19:00, Thursday
Varuna Kaur Kollanethu : In conversation with Contemporary Art Academy
Join us for a conversation with Varuna Kaur Kollanethu, the founder and director of Ruup & Form, joined by Contemporary Art Academy discussing the interjection of art, craft, and design, embracing new voices, styles, and ideas enriching the cultural landscapes and the progression of artistic expression, followed by a Q&A.
About Varuna Kaur Kollanethu
Varuna Kaur Kollanethu is the Founder, Director, and Curator of London-based contemporary gallery, Ruup & Form. With a diverse background as well as formal curatorial training, Varuna provides a multifaceted approach.
Born in India, Varuna acquired a master’s in journalism and spent her early career with prominent global firms, such as advertising for Ogilvy & Mathur and brand management for ING Worldwide. These experiences honed her skills in communication and branding and also instilled a deep understanding of the intersection between art and commerce.
Following her relocation to London in 2005, she pursued a second master's degree in curating contemporary design allowing her to blend her passion for art with her professional expertise, ultimately leading to a series of impressive curatorial positions and partnerships. Her work includes collaborations with prestigious institutions such as the National Museum in Singapore, where she has contributed to the curation of significant exhibitions and the acquisition of artworks for high-net-worth individuals and corporate collections.
Varuna founded Ruup & Form in 2019. She believes that craft and design contribute to the economic and social wellbeing of communities, connect us to our cultural histories and are integral to building a sustainable future. Her curatorial approach draws heavily on her background, incorporating extensive research into artists and their practice as well as careful consideration of themes and forms. As a gallerist with an in-depth understanding of corporate needs and relationships, she is uniquely positioned for her work with artists and professionals alike.
About Contemporary Art Academy
Contemporary Art Academy, founded in London in 2022 by Zavier Ellis and Mathew Gibson, is an innovative online platform dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality art education to artists worldwide, inviting leading artists, curators, art critics, gallerists and collectors to discuss their life in art, followed by a Q&A.
Drawing from the founders' extensive experience in gallery management, curation, art collecting, and education, its core mission is to democratize premium art education by offering affordable, content-rich courses that foster a supportive international community of artists. Through these programs, Contemporary Art Academy aims to help artists expand their networks, achieve creative breakthroughs, and build confidence in their practice. The academy's ethos of generosity and inclusivity creates a nurturing environment where artists can thrive, learn, and connect with peers and professionals across the global art world.