Media Release

Mangaluru, Jan 3: S Cube Art Gallery successfully concluded its prestigious assignment from Airports Authority of India (AAI) to beautify Mangaluru Airport with artistic works.

AAI had invited tenders for various jobs to be executed in the airport premises. S Cube Art Gallery had made a competitive bid which was subsequently followed up by a presentation before a selection panel and award of contract. S Cube Art Gallery bagged the contract for six works in two sectors out of a total of four sectors for which the tender had been called.

The themes presented by S Cube Art Gallery showcase Tulu culture and heritage of the people of coastal Karnataka. The six themes selected are:

1. ‘Human Hand Flying Paper Plane’ – Fibreglass and steel sculpture work installed in the circle in the outer precincts of the airport. This is a larger than life sculpture signifying the dreams and aspirations of the air travellers. Artist: Harish Kodialbail, Mangaluru

2. ‘Kambala’ – Fibreglass sculpture installed at the exit area of the airport. This sculpture is meant to introduce ‘Kambala’, the iconic folk sport of the region to the visitors and tourists. Artist: Harish Kodialbail, Mangaluru

3. ‘Fisherman with Boat’ - Fibreglass and steel sculpture installed at the entrance to departures lounge of the airport. It symbolizes the fishing culture of the coastal region depicting the soaring aspirations, life of courage and adventure as well as the daily struggles of the fisherfolk. Artist: Harish Kodialbail, Mangaluru

4. ‘Tiger Dance’ - Fibreglass and steel sculpture installed at the arrivals lounge of the airport. This work depicts the world-famous ‘Mangalore Pilivesha’ showing tiger dancers in various typical postures to the visiting tourists. Artist: Harish Kodialbail, Mangaluru

5. ‘Folk Art Forms’ – Six individual terracotta sculptures with Tulunadu cultural themes installed alongside the domestic and international corridors of the airport. Artist: Venki Palimaru, Udupi

6. ‘Jain Miniature Paintings’ – Jain miniature paintings (18x6 feet) – Two works of acrylic on canvas displayed on the wall on either side of the exit area. The work was conceived after referring to authentic traditional Jain paintings in Moodbidri Jain Math and Shravanabelagola Math. Artist: Reshma S. Shetty, Mangaluru

The total value of the contract was Rs 56 lac. The work was completed in a period of six months and concluded in July 2019. S Cube Art Gallery is grateful to the Airports Authority of India for giving allowing them to participate in this project and showcase the artistic talents of the region.