Cholamandalam Artists Village

Cholamandam Artists

The Cholamandam Artists Village, situated about 9 km from Chennai city is a haven for art lovers and artisans alike. Set amidst 10 acres of land, this artist village showcases contemporary art. It is the country's largest self-supporting art village. Way back in 1964, the principal and students of the Madras School of Arts and Crafts set up this institution that has come to be recognized as a significant school of art and crafts.

Located in Injambakkam on the East Coast Road, this village is named after the Chola dynasty that patronized arts and crafts. At that time, there were no institution or outlet for those seeking to pursue a career in arts. The Late K.C.S Paniker was one of the pioneering spirits behind the Cholamandalam Arts Village in Chennai. Artists live as a community and pooled together their skills and resources.

The Cholamandalam Arts Village has a permanent art gallery to hold exhibitions. Sculptures made of granite; wood, copper and bronze are created within the Artists Village. The open-air theater is a platform for performing artists or even poetry reading sessions and dance recitals.

Indian arts such as batik and pottery and painting are seen in the myriad articles and works done by the artists of the Cholamandalam village. You can view or purchase interesting pieces in terracotta and batik. In fact Cholamandalam has grown to be an important hub or meeting place for international artistes in sylvan surroundings. Visitors to the Cholamandalam Artists Village can get to see different art forms on display. There are 2 gallery halls. You can even walk down and see the interesting houses of the artists. There is an exhibition hall too. Visitors are allowed between 10.00am and 7.30pm.