Academy of Fine Arts Kolkata

Academy of Fine Arts Kolkata is one of India's oldest fine arts societies, located at 2 Cathedral Road in the Maidan area of Kolkata, West Bengal, India. Established in 1933 by Lady Ranu Mukherjee, the academy initially operated within the Indian Museum before moving to its current premises on Cathedral Road in the 1950s. The academy features multiple galleries hosting exhibitions of painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media, and conducts workshops, seminars, and art competitions to promote artistic learning and community engagement, making it a significant cultural institution in Kolkata and a hub for art enthusiasts and artists.

History & Background

The Academy of Fine Arts was established in 1933 by Lady Ranu Mukherjee, a prominent patron of the arts in Kolkata. Initially located within the Indian Museum, the academy served as a platform for promoting fine arts and providing a space for artists to showcase their work. In the 1950s, thanks to the efforts of Lady Ranu Mukherjee and support from leaders like Bidhan Chandra Roy and Jawaharlal Nehru, the academy moved to its current premises on Cathedral Road in the Maidan area. Over the decades, the academy has played a crucial role in nurturing artistic talent, promoting cultural exchange, and preserving the rich artistic heritage of Bengal. The academy has been instrumental in supporting the Bengal School of art and has hosted numerous exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events, contributing significantly to Kolkata's reputation as a cultural capital of India. Today, it continues to serve as a vital institution for the promotion and appreciation of fine arts in the region.

Key Exhibits & Collections

• Bengal School Artworks: Notable collections include works from the Bengal School, such as "Saat Bhai Champa" by Gaganendranath Tagore and "Shiva with Ganesh" by Jamini Roy

• Multiple Galleries: The academy features multiple galleries hosting rotating exhibitions of painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media

• Contemporary Art: Regular exhibitions showcasing contemporary Indian and international artists

• Historical Collections: Works representing various periods and styles of Indian art, particularly focusing on Bengali art traditions

• Photography Exhibitions: Regular displays of photographic works by established and emerging photographers

• Sculpture Displays: Exhibitions featuring sculptures in various mediums and styles

Activities & Highlights

• Viewing rotating exhibitions of paintings, sculptures, and photography

• Attending art workshops and educational programs

• Participating in seminars and discussions on art and culture

• Exploring collections from the Bengal School of art

• Viewing works by renowned artists including Gaganendranath Tagore and Jamini Roy

• Attending art competitions and cultural events

• Learning about various art forms and techniques through exhibitions and programs

• Engaging with the local art community and artists

Visiting Guidelines

• Visiting Hours: Monday to Saturday: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Sunday: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM

• Entry Fee: Check current rates before visiting

• Exhibition Schedule: Check the academy's website or contact them directly for current exhibition schedules

• Workshops and Events: Information about workshops, seminars, and special events available on the academy's website

• Photography: Check photography policies for exhibitions

• Best Time to Visit: During visiting hours, preferably when special exhibitions or events are scheduled

Location & Connectivity

• Location: 2 Cathedral Road, Maidan, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071, India

• Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata – approx. 19 km

• Major Railway Stations:

  • Sealdah Railway Station – approx. 4 km

  • Howrah Railway Station – approx. 6 km

  • Kolkata Railway Station – approx. 5 km

• Metro Station: Park Street Metro Station or Maidan Metro Station – accessible via connecting transport

The academy is strategically located on Cathedral Road in the Maidan area, one of Kolkata's prominent cultural and recreational zones, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city and well-connected to major transportation hubs.

Communication & Transport Modes

Academy of Fine Arts Kolkata is well connected by road, metro, and rail. The academy is located on Cathedral Road in the Maidan area, which provides excellent connectivity to Kolkata city center and surrounding areas. The area is served by metro stations including Park Street Metro Station and Maidan Metro Station, offering convenient access via the Kolkata Metro network. Public bus services operated by the West Bengal Transport Corporation and other operators provide regular connectivity to the area. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services operate regularly in the area, offering convenient access for visitors. The academy is easily accessible from major railway stations including Sealdah, Howrah, and Kolkata stations, and the international airport, making it convenient for both local visitors and tourists. The academy's location in the Maidan area, near other cultural institutions and landmarks, makes it easily accessible and a popular destination for art enthusiasts and cultural tourists exploring Kolkata's vibrant art scene.