Kochi, Dec 3 (IANS): Athletics legend P.T. Usha Wednesday was chosen as the goodwill ambassador of the second edition of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale (KMB), that will begin here Dec 12.

Indian artist and sculptor Riyas Komu, co-founder of KMB, said that the "sprinting champion has been a modern era pioneer in convincing her country about the essence and elementary significance of speed and time".

"In that context, there is nobody better suited to spread the message and philosophy of the biennale than her," he said in a statement.

The theme of the 108-day extravaganza this year interconnects time and space within the planetary movement. On this topic, around 94 artists from 30 countries will present their observations in varied art forms.

The 50-year-old Usha said she was honoured to be a part of the artists' family.

Komu added that Usha, who is associated with Indian athletics since 1979, has been the pride of her native Kerala and the entire nation.

"It is only appropriate that an exemplary athlete espoused the country's first biennale which is one of the biggest showpiece events in contemporary global art," he said.