Explore, Interact, and Belong: Beyond the Exhibit

Authored by- Ar. Shrestha Chakraborty Design Exhibitions render more than mere displays; they hold up a mirror that reflects diorama of creativity and innovation. As the conversation around exhibitions continues to hum, one can't help but wonder: What draws people in? Is it just the showcasing or is there a broader prospect? The answer alludes to The People—in the communal interaction they share.

From time immemorial, humankind has sought a sense of belonging, a space for connection, and a community where they speak the same language effortlessly. We grow through the differences and find comfort in their shared similarities. Design exhibitions strike this balance perfectly. It creates a platform for people from all walks of life— to explore, interact and discover their common ground. The displays, experiential spaces, and dialogues become the mediums, and design eventually becomes a universal language of connection.

Yet, each city carries its own unique character—its distinct narrative. An exhibition in Mumbai is likely to highlight its dynamic riverfront development, where sprawling urban growth creates a visual dialogue about planning, renewal, and sustainability. In contrast, Gujarat’s exhibitions are often site-specific, deeply rooted in the region’s cultural fabric. It delves into the rich history, traditions, and local narratives, bringing forth stories that resonate with the native. The exhibitions become expressions of the city’s identity.

Pune wins over the tussle between conservation of its rich heritage while constantly keeping up with the urban dilemma, envisioning a futuristic smart-city. As the city witnesses a gradual growth, VK Group acknowledges the contribution of visionary leaders and industries that played a pivotal role in shaping the city.

As a part of the celebration of the 51st year since establishment, VK Group opens their exhibition VKollective, under the theme “Building the City We Call Home: Making Pune Better by Design.” This exhibition highlights their pioneering projects that have significantly shaped Pune city’s landscape through architecture, urban design, and policy. Building on this concept and recognising the need for a shared interdisciplinary platform, this exhibition includes panel discussions, special talks and interactive workshops, extending beyond design discourse.

VK Group is acutely attuned to the challenges and gaps in policies that shape the built environment industry, impacting both professionals and administrators. VKollective brings the change-makers together to converse and convene several panel discussions, with the aim of generating actionable insights that can be forwarded as key recommendations for policymakers’ action plans.

Open to all—whether students, architects, designers, engineers, or simply Punekars—this exhibition welcomes like-minded individuals to engage in thoughtful conversations beyond design. It opens a forum enabling complete transparency between the young minds and seasoned professionals, to connect, collaborate and more.

Dear Punekars, What’s in it for you? Come, join us, and get a chance to know the design behind the buildings you pass by every day, but may not have noticed. Spark up conversations with leaders from varied fields— connect, belong, collaborate.

Be a part of the collective—VKollective! Check out the program schedule and scan the QR code to register.

We look forward to seeing you on 21st, 22nd & 23rd February 2025! (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with NRDPL and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR PWR

Source: PTI