The Kochi-Muziris Biennial, South Asia's largest contemporary art biennial, has announced the 66 artists from over 20 countries participating in its 2025 edition, titled “For The Time Being.” Running from December 12 to March 31 across venues including Aspinwall House and Pepper House in Kochi, India, the event features around 50 new commissions and a theme centered on the body, memory, and temporality. The announcement comes after the 2023 edition was marred by controversy, with more than half of its 90 artists signing a public letter alleging communication breakdowns, unpaid fees, and production issues, as well as the Kerala government reportedly pulling out of a deal to acquire the main venue.
This edition matters because it represents a critical test for the biennial's organizational stability and reputation after a series of scandals, including unpaid workers in 2018, sexual harassment allegations against cofounder Riyas Komu, and financial investigations in 2011. The 2025 lineup includes major international names like Marina Abramović and LaToya Ruby Frazier, signaling an effort to restore credibility and attract global attention. The biennial's ability to deliver a smooth, well-funded event will determine whether it can regain the trust of artists and the international art community, and continue its role as a vital platform for contemporary art in South Asia.