Hampi Art Labs stands speaks to the symbiotic relationship between history and innovation. The architecture, a harmonious marriage of ancient Vijayanagara Empire remnants and contemporary design principles, serves as an ode to the rich cultural tapestry of Hampi. The flowing design, conceived by Sameep Padora and his studio sP+a, pays homage to the awe-inspiring ruins and intricate details of the Vijayanagara era.
Opening in February 2024, the Hampi Art Labs, located near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi, Karnataka, is poised to become a groundbreaking arts center, blending cultural heritage with contemporary design principles.
Local materials, reminiscent of historical constructions, are integrated into the building, showcasing a thoughtful commitment to the region's heritage. Traditional building methods like stone masonry and architectural motifs from the Vijayanagara era are utilized, creating a space that breathes with the spirit of history.
As visitors navigate through the labyrinthine corridors of Hampi Art Labs, they encounter spaces intentionally designed for artistic workshops, exhibitions, and collaborative endeavors. The integration of contemporary art installations and technology within the ancient settings sparks a dialogue between the past and the present, fostering an environment conducive to artistic exploration and innovation.
Spearheaded by the JSW Foundation, the sprawling complex prioritizes harmony with the surrounding landscape, featuring courtyards, gardens, and open-air spaces that invite natural light and ventilation. This intentional design not only inspires creativity but also emphasizes the lasting significance of Hampi's cultural heritage.
The genesis of Hampi Art Labs extends from the JSW Foundation's legacy of supporting art and heritage for over three decades. Founded by Sangita Jindal and her daughter Tarini Jindal Handa, the center spans 9 acres, offering artists unique production facilities, a space for creative retreat, and galleries for world-class displays.
JSW Foundation's commitment to preserving cultural legacy is exemplified by their meticulous restoration of the Chandramouleshwar Temple, a 15th-century temple in Hampi. Honored with the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Award in 2012 for Cultural Heritage Conservation, JSW Foundation has consistently demonstrated a dedication to conserving the subcontinent's cultural heritage.
As Hampi Art Labs prepares for its grand opening in February 2024, a special talk is scheduled at the India Art Fair Auditorium on February 1 at 4:30 pm. The talk will feature Sangita Jindal, Chairperson of the JSW Foundation, Aaron Cezar, Director of Delfina Foundation, Eve Lemesle, Founder and Director of What About Art, contemporary artist Madhvi Subrahmanian, and Sameep Padora, Principal Architect at sP+a. This collaboration not only underscores a shared commitment to the arts but also exemplifies how the India Art Fair and JSW Foundation have found synergies and meaningful avenues to support each other within the Indian art ecosystem.
Hampi Art Labs represents more than just a physical structure, it is a bridge between time, space, and imagination, poised to redefine the landscape of artistic exploration in India.
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