Opening in February 2024, Hampi Art Labs set to become a legendry art and design research center
Blending the vestiges of glorious Vijayanagara Empire with contemporary design, its architecture pays homage to a rich cultural heritage of Hampi. The fluid design, conceptualised by Sameep Padora of studio sP+a mimics the stunning intricate details motifs of the Vijayanagara era.
Sprawling across 18 acres of rocky landscape hewn by river Tungabhadra , the new art center near the UNESCO World Heritage Site Hampi comprises of exhibition spaces, studios, and apartments for residencies, gardens, and a café, the centre offers artists unique production facilities, an environment to retreat in creatively, and galleries for world-class display.
Evolving from a legacy of supporting art and heritage in India for over 30 years and founded by Sangita Jindal and her daughter Tarini Jindal Handa, Hampi Art Labs is an initiative of the JSW Foundation – the social development arm of the JSW Group, one of India’s leading business houses.
Local materials, reminiscent of historical constructions, are integrated into the building, showcasing a thoughtful commitment to the region’s heritage. Traditional building methods like stone masonry and architectural motifs from the Vijayanagara era are utilized, creating a space that breathes with the spirit of history.
As visitors navigate through the labyrinthine corridors of Hampi Art Labs, they encounter spaces intentionally designed for artistic workshops, exhibitions, and collaborative endeavors. The integration of contemporary art installations and technology within the ancient settings sparks a dialogue between the past and the present, fostering an environment conducive to artistic exploration and innovation.
The sprawling complex prioritizes harmony with the surrounding landscape, featuring courtyards, gardens, and open-air spaces that invite natural light and ventilation. This intentional design not only inspires creativity but also emphasizes the lasting significance of Hampi’s cultural heritage.
Hampi Art Labs education programme will offer initiatives engaging the local community and international visitors with contemporary art in all its forms. Learning activities and workshops will be developed for schools in the area. The centre seeks to create cultural links across the Global South through its residencies, programming & collaborations with like-minded institutions and organisations.
Residency Batch have already been started from January to March 2024 at Hampi Art Labs! At the intersection of art and heritage, Anirudh Shaktawat, Bhasha Chakrabarti, Madhavi Gore, Promiti Hossain, and Sharbendu De are set to explore Hampi’s cultural tapestry through their diverse artistic lenses.
Throughout their stint, this first batch of residency artists will immerse themselves in Hampi’s legacy, drawing inspiration from its ancient architecture, vibrant traditions, and the community’s spirit. They’ll engage in a dynamic exchange of ideas, workshops, and collaborations, culminating in an exhibition that celebrates the fusion of contemporary artistry with Hampi’s timeless heritage.
As Hampi Art Labs prepares for its grand opening in February 2024, a special talk is scheduled at the India Art Fair Auditorium on February 1 at 4:30 pm. The talk will feature Sangita Jindal, Chairperson of the JSW Foundation, Aaron Cezar, Director of Delfina Foundation, Eve Lemesle, Founder and Director of What About Art, contemporary artist Madhvi Subrahmanian, and Sameep Padora, Principal Architect at sP+a.
Hampi Art Labs not only livened up the imposing grandeur of Vijaynagar empire but also enhanced a ecology and cultural identity.
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