KOCHI:
Joining the league of ‘Platinum Patrons’, Keralite NRI businessman Adeeb Ahamed of the Abu Dhabi-headquartered Lulu Financial Group has pledged Rs one crore to the fourth edition of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, which gets underway on December 12.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in this regard, was inked in Kochi on Friday by Adeeb Ahamed, Managing Director, Lulu Financial Group, Tablez and Twenty 14 Holdings and KBF President, Bose Krishnamachari in the presence of N P Kurian, General Manager KBF, and Ajit Johnson, Corporate Communications Head, Lulu Financial Group.
Ahamed, Managing Director of LuLu Financial Group, Tablez and Twenty14 Holdings, said, “I am delighted to have this opportunity to support the Kochi-Muziris Biennale. The Foundation has made substantial contributions to the development and direction of the art and cultural landscape in India that have been recognised both regionally and internationally.”
He added: “Kochi Biennale is not just about art and artists. It is a commitment towards bridging art and society and make artistic expressions more accessible, easier to understand, and closer to the community over the years. The installations and works showcased by the Foundation have become important points of reference in a dialogue among artists and peers all over the world. I am excited to be a part of this history, and I look forward to expanding the conversation in 2018.”
Hailing the contribution of Ahamed, KBF President Bose Krishnamachari said it is a vital step in the sustenance and flourishing of the “People’s Biennale”.
“I hugely welcome and appreciate his gesture, and look forward to our new partnership with great enthusiasm,” he added.
KBF Secretary and acclaimed artist Riyas Komu said it signalled an affirmation of corporate support for the KMB, which has shaped up to be an internationally respected art event with huge implications for the culture and commerce of Kerala. Komu also expressed that the Foundation is “proud that the importance and impact of the Biennale is being recognised. Ahamed’s patronage shows his faith in the spirit and vision of the Biennale, the potential of cultural investment, and we appreciate his coming forward to support us.”
The fourth edition of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, curated by Anita Dube, will run from December 12, 2018 through March 29, 2019.
