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As a historic port city on the southwest coast of India, Kochi is a thriving hub for art and culture. Known for its blend of heritage architecture, coastal landscapes, and diverse communities, Kochi has become an exciting destination for art lovers. The city beautifully merges its colonial past with a contemporary art scene, attracting creators and collectors from around the world. If you want to explore Kochi through an artistic lens, here are five places to visit in Kochi where art and culture come alive.
Located in Fort Kochi, David Hall is a beautifully restored 17th-century Dutch bungalow that combines art and history. This art gallery and café is dedicated to promoting local and contemporary art and often showcases works by emerging Indian artists. The gallery has a dynamic exhibit rotation that includes paintings, installations, and multimedia art. The venue also hosts art workshops and cultural events, offering a relaxed, community-driven space for artists and art lovers to gather. After exploring the exhibits, visitors can unwind at the quaint café, which offers a selection of delicious snacks, coffee, and refreshing beverages, making it a perfect spot to soak in the artistic atmosphere of Fort Kochi.
Address: 1, 264, Napier Street, opp. Parade Ground, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Visiting Hours: 8:30 AM- 9 PM (all days)
Aspinwall House is an iconic heritage property on the Kochi waterfront that serves as a central venue for the Kochi-Muziris Biennale and other art events throughout the year. Built in the 19th century by the English trader John Aspinwall, this vast compound includes warehouses, courtyards, and smaller buildings, all transformed into galleries and exhibition spaces during the Biennale. The architecture of Aspinwall House itself is impressive, with its colonial-era features providing a compelling backdrop for contemporary art installations. Art lovers can wander through rooms filled with large-scale works, installations, and interactive art that respond to the historical and cultural themes central to the Biennale. Aspinwall House is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience art in an expansive, atmospheric setting.
Address: River Rd, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Visiting Hours: 10 AM- 6 PM) all days
For those interested in traditional art forms, the Kerala Folklore Museum is a treasure trove of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. Located in Thevara, this private museum houses a diverse collection of artefacts, costumes, sculptures, and paintings that reflect the folk art and traditions of Kerala and South India. The building is an artwork that is designed using ancient temple architecture styles with intricately carved wooden pillars and ceilings. Art lovers will appreciate the museum’s exhibits on Kathakali, Theyyam, and other regional performance arts, as well as traditional crafts like mural paintings and woodwork. The museum frequently hosts cultural performances and workshops, giving visitors a deep dive into Kerala’s folk arts and crafts.
Address: 2059C, No 26, Pandit Karuppan Rd, near Thevara Ferry Road, Junction, Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala 682013
Visiting Hours: 9 AM- 6 PM (all days)
Pepper House, an 18th-century waterfront warehouse complex, has become a major cultural centre in Kochi and is a favourite among artists, filmmakers, and writers. This heritage space functions as a gallery, café, and artist residency, frequently hosting exhibitions, talks, and workshops. The airy courtyard and galleries are used as art spaces during the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, where visitors can find multimedia installations and experimental art forms. Pepper House is also home to a cosy café and a well-curated art bookshop, providing a space where visitors can relax and reflect on the art they’ve seen. It’s where local and international artists intersect, creating a community atmosphere rich in cultural exchange.
Address: 11/10 A&B, Calvathy Rd, near Hotel Seagull, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 68200
Visiting Hours: 11 AM- 7 PM (all days)
