Whitefield Art Collective Inaugurates Its Eighth Edition with the Theme ‘Future is Now’

Bengaluru, March 27, 2025: The eighth edition of the Whitefield Art Collective was inaugurated today at VR Bengaluru, Whitefield. Supported by the Yuj Foundation, the month-long art festival carries the theme ‘Future is Now’, encouraging dialogue on art’s evolving role in society. Ms. Alison Barrett MBE, Director India, British Council, inaugurated the event, which featured the unveiling of the Kala Car by LGBTQ+ activist and artist Kalki Subramaniam, followed by a Veena recital by maestro Rajesh Vaidhya and a classical dance performance by Srishti Nritya Kala Kuteera students.

A Global Artistic Collaboration

The festival showcases an eclectic mix of art installations, sculptures, paintings, photography, film, puppetry, and interactive workshops. Collaborators include UNESCO, the British Council, the New York-based Arts for the Future Festival, as well as Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath, Bangalore University, and Bangalore School of Design.

Curator Sumi Gupta emphasized the festival’s growth, stating, “The Whitefield Art Collective has evolved into a dynamic platform bringing together global artistic voices. It fosters dialogue, inclusivity, and cultural exchange, ensuring that art remains integral to our collective experience.”

Ms. Alison Barrett from the British Council highlighted the transformative power of art in social discourse, mentioning their global initiative ‘Five Films for Freedom’, which screens LGBTQIA+-themed short films in collaboration with BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival.

Art, Science, and Climate Change Awareness

UNESCO’s Tim Curtis underscored the significance of gender inclusivity in STEM through the A Braided River publication and exhibition. Additionally, the Climate Science Literacy exhibition presents posters aimed at simplifying climate science for the general public. “Building climate literacy is key to preparing communities for the realities of a changing world,” Curtis stated.

Celebrating Inclusivity, Photography, and Sustainable Fashion

A special collaboration with the Chennai Photo Biennale introduces the Hey! Exhibition, featuring works by neurodivergent and differently-abled artists. Other highlights include:

Mapping Bengaluru by MOD Foundation, showcasing archival maps of the city.

Bengaluru in Focus, an open-call photography exhibit capturing the city’s essence.

The Next Wave: Circular Fashion for a New Era, curated by Prasad Bidappa, featuring sustainable fashion designs by Reves La Veste and Reves Art Gallery.


The Young Artists Program and The Basement Art Project return to support emerging talent, while interactive events such as a puppet show, workshops, and a literary series by the Whitefield Literary Society add to the festival’s diverse offerings.

A Hub for Culture and Community

Established in 2016, the Whitefield Art Collective continues to celebrate Bengaluru’s rich artistic diversity, fostering engagement among students, emerging talents, and global artists. Chief Patron Siddharth Yog, Founder of Virtuous Retail, supports this initiative to strengthen artistic exchange and cultural dialogue.

Held at VR Bengaluru, a landmark lifestyle destination in the city, the festival remains a testament to Bengaluru’s evolving cultural landscape. The event runs until March 30, 2025, with screenings, exhibits, and interactive experiences open to the public.

For more information, visit http://www.vrbengaluru.com.