On July 26, an eagerly awaited art exhibition titled ‘Notes from Another Shore’ launched at the historic Durbar Hall in Kochi, marking a significant event in the calendar of contemporary art enthusiasts. The month-long exhibition is a synergistic effort by the Abu Dhabi-based Rizq Art Initiative, the Kerala Lalithakala Akademi, the Department of Cultural Affairs, and Abu Dhabi Art. The exhibition aims to promote cultural exchange between Kerala and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). P. Rajeeve, Kerala’s Minister for Industries and Law, inaugurated the exhibition amid much fanfare, terming it “a monumental step in offering international exposure to artists from Kerala.”
Rizq Art Initiative, founded by Shafeena Yusuff Ali, is the primary organizer of this culturally enriching event. Shafeena expressed her excitement about the platform that ‘Notes from Another Shore’ provides, not just for the art community but also for the broader realm of Indo-Arab cultural exchanges. In alignment with her vision, the exhibition is expected to open new avenues for artists hailing from both Kerala and various Arab countries.
A video message from Saji Cherian, Minister for Culture, further added to the anticipation surrounding the exhibition. Minister Cherian expressed optimism that the event could evolve into a global cultural phenomenon, underpinning the aspirations of Kerala’s and the UAE’s artistic communities.
‘Notes from Another Shore’ features a blend of solo and group exhibitions, beginning with the extraordinary works of Emirati artist Hashel Lamki. Lamki’s solo exhibition has been thoughtfully curated by Venetia Porter, creating a harmonious yet thought-provoking artistic narrative. Venues also feature works from other distinguished contemporary Emirati artists like Almaha Jaralla, Samo Shalaby, and Latifa Saeed, curated by Morad Montazami, adding a diversified yet cohesive element to the exhibition.
The backstory of Rizq Art Initiative extends beyond this current exhibition. Prior endeavors include a significant event in the UAE last year, where the works of 27 artists, including 14 representatives from Kerala, were showcased. The current exhibition in Kochi continues this narrative, shining a spotlight on the historical and deeply rooted connections between Kerala and Arab cultures.
. These exhibitions serve as a symbolic testament to the enduring friendship and historical ties between India and the UAE.
To enrich the exhibition’s cultural depth and context, panel discussions featuring renowned artists have been scheduled throughout the month-long event. These discussions aim to cultivate dialogue and inspire budding and established artists alike. Rizq Art Initiative is also focused on fostering talent through fellowships specifically aimed at supporting artists from Kerala. In an effort to sustain this collaborative spirit, the initiative also extends free training for West Asian artists at its headquarters in Abu Dhabi.
The exhibition’s comprehensive program is thoughtfully designed to ensure a robust cultural exchange. The panel discussions are expected to delve into various aspects of contemporary art, focusing on how tradition and modernity can converge to create impactful narratives. The fellowships and training programs serve to democratize access to resources, ensuring that talented artists from various socioeconomic backgrounds can hone their skills and gain international exposure.
These efforts are especially pivotal in the current global context, where cultural understanding and international cooperation are invaluable. The Rizq Art Initiative and its collaborators exemplify a model of how art can transcend geographical borders and foster a shared cultural heritage.
Scheduled to conclude on August 18, the exhibition is expected to attract a significant number of visitors, including students, art enthusiasts, and cultural dignitaries. Its location at Durbar Hall, a site known for its historical and architectural significance, adds another layer of intrigue and appeal. The blending of contemporary art within such a context creates a juxtaposition that speaks to both the timeless nature of cultural exchange and the evolving narratives of modern artistic expression.
As the exhibition progresses, it stands as a beacon of what collaborative efforts between nations can achieve in the realm of art and culture. The potential ripple effects of such an initiative could extend beyond art, influencing areas such as tourism, education, and international relations. Through ‘Notes from Another Shore,’ Kochi and the broader region are not only positioned as cultural hubs but also as active participants in the global art dialogue.
