2023 India Art Architecture and Design Biennale

Introduction

The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, is organising the India Art Architecture Design Biennale 2023 (IAADB-23) as its flagship programme to invigorate the cultural space and creative economy. The first edition is being held at the Red Fort, New Delhi—declared a Cultural Space by the Hon’ble Prime Minister in January 2020—from 8th to 15th December 2023.

This initiative is in line with the government’s vision to establish a global cultural platform, comparable with renowned international biennales at Venice, São Paulo, Singapore, Sydney, Sharjah, Jeddah, and prestigious art fairs and design weeks at Dubai, London, Basel, and Berlin.

Vision & Outreach

IAADB-23 is a unique national endeavour with a strong global and pan-India presence. It fulfils the mandate of Jan Bhagidari by ensuring participation of:

• Students
• Emerging & established artists, architects, and designers
• Folk and rural practitioners from across regions

The event aims to energize cultural and creative industries, a sector that contributes 3.1% of global GDP and 6.2% of global employment, while engaging the largest youth workforce aged 15–29 years.

Objectives

• Provide a platform for dialogue and collaboration in art, architecture, design, and allied sectors.
• Showcase India’s ancient, modern, contemporary, and technology-driven art and design.
• Use the arts as a tool for Global Cultural Diplomacy and Connect.

Event Highlights

Venue

• Red Fort, New Delhi – an iconic symbol of Indian art and architecture.
• 3 Barracks chosen for exhibitions.
• Lawns and open spaces for workshops, art bazaars, cultural programmes, and merchandise corners.

Themes & Curations

Each day is built around a unique theme, complemented by curated exhibitions (both physical and digital) for an immersive and interactive experience. Themes include:

• Doors of India
• Gardens of India
• Baolis of India
• Temple Architecture of India
• Architectural Wonders of Independent India
• Indigenous Design
• Women in Architecture and Design

Student Biennale

• Organised from 9th December at the Lalit Kala Akademi.
• Serves as a platform for emerging talent to showcase creativity and imagination.

Extended Display

• Pavilions set up as part of the Biennale will remain open to the public till 31st March 2024.

Significance

The Biennale provides a global stage for Indian creativity, celebrating the best of traditional and contemporary expressions. It brings together grassroot artisans, contemporary designers, curators, and thought leaders to highlight India’s cultural diversity and creative strength.

Commemorative Stamp

The Department of Posts is proud to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on India Art Architecture Design Biennale 2023, acknowledging its crucial role in projecting Indian art and culture on the global stage.