Kolkata Centre for Creativity

The Kolkata Centre for Creativity (KCC) is conceived as a contemporary cultural hub that connects artistic practice with public life. Guided by the vision of building a culture that responds to both global and local concerns, KCC engages communities through participation in art and creativity. Its approach integrates research, documentation, conservation, display, and public engagement as core enablers, while acting as a catalyst for capacity building and artistic development, with special focus on emerging and mid-career practitioners.

KCC was founded by R. S. Agarwal and R. S. Goenka, founders and joint chairmen of the Emami Group. United by a shared commitment to innovation and cultural stewardship, they envisioned a platform that would nurture interdisciplinary pursuits in art and culture. Their longstanding patronage of the arts led to the creation of Emami Art—one of India’s leading contemporary galleries—and subsequently to KCC as a one-of-a-kind integrated arts center. Both founders are recognized connoisseurs of music, dance, theatre, and visual arts and have been honored with the degree of D.Litt (Honoris Causa) by KIIT University.

Under the stewardship of Chairperson Richa Agarwal, KCC has evolved into a dynamic, inclusive institution. With a background in commerce and entrepreneurship and extensive experience within the Emami Group, she brings strategic clarity and cultural sensitivity to arts leadership. Her vision centers on preserving Bengal’s artistic heritage while enabling its contemporary expression. Initiatives under her leadership range from cutting-edge artistic practices to inclusive programmes such as “Art for All” and DEAI-focused efforts, including a Braille library.

KCC places strong emphasis on documenting and archiving lesser-known artists, hosting annual city-wide art and craft festivals, and organising symposiums that encourage dialogue across disciplines. Supported by an Advisory Board that includes cultural thinker K. K. Chakravarty and architect Pinakin Patel, the center offers a diverse and accessible program for varied audiences.

Today, the Kolkata Centre for Creativity stands as a civic cultural space—one that brings together artists, institutions, and the public and positions art as a vital force in shaping contemporary cultural life.