The premier international airport of the State here is gearing up to join a select list of airports across the world with art galleries displaying priceless masterpieces and contemporary craftsmanship.
More than being a point of embarkation, the airport will double up as a home for elaborate and extensive display of works by artists.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is inviting entries, paintings, sculptures or other forms of art, to be displayed at the airport. Initially, a 18-square metre area, inclusive of the wall of the security hold area of Terminal-I (domestic), and a 10.8-square metre area between Gate 1 and 2 of security hold area of Terminal-II (international) will be available for display.
“Additional sites will be considered subject to availability, aesthetics, effect on passenger flow pattern, and commercial viability,” says Airport Director George G. Tharakan.
The artists will be shortlisted by a panel and will be directed to display works at the gallery within three working days.
The exhibits will have price tags fixed on them.
The exhibits will be on display for 10 days and the upkeep of them will be the responsibility of the artist.
On sale of the art work, 10 per cent of the sale value will be levied by the AAI and the remaining will go to the artist. Applications can be submitted till October 16.
With tourist visa on arrival being liberalised and more tourists expected to move through the gateway, the AAI is expecting an overwhelming response to the effort to bring art to the public domain.
