic Lens: Encourages students to question what it means to “belong” and how belongings carry histories of migration, conflict, and cultural negotiation.

Key Features of the Biennale
- Platform for Emerging Voices: Provides space for student artists across India to present work alongside the Kochi-Muziris Biennale.
- Interdisciplinary Approach: Includes painting, sculpture, installation, video, and performance art.
- Community Engagement: Many projects are site-specific, involving local communities and exploring shared histories.
- Curatorial Direction: Guided by mentors and curators who help students frame their artistic inquiries around the theme.

Why It Matters
Cultural: Highlights how belongings reflect heritage, migration, and collective memory.
Social: Sparks dialogue on inclusion, exclusion, and contested identities.
Educational: Empowers student artists to experiment and engage critically with contemporary issues.
Global: Positions Indian student art within international conversations on identity and belonging.

Context
- The Students’ Biennale is an educational initiative of the Kochi Biennale Foundation, running parallel to the Kochi-Muziris Biennale.
- It has become a launchpad for young artists, fostering critical thinking and professional exposure.
- The 2025–26 edition emphasizes community-based practices, reflecting broader global art trends that prioritize social engagement.