Museo Camera is a space dedicated to the art of photography.From displaying an array of photographic equipment that goes back centuries to hosting art exhibits and discussions with leading artists, Museo Camera has quickly become the ‘it-spot’ for all art and photography connoisseurs.
Founded by photographer, historian, and archivist Aditya Arya, initially as a personal collection of his photographic equipment in his basement in 2009, Museo Camera has become a go-to for all things art. The museum displays an archive of photographs, over 2500 cameras, and photographic ephemera dating back to the 1850s. Besides the museum collection, Museo Camera houses studio spaces, exhibition galleries showcasing contemporary artists, a reference library, a fully functional darkroom and a café on the premises. They also host various art exhibits and workshops that rotate on a day-to-day or weekly basis. The museum even holds the title of being the largest not-for-profit, crowd-funded Centre for Photographic Arts in Southeast Asia.
In its upcoming list of events and showcases, Museo Camera offers an array of artistic experiences and exhibits lined up for its visitors.
Reflections and Mirrors: Cellphone Photography Exhibition
This showcase is a part of their ‘Emotions in Motion’ exhibition- a showcase born from the passionate lenses of mobile photographers. This collection is the culmination of a Black and White photography competition hosted by the Mobile Photography community, CellNama. The theme, ‘Reflections and Mirrors,’ resonates with the non-static image, which draws the viewer deeper into its realm. It’s a play on words, as reflections and mirrors add layers to images, toying with ideas of depth, perspective and reality. At the same time, the theme also refers to reflecting on ourselves, elements of the world that inspire us, and perhaps even life. Therefore, it expresses both a metaphorical and literal meaning. The exhibition is open to public viewing until the 31st of January.
Open Mic Evening
The Museo Camera’s diversity stems from its inclusion of all things art! This Open Mic evening opens the stage to poets to let their hearts out, and share stories in their own poetic ways. Celebration of art does not stay limited to form, which is what stands to invite crowds from all spheres. The Open Mic evening is happening on the 21st of January and is open to anyone willing to share their spoken word.
Bollywood Odyssey: A Musical Book Discussion
Bollywood Odyssey, authored by Ajay Mankotia, is a book written for connoisseurs of music and those of Bollywood. It answers some of the most intriguing and commonly asked questions about the music industry in Bollywood. It indulges in well-detailed discussions about the history of Indian music and features various honourable personalities in the field. This book discussion, with the author alongside Divya Ohri, delves into the nuances of Mankotia’s work, Bollywood Odyssey: The Singing Taxman’s Journey into Film Music, and is set to take place on the 20th of January.
The Great Book Exchange
This event seeks not only an exchange of books but also an exchange of opinions, stories, and ideas. Happening on the 21st of January at the museum, this book exchange calls for all book lovers interested in knowing what others are reading. It follows the simple rule of thumb, ‘bring a book, and take another home,’ and is open to any and all literature lovers.
Paint & Sip
Scheduled for the 21st of January, Paint & Sip promises an evening of painting and unleashing one’s creative sides while sipping on some delicious kombucha. The air will be infused with the aroma of acrylics and the fizz of kombucha, creating an ambience that sparks everyone’s imaginations- even those who’re picking up their paint brushes for the first time.
Our personal favourite at the museum is their selection of postcards and other mementoes that one can take home!
Words Muskan Kaur
Date 16.01.24