Kochi Designer Revives Centuries-Old Latin Christian Theatre Tradition at Biennale Pop-Up

Kochi, February 19, 2026: A contemporary design showcase rooted in Kerala’s Latin Christian heritage has emerged as a cultural highlight alongside the Kochi Muziris Biennale, as Kochi-based designer Diya John reinterprets a 500-year-old theatre tradition through fashion, installation art and craft.

Presented by Salt Studio, the pop-up space located in Fort Kochi near Pepper House draws inspiration from a performance form deeply embedded in the cultural life of coastal Latin Christian communities. The exhibition blends historical motifs with contemporary aesthetics, transforming a traditional art heritage into a modern visual narrative.

The interior installation centres on a dramatic representation of a “Coastal King,” a towering figure whose flowing cape and ornate detailing echo theatrical grandeur. Through bold colour palettes and sculptural silhouettes, the display captures the visual language of the centuries-old performance tradition while introducing it to wider audiences beyond Kerala.

Though widely referenced, the theatrical form remains unfamiliar to many, even within Kochi. This gap in lived cultural experience prompted John to undertake extensive field research. She travelled to Chellanam to interact directly with performers, documenting their histories, performance practices and community-driven efforts to sustain the art form.

A key collaborator in her research was Britto Vincent, a noted authority and award recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi, who also designs traditional costumes. Their engagement informed John’s reinterpretation of theatrical costume elements into wearable contemporary garments.

Textile production formed a central component of the project. Specially woven fabrics were commissioned from Chendamangalam, while cotton was sourced from weaving centres in Kannur. The resulting apparel line — including tunics, dresses, shirts and trousers — reflects the performance tradition’s vivid colour schemes and structured forms.

The pop-up also integrates visual art and sculpture inspired by the theatrical heritage. Works include expressive paintings by Vikalp Durga Mishra and clay sculptures by UK-based artist Helna Merin Joseph created in collaboration with VJ Lalichan. The central installation was developed with sculptor June Nazara using repurposed materials, while the ceremonial crown was crafted by George Joseph, known for designing crowns for performers.

Sustainability remains a defining feature of the showcase. Interactive lighting by Anuvad Innovation Studio incorporates bird motifs that emit corresponding calls when touched, blending sensory engagement with design innovation.

Alongside Salt Studio’s apparel collection, the exhibition features curated products from design labels including Innochi, Sirohi, World of Crow, Jaipur Rugs, Kaaro and Taarika John.

By bridging historical performance traditions with contemporary design, the exhibition offers a renewed cultural conversation — one that situates a community’s living heritage within global art discourse.

Courtesy: The Hindu