Whether you're an aficionado of art and culture or simply appreciate their beauty, these seven must-visit spots in Chennai, from iconic galleries to living museums, promise an enriching experience.
Chennai has some of the best art galleries and museums. (Supplied)
Chennai has consistently been a city where art and culture flourish, seamlessly integrating into the lives of its residents.
For enthusiasts eager to immerse themselves in a day of art appreciation, here’s a detailed guide to some of the finest art galleries and museums in Chennai.
Sarala’s Art Centre, established in 1965, is the oldest art gallery in South India. Renamed Artworld in 1997, the gallery deals with established artists as well as young, upcoming artists.
Sarala’s Art Centre was established in 1965. (Supplied)
Besides their regular shows, they also have a collection of artworks for sale from some of the most brilliant artists in India and abroad.
Location: 1/12, Ganesh Puram 3rd Street, off Cenotaph Road
Timings: 10.30 am – 6.30 pm (closed on Sundays)
An art pilgrimage to Chennai would never be complete without a visit to India’s first self-supporting artists’ village. Located on 10 acres of land, the village houses an art gallery, museum, and amphitheatre.
Cholamandal Artists Village is India’s first self-supporting artists’ village. (Supplied)
Renowned artist KCS Paniker established the commune in 1966 as a space for artists to collaborate, outside the commercial gallery system.
Highly recommend visiting the gallery, which showcases artworks by some of the most significant artists who have shaped the history of Indian art.
Location: Cholamandal Artists Village, Injambakkam.
Timings: 10 am – 5 pm
Founded in 1983, Apparao Galleries is one of the leading galleries in South India, representing contemporary art. The gallery not only has several solo and group exhibitions throughout the year but also conducts workshops and lectures regularly.
Apparao Galleries was started by Sharan Apparao. (Supplied)
Started by Sharan Apparao, the gallery showcases some of the finest artworks from India and other countries.
Location: No.7, Wallace Gardens, 3rd Street, Nungambakkam
Timings: 3 pm – 6.30 pm (Closed on Sunday and Monday)
Since its establishment in 2012, Gallery Veda has been one of the most happening places for art in Chennai. Beginning with their first exhibition, which was an all-women show, the gallery has hosted important shows throughout the past decade of its existence.
Gallery Veda’s first exhibition was an all-women show. (Supplied)
They conduct workshops with a vision to take art to the general public.
Location: 4/22, Rutland Gate, 5th St, Nungambakkam
Timings: 11 am – 7 pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
Dakshinachitra, situated on the East Coast Road in Chennai, is a living museum of art, architecture, and crafts. Here, 18 historical houses built in regional style, were bought and reconstructed. All of them host exhibitions that are contextual.
Dakshinachitra. (Supplied)
The place also has a dedicated gallery space called Varijah Gallery, where art exhibitions happen regularly.
Location: Dakshinachitra Heritage Museum, East Coast Road, Muthukadu
Timings: 10 am – 6 pm (Closed on Tuesdays).
Entry fee is applicable.
Founded in 2012, Art Houz is located centrally in Chennai and ranks among one of the reputed galleries in South India. The gallery has played host to several solo and group exhibitions and continues to encourage upcoming talent. The gallery also has a presence in Bengaluru.
Art Houz also has a presence in Bengaluru. (Supplied)
Location: No 123, The Brothers of Holy Cross, Sterling Rd, Nungambakkam
Timings: 11 am – 7 pm (Closed on Sunday)
The Government Museum started in 1851, is the second oldest museum in India.
The museum has a large collection of antiquities and archaeological artefacts. Within its premises is located the National Art Gallery which houses many rare European and Asian paintings, bronze sculptures as well as Raja Ravi Varma’s paintings.
For all those interested in the history of art and culture, a visit to this museum is a must.
Location: Pantheon Road, Egmore
Timings: 9.30 am – 5 pm (Closed on Fridays and national holidays, and an entry fee is applicable)
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