Bengaluru, 27th March 2025: The Whitefield Art Collective, supported by the Yuj Foundation, was inaugurated on 27th March 2025. This year’s theme, ‘Future is Now’, invites viewers to engage with the art and ideas shaping tomorrow. Ms Alison Barrett MBE – Director India, British Council inaugurated the month-long festival. The ceremony commenced with the unveiling of the ‘Kala Car’, an artistic creation by Kalki Subramaniam, a renowned LGBTQ+ activist, artist, writer, and poet, and a traditional lamp lighting. It was followed by a mesmerizing Veena recital by maestro Rajesh Vaidhya and a classical dance performance by the students of Srishti Nritya Kala Kuteera.
The eighth Whitefield Art Collective showcases art installations, sculptures, paintings, film, puppetry, photography and workshops. Collaborators include global organizations such as the UNESCO, British Council, and the New York-based Arts for the Future Festival (powered by the United Nations Civil Society Conference), alongside esteemed institutions like Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath, Bangalore University, and Bangalore School of Design.
“The Whitefield Art Collective has evolved into a dynamic platform that brings together artistic voices from across the world. Rooted in Bengaluru’s rich cultural landscape, it encourages cross-cultural engagement and artistic innovation. The Whitefield Art Collective has evolved into a dynamic platform that brings together artistic voices from across the world.
As the festival enters its eighth edition, it continues to offer artists new avenues while inviting audiences to experience art in transformative ways. Each edition gives me the opportunity to witness the profound impact art can have, not just as an aesthetic experience but as a force that fosters dialogue, inclusivity, and cultural exchange. This edition is about fostering new ideas and ensuring that art remains an integral part of our collective experience,” said Sumi Gupta, curator of the Whitefield Art Collective.
“The eighth edition of Whitefield Art Collective stands as a powerful testament to the transformative impact of art in shaping our future. At the British Council, we believe art and creativity have the power to connect communities, spark dialogue and drive change. We are delighted to support this vibrant festival, particularly through our annual global initiative ‘Five Films for Freedom’ – in association with BFI Flare – which celebrates global stories in support of LGBTQIA+ communities across the world. I’m honoured to inaugurate this remarkable festival in Bengaluru, where art, films and performances will spark meaningful conversations that inspire a more inclusive, connected and creative future,” said Alison Barrett MBE, Director India, British Council.
“Women scientists and engineers bring invaluable creativity and expertise to the table. Increasing their participation is not just about equity—it’s about unlocking solutions that are essential for the future of our planet. The publication A Braided River: The Universe of Indian Women in Science and the exhibition, is a step toward fostering equal respect, pay, and opportunities for women in STEM fields globally. The ‘Climate Science Literacy’ exhibition, featuring a series of posters aims to make climate science accessible. Building climate literacy is key to preparing communities for the realities of a changing world, understand the root causes of climate change and the actions needed to mitigate its impact,” said Tim Curtis, Director and Representative, UNESCO Regional Office for South Asia.
A partnership with the British Council presents ‘Five Films for Freedom’. This global initiative, in collaboration with BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival, featured five LGBTQIA+-themed short films that foster conversations on inclusivity, cultural exchange, and love as a fundamental human right. Screenings continue till March 30, 2025, at VR Bengaluru.
Whitefield Art Collective features a special collaboration with the Chennai Photo Biennale, which debuts in Bengaluru with their Hey! Exhibition of works by differently abled individuals and neurodivergent artists that now travels from the biennale to VR Bengaluru.
Diverse artworks including paintings from Gita Hudson’s Sunflower Series and Korean artist Soonyoung Yang’s Through the Window offer unique perspectives. A photo exhibit, Mapping Bengaluru by MOD Foundation, explores the city’s origins through archival maps. The ever-popular Bengaluru in Focus returned this year with entries selected through an open call, capturing the essence of the city.
Adding a fusion of art and fashion to the lineup, The Next Wave: Circular Fashion for a New Era presents a collection by Reves La Veste and Reves Art Gallery, curated by Prasad Bidappa. The fashion walk highlights the future of sustainable fashion, blending artistic expression with innovative design.
The Young Artists Program, a competition for budding young artists, and The Basement Art Project, showcasing works by student artists from Bangalore University, have returned to celebrate creativity and emerging talent. Visitors can also enjoy a puppet show and workshop, offering a uniquely interactive experience. The Art Bazaar creates spaces for artisans to engage directly with their audience, enriching the cultural celebration. Whitefield Literary Society has literary events for book lovers throughout the festival.
Established in 2016, the Whitefield Art Collective is a vibrant platform celebrating Bengaluru’s artistic diversity, bringing together students, emerging talents, and renowned artists alongside global and local institutions. Supported by Siddharth Yog, Founder of Virtuous Retail and Chief Patron of Yuj Foundation, the initiative reflects a commitment to fostering artistic exchange and cultural dialogue. Various workshops hosted at the centre encourage participants to explore their creative potential, creating an environment that nurtures learning and innovation in the arts.
