Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad
Extending beyond the white cube, Thota Vaikuntam’s works enter the public realm to meet audiences in motion. In the artist’s home region of Telangana, key installations in Hyderabad: at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport and HITEC City - offer moments of cultural pause within corridors of transit and innovation. In New Delhi, the initiative continues at the Shangri-La, Bikaner House and within the VIP Lounge, Terminal 1, Indira Gandhi International Airport.
Together, these placements carry Vaikuntam’s vivid Telangana iconography into the everyday, threading art through the rhythms of travel, hospitality, and work - so that encounters with his timeless figures unfold not only in galleries, but across the living fabric of the city.
“You are your own creator. You can't base yourself on others. It has to come from within you.”
Bikaner House, New Delhi
Public art, a profound medium of expression and cultural engagement, remains largely absent in India despite its rich artistic heritage. The Public Art initiative will introduce and integrate public art into India’s urban landscapes. With the aim to create accessible and engaging art experiences for the general public.
The primary objective of this project is to raise awareness about Indian art, the significance of public art and increase its accessibility to a broader audience. We seek to transform urban environments into vibrant cultural spaces that reflect and celebrate India’s diverse artistic talents.
VIP Lounge, Terminal 1, Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi
Public art serves as a powerful means of communication, capable of conveying a wide range of ideas, emotions, and messages to the community. It transcends language barriers and connects with individuals on a deeply personal level, fostering empathy and understanding. Public art also plays a pivotal role in shaping the cultural identity of a place.
It fosters a sense of shared heritage and collective memory, creating landmarks that resonate with the community’s history and values. By transforming mundane spaces into engaging and inspiring environments, public art invites the public to pause, reflect, and interact with their surroundings in meaningful ways. Most importantly, by placing art in public domains, we democratize access to cultural experiences.
Shangri-La, New Delhi
This initiative ensures that art is not confined to galleries and museums but is available to everyone, regardless of their socio-economic background. It bridges the gap between artists and the public, fostering a more inclusive cultural dialogue.
The introduction of public art in India represents a significant step towards fostering a more culturally vibrant and inclusive society. This initiative would create a legacy of art that enriches our urban landscapes and connects with the community on a profound level. By celebrating the talent of eminent Indian artists, along with making art an integral part of everyday life, we can preserve India’s rich cultural tapestry and elevate public spaces through the power of art.
Shangri-La, New Delhi