Chennai Photo Biennale Edition IV: A Grand Opening with Captivating Visual Narratives !

Chennai Photo Biennale Edition IV: A Grand Opening with Captivating Visual Narratives !

Chennai, December 2024 – The fourth edition of the Chennai Photo Biennale (CPB) was inaugurated with grandeur on 20th December 2024, marking the commencement of a three-month celebration of photography and storytelling. Themed “Why Photograph?”, this biennale features over 20 exhibitions and programs that explore diverse perspectives and challenge the boundaries of lens-based practices.

This December, CPB launched its first phase with two primary exhibitions and three invited shows across Chennai, each offering a unique visual dialogue. The exhibitions will run until 16th March 2025, presenting a wide array of local and global narratives.

Primary Exhibition 1: Vaanyerum Vizhuthugal (Roots that Reach for the Sky)

Venue: VR Chennai, Anna Nagar

Dates: 20th December 2024 – 16th March 2025

Curated by Jaisingh Nageswaran, Vaanyerum Vizhuthugal showcases the works of 12 talented lens-based artists from Tamil Nadu. The exhibition delves into personal and cultural narratives, offering a profound exploration of identity, heritage, and belonging. The inauguration was graced by Mr. PA Ranjith, acclaimed film director, producer, and screenwriter, as the Chief Guest.

Primary Exhibition 2: It’s Time. To See. To Be Seen.

Venue: Lalit Kala Akademi, Thousand Lights

Dates: 20th December 2024 – 16th March 2025

Inaugurated by renowned dancer and cultural advocate Anita Ratnam, It’s Time. To See. To Be Seen. celebrates the voices of 21 women photographers from India, Germany, Switzerland, France, the U.K., and Palestine. This exhibition addresses the gender gap in photography, spotlighting women’s unique perspectives as they respond to the world through their lens.

Key Highlights of the Inaugural Events

The inauguration events witnessed the presence of distinguished dignitaries, including:

Dr. Katharina Görgen, Director, Goethe-Institut Chennai

Mr. Mukund Padmanabhan, Trustee, CPB Foundation

Mr. Jaisingh Nageswaran, Curator, Vaanyerum Vizhuthugal

Mr. Prabhakaran P, AVP Operations, VR Chennai

Mr M. Sovan Kumar, Regional Secretary, Regional Centre Chennai

CPB’s thematic inquiry, “Why Photograph?”, resonates throughout its exhibitions and programs, encouraging audiences to rethink and reimagine the role of photography in society.

The launch is supported by Goethe-Institut Chennai as the Primary Partner and The Hindu – Made of Chennai as a Media Partner. Other collaborators include TNQ Publishing, Photo South Asia, and several key stakeholders.

The Chennai Photo Biennale 2024 invites audiences to engage with its vibrant lineup of events, including workshops, talks, and interactive installations. With its commitment to addressing the gender gap and showcasing Tamil Nadu’s rich photographic talent, CPB Edition IV promises to be a transformative cultural experience.

Invited Projects at CPB4

The much-anticipated Chennai Photo Biennale (CPB) Edition IV extends its thematic inquiry “Why Photograph?” with three invited projects this December that enrich this year’s narrative offerings:

Light Salt Water by Sujatha Shankar Kumar

A poignant exploration of the interconnectedness of nature, light, and water. This meditative visual experience invites viewers to reflect on the delicate balance of natural elements and their profound impact on life.

Venue: Sarala Art Centre

Dates: 20 December 2024 – 5 January 2025

CommonNouns at Raw Mango Store

A creative showcase blending fashion and photography, CommonNouns explores the intersection of everyday objects and visual narratives, offering a refreshing take on storytelling through photographs.

Venue: Raw Mango Store

Dates: 20 December 2024 – 31 December 2024

Madras, Margazhi & Music by Amar Ramesh

A nostalgic series capturing the essence of Chennai’s Margazhi season, celebrating the city's cultural heritage through the lens of Amar Ramesh.

Venue: Narada Gana Sabha, Chennai

Dates: 20 December 2024 – 3 February 2025

For more information and exhibition details, visit the https://chennaiphotobiennale.foundation/

Marveltamilnews.com