Bengaluru, June 13: The newly renovated Venkatappa Art Gallery was inaugurated today by Shri. H K Patil, Minister for Law & Parliamentary Affairs and Legislation and Tourism, GoK in the presence of Shri. Rizwan Arshad, MLA, Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, IAS, Chief Secretary, GoK, Smt. Salma K. Fahim, IAS, Secretary to Government, Dept of Tourism, GoK, Shri. Devaraju A, KAS, Commissioner, Dept of Archaeology, Museums & Heritage, GoK, Shri. M R Jaishankar, Executive Chairman, Brigade Enterprises Limited and Lifetime Trustee Brigade Foundation, and other dignitaries. The initiative, undertaken by Brigade Foundation marks a significant milestone in the preservation of Karnataka’s artistic heritage while ushering in a new era for contemporary artists and art enthusiasts alike. Shri. Jaishankar has been instrumental in driving this philanthropic effort, ensuring that the gallery continues to serve as an invaluable platform for Karnataka’s artistic community. Brigade Foundation stepped forward in March 2024 to restore and modernize this iconic building.
The renovation involved an extensive restoration process to upgrade the infrastructure while maintaining the integrity of the original structure. This included reinforcement of its foundation, roof, and walls while updating exhibition spaces and public amenities. Dedicated galleries now showcase Karnataka’s celebrated artists K. Venkatappa and K.K. Hebbar, alongside five mini galleries featuring rotating exhibitions. New visitor-centric spaces have been introduced to enrich engagement and art conservation efforts. A dedicated bookstore offers a carefully curated collection on art, culture, and Karnataka’s heritage, serving as a vital resource for scholars and enthusiasts while promoting the work of local authors and artists.
Additionally, a state-of-the-art restoration room has been established, providing conservators with essential tools to maintain and restore both contemporary and historical artworks. Visitors can observe these intricate conservation efforts, gaining a deeper understanding of artistic preservation. Other additions include a modern cafeteria above the auditorium and a welcoming social space, along with a sculpture park where emerging artists can display their work. Accessibility upgrades, including ramps, elevators, and well-planned staircases, replete with enhanced navigation, clear signage, and upgraded public amenities ensure that the gallery is inclusive for all.
Shri. D K Shivakumar, in his remarks said, “Brigade Group has consistently contributed toward the growth of Bengaluru and towards society. As a real estate developer, the group has been responsible for recreating the skyline of Bengaluru city through its various buildings. As the minister in charge of Bengaluru city, I will create a competition at the school and college levels to promote art. We plan to allocate a budget of around ₹25 crores for this and collaborate with the education department to take this forward. The government of Karnataka is open to suggestions from the public and is willing to consider them for the development of Bengaluru. The world is looking at Bengaluru and in order to make it a world class city, government is planning an investment of ₹1 lakh crores for the development of the city of Bengaluru over the next three years.”
Speaking at the inauguration, Shri. H K Patil said, “The renovation work of the Venkatappa Art Gallery, conducted by the Brigade Group is a perfect example of how private partnerships with the government can help transform the city for the benefit of the people. It is commendable that Brigade Group has completed the renovation work and handed over Venkatappa Art Gallery to the government in only 15 months. The department of tourism is happy to consider the request of the Brigade team to name one of the newly created galleries after the Brigade Group.”
In his address, Shri. M R Jaishankar, Executive Chairman, Brigade Enterprises Limited and Lifetime Trustee Brigade Foundation said, “Art has the power to tell stories, bring people together, and shape society, and we must protect and nurture spaces that allow such expressions to thrive. We envisioned the renovated space not only as a tribute to its legacy but also as an evolving platform where emerging artists can find inspiration and recognition. Brigade Foundation’s commitment to preserving art and heritage began with the Indian Music Experience Museum – India’s first interactive music museum – which celebrates our rich cultural diversity through music. The restoration of Venkatappa builds on this vision, preserving art and heritage for fostering creativity and community engagement, artistic interaction, learning, and involvement. This renovation reassures Bengaluru’s reputation as a vibrant cultural hub, making high-quality art experiences more accessible to the common man.” Shri Jaishankar added.
Brigade Foundation has officially transferred the renovated Venkatappa Art Gallery to government authorities to maintain and manage this historic cultural landmark.
