December 20, 2025

Inside Bengaluru’s gallery culture – the spaces where art learned to speak | Bengaluru News

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Bengaluru’s art ecosystem grew quietly — from artiste-run studios to private, experimental venues that shaped how art is made, seen and discussed. Over time, these spaces evolved alongside changing audiences, the IT boom and new artistic languages. More than exhibition venues, galleries became classrooms, meeting points and collaborative hubs for artistes, curators, collectors and viewers. ‘BEFORE THE ART MARKET, THERE WAS A LOT OF CURIOSITY’ Suresh Jayaram, founder-director of 1 Shanthiroad Studio Gallery, recalls the 1980s, when spaces such as Kritika Art Gallery near Koshy’s welcomed anyone curious. “Kaushalya Dayaram would invite people passing by for a cup of tea and show them the art,” he says, recalling exhibitions by M F Husain, Adi Moolam and Laxma Goud. That openness continued into the 1990s. When Premilla Baid founded Gallery Sumukha in 1996, galleries functioned largely as extensions of artiste studios. “It was about supporting artists and hosting exhibitions without worrying about finances,” she says. “The focus was on the work.”‘PHYSICAL GALLERIES WILL ALWAYS MATTER’ Despite digital visibility, physical galleries remain central. “Galleries nurture artists, create context and build credibility,” says artist Jaya Javeri, adding that they offer mentorship, long-term collaboration and access beyond an individual’s reach. Renu George, founder of Gallery Time and Space, believes that galleries play a crucial role in deepening cultural understanding. “Seeing more art leads to deeper engagement. Conversations with artists explore life culturally, psychologically and politically,” she says. Vivek Radhakrishna, founder of KYNKYNY Gallery, stresses intent-driven spaces. “Social media widens access, but reputed galleries and curators identify serious talent. Gallery representation remains the strongest industry validation,” he notes. Abhishek Poddar says, “Museums and galleries complement one another through partnerships that enable sustained engagement by sharing resources, infrastructure and programming,” he says.

There was a time when Kaushalya Dayaram of Kritika Art Gallery would invite people passing by for a cup of tea and show them the art

Suresh Jayaram

‘THE ENTHUSIASM FOR ART REMAINS’ Today, Bengaluru is culturally vibrant and globally connected. Artist Gurudas Shenoy points to positive signs: “There are more galleries, private initiatives, international exposure – the revival of Venkatappa Art Gallery, new museums and global art events. The city has always supported the arts — that enthusiasm is still intact,” he tells us. Vivek credits the city’s open-mindedness for encouraging experimentation and new genres, while Abhishek notes that contemporary programming and collaborations continue to strengthen Bengaluru’s art ecosystem.

Art is shaped as much by context as by artworks. Public programming, artist residencies, and cross collaborations extend participation

Abhishek Poddar

‘YOUNGER AUDIENCES ARE STEPPING IN’ There is a visible shift in how young people engage with art. “They now buy art for themselves, not just as collectors but as individuals shaping their spaces,” says Jaya. Renu finds it encouraging that younger audiences are discovering original art is accessible. “When they trust their instinct and take that first step, it’s heartening,” she notes. Premilla observes increased student participation. “Every exhibition now includes walkthroughs with artistes, with students asking questions and engaging deeply—something rarely seen earlier,” she says. Suresh attributes this to galleries becoming more welcoming. “People feel comfortable when spaces are open, friendly and inclusive.” Vivek adds that the city’s open, curious mindset has helped establish many names and unusual genres.ICONIC ART SPACES IN B’LURU

  • l Venkatappa Art Gallery
  • l National Gallery of Modern Art (Bengaluru)
  • l Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath
  • l Rangoli Metro Art Centre l Gallery Sumukha
  • l KYNKYNY Art Gallery
  • l Gallery Time & Space
  • l Gallery G l MAP
  • l 1 Shanthiroad Studio Gallery



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