Kochi-Muziris Biennale Co-Founder Steps Down as President
Bose Krishnamachari, the co-founder and public face of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, has officially resigned from his leadership roles. He stepped down as president of the Biennale and also left the Board of Trustees. The Kochi Biennale Foundation confirmed his departure in a formal statement.
Family Reasons Cited for Resignation
The foundation cited pressing family reasons for Krishnamachari's decision. KBF CEO Thomas Varghese clarified that the resignation stems purely from family matters. Krishnamachari has been associated with the Biennale since its very beginning.
Founding Vision and Transformative Leadership
Krishnamachari founded the Kochi Biennale Foundation in 2010 alongside fellow artist Riyas Komu. Their goal was ambitious. They wanted to bring a world-class contemporary art festival to Kerala's historic shores. At that time, the concept of a Biennale in India seemed largely unprecedented.
Krishnamachari's leadership turned initial skepticism into remarkable success. He helped build South Asia's largest and most influential contemporary art event. His contributions spanned both administration and creative direction.
Key Contributions to the Biennale
Krishnamachari served as co-curator for the inaugural edition in 2012. He established the event's distinctive artist-led philosophy. As president, he skillfully managed complex relationships. This included government partnerships, international diplomacy, and local community engagement.
Under his guidance, the Biennale expanded its reach significantly. It launched the Students' Biennale and developed various outreach programs. These initiatives broadened the event's impact across different audiences.
Resignation Timing and Foundation Stability
The resignation comes during the ongoing sixth edition of the Biennale. This edition carries the title For the Time Being and features curation by Nikhil Chopra. Despite the leadership change, the foundation emphasizes institutional stability.
Dr Venu Vasudevan, chairperson of the KBF, acknowledged Krishnamachari's pivotal role. He described him as one of the most influential figures in the event's evolution. Vasudevan noted how Krishnamachari helped put Kochi firmly on the global art map.
Search for Successor Begins
The foundation has already started the process of identifying a new president. They seek an eminent person with high credentials in the art world. The search aims to find someone capable of taking over this significant mantle. The foundation remains committed to continuing the Biennale's successful trajectory.
