'Short lived' Artist Residency , Siliguri

The BIG I ART FOUNDATION SILIGURI for Contemporary Arts was established in 2017 by eminent artist Dipayaan Ghhosh in the heart of the city of Siliguri, West Bengal . This registered non profit organisation has the vision to make Siliguri an acknowledged centre of excellence and innovation in contemporary art.The northern part of West Bengal Siliguri is rich in its multiple identities- may it be rural, urban, secular or religious and full of cultural diversity demographic landscape.Originally, Siliguri is a commercial city, but due to its geographical location, it is possible to see the coexistence of people with the diversity of nature. From the snow-capped Himalayan Kanchenjunga (the world's third highest mountain peak) to the forested Doors and mountain springs, numerous rivers surround the city.

The foundation is committed to engage, nurture and promote Siliguri art culture and provide a platform to reflect and augment this diversity through a synthesis of contemporary and traditional art forms and mediums. Foundation positions itself as a dynamic, artistic and intellectual platform for experimentation and creativity. Its objectives include to support emerging artists, especially those from marginal areas, and actively facilitate an informal network of contemporary artists within the region and abroad. It aims to explore how art can be used as a tool for social change. It promotes discussions and art appreciation of contemporary visual practices. For the last 5 years, it has been developing new and active audiences and a space for critical debate through its work.

The 'Short-lived Artist Residency' Program that started in December, 2021 invites artists, curators, writers and art enthusiasts to interact, experiment and work with the local community and materials. It encourages them to move out of the comfort of defined spaces and work in new circumstances. For this, the residency provides an opportunity to take advantage of traditional artistic techniques and material. The resident is invited to conduct workshops, participate in local community activities, and visit several heritage sites in the region to stimulate their creativity during her/his time there.