On Bengaluru’s busy Kasturba Road, is a beautifully designed, modern structure that has become a landmark for arts and culture in the city. The Museum of Art and Photography (MAP) has redefined the traditional museum experience in India through the way it exhibits its collections, by creating interactive digital exhibits and by paying attention to inclusivity. It offers a home for a vast collection of Indian art, exhibitions, and public programs.
A Brief History
The museum was created by philanthropist and art collector Abhishek Poddar. Poddar’s passion for Indian art saw him amass one of the country’s most significant private collections, some of which, alongside works brought in from the broader art world has turned into a modern, accessible museum that both houses these works and also creates a space for dialogue and education around Indian art.
The museum’s mission is to democratise art, challenging the traditional museum model. MAP also employs a unique digital approach, allowing the museum to create immersive experiences around its art collection as well as reach a wider audience
Sketching at MAP
The collection at MAP is diverse, with over 60,000 works spanning from the 10th century to the present day. Unlike many museums that organize by strict chronology, MAP’s exhibitions are thematic, drawing connections between historical objects and contemporary ideas.
MAP is, as you can expect, very friendly to people who wish to draw at the museum. You can sketch from the vast collection of sculpture, paintings, installations and photographs on show. You may even want to sketch the murals on the building itself, or the sculpture in the courtyard. The museum’s ever-changing temporary exhibitions also offer new subjects, ranging from modern art to popular culture and design.
Please note that you may not carry bags into the galleries. There are lockers in the basement where you may leave your bag. Also carry a small sketchbook and basic sketching media like pencils or pens. Wet media and elaborate painting setups are obviously not allowed.
MAP: Address and Map
Address: 22, Kasturba Road, Shanthala Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001, India
The museum is conveniently located in the city center, right across from the Government Museum and close to Cubbon Park. It’s easily accessible via public transport, with the Cubbon Park, MG Road, and Vidhana Soudha metro stations all within walking distance.