KOCHI:
Around 45 members of ‘Viewfinders Photography’, a collective of experienced and aspiring shutterbugs, conducted a ‘Photo Walk’ at Aspinwall House – the primary venue for the ongoing third edition of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale (KMB) – on Sunday.
It marked the third time the group – which goes by the motto ‘Grow Photography, Grow Talent’ – took a photo tour of the KMB, having already conducted similar walks in both prior editions. The walk drew participants from as far away as Kozhikode, Kannur, Kollam, even Bengaluru.
“Unlike other art exhibitions, the Biennale offers the opportunity to interact with the artist on the spot and clear doubts. We even had the chance to interact with KMB 2016 artist K.R. Sunil who has exhibited his photographic work at Aspinwall House,” said Sreejith K.S., a freelance photographer and co-founder of the group which connects members from all age groups, from students to working professionals to housewives through Facebook and Instagram.
He added that experiencing first-hand the process and practice of artists like P.K. Sadanandan would help stoke creative impulses in the group in ways not be possible in other spaces.
“The Biennale is an ideal place to identify one’s artistic talent and enhance it as one gets to know the experience of other artists working here,” Sreejith said, adding that Sunil had lent his photographic expertise with the group, instructing them on how to break the ice and approach strangers to take their pictures.
“Compared to previous editions, I find that KMB 2016 has expanded into more mediums. There are even installations based on virtual reality. There is a broader perspective now,” he said.
Stressing the importance of such initiatives, KMB co-founder Bose Krishnamachari said, “The Biennale is a space for people to identify and follow their own avenues for creative expression. Every medium of expression is important to creative people.”
“Content is as important as the medium. In the days of black and white photography, one had to hold on to a frame for long time to get a good shot. But now we have digital photographs, which can be manipulated and erased with ease. It has made creative pursuits more accessible than ever before,” Krishnamachari added.
