That is our saying, for, we do promote fine arts.
Suryakanti, a not-for-profit trust, is engaged in promoting fine arts; particularly painting and sculpture. Conceptualized by Mrs.Lizzie Jacob, career bureaucrat and artist, the Trust was registered by her mother Mrs.Thankamma George in January 1999. Since then Suryakanti has been active in bringing together artists, connoisseurs and art lovers as also in engendering in the public a sense of art appreciation. Suryakanti has been successful in setting up a permanent art gallery, the first of its kind in Thiruvananthapuram, about two decades ago. Suryakanti Art Gallery was inaugurated in August 1999 by H. H. The Maharaja of Travancore, Uthradam Thirunal Marthanda Varma. We feature a diverse group of artistes, ranging from eminent local and national figures to emerging talent. The paintings and sculptures we showcase touch universal themes using local idioms, producing a rich tapestry of ideas and abstractions. Our objectives go beyond bringing together those for whom art is a passion or profession. Suryakanti believes that it is important to make the subtle nuances of different artistic styles more accessible to the public. Through our exhibitions and art appreciation classes, we have successfully awakened curiosity and an aesthetic regard for art among a growing audience. We plan to build up a comprehensive reference library of books on art as also publish books on art. Instituting scholarships and providing studios and other facilities for young talented artists are also on the agenda. Suryakanti performs its functions under the active guidance of a distinguished Board of Trustees (below). We had the benefit of the presence of the well known poet and literateur Dr. K. Ayyappa Paniker in the Board. We pay homage to his memory. We are fortunate in having the association of Shri C.L.Porinchukutty, renowned artist who has served as the Vice Chairman of Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi. The Board has representation of artistes in painting, music, dance, literature and architecture. In the recent times artists from Kerala are quite visible in the Indian contemporary art scene. Many artists have found their way to major galleries and collections. However, there are many others whose works are not shown extensively. Our efforts include presenting these artists on various platforms and providing a more comprehensive picture about the contemporary art scene in Kerala. Over the years since its inception Suryakanti has gained credibility and strength in its agenda.