If you are looking for a unique and enriching experience, you should not miss David Hall Art Gallery, a heritage building with a modern twist. David Hall is one of the oldest and most charming structures in Fort Kochi, dating back to the late 17th century. It was built by the Dutch East India Company as a residence for their commander or a hospice for their soldiers. Later, it was bought by a Jewish family and named after David Koder, one of its owners. In 2003, it was acquired and restored by CGH Earth, a group of eco-friendly hotels and resorts in Kerala. Today, David Hall is a vibrant art gallery and a cozy café that showcases the best of local culture and creativity.
Art exhibitions
David Hall Art Gallery is a must-visit destination for art lovers and enthusiasts. The gallery exhibits the works of contemporary artists from Kerala and beyond, covering various genres and mediums such as paintings, sculptures, installations, photography, and more.
The gallery also hosts solo and group shows, curated by renowned art critics and experts. Some of the notable artists who have displayed their works at David Hall include Riyas Komu, Bose Krishnamachari, NN Rimzon, Sosa Joseph, Anjali Nalapat, and many others.
The artworks at David Hall reflect the diversity and quality of the art scene in Kochi, as well as the social and cultural issues that inspire the artists. Visiting David Hall is a great way to learn about the local art scene, support emerging artists, and discover new perspectives.
Café
David Hall Café is a perfect place to relax and enjoy a delicious meal or a refreshing drink. The café is set in a rustic and cozy environment, surrounded by greenery and art. The café uses organic and fresh ingredients from local farms and markets, and offers a fusion of continental and regional cuisines. You can choose from a variety of dishes such as pizzas, salads, sandwiches, cakes, coffee, tea, juices, and more. The café also has vegan and gluten-free options for those with dietary preferences.
The café is popular among locals and tourists alike, who come here to savor the food, service, ambiance, and price. You can also read some of the testimonials or reviews from customers who have enjoyed the café at David Hall on their website or social media pages.
Events
David Hall Art Gallery is not just a place to see art, but also to experience it. The gallery hosts various events and workshops throughout the year, such as music concerts, dance performances, film screenings, talks, lectures, art classes, and more. These events are aimed at promoting and celebrating different forms of art and culture, as well as engaging with the audience and the community. You can find out more about the upcoming or past events at David Hall on their website or social media pages.
You can also register or book your tickets online or offline for the events that interest you. Attending or participating in these events is a wonderful opportunity to learn new skills, experience different forms of art, and interact with other enthusiasts.
Location
David Hall Art Gallery is located at Opp Parade Ground in Fort Kochi, Kochi. It is easily accessible by public or private transport from different points of interest in Kochi such as railway stations, bus stops, airports, hotels, etc. You can also use Google Maps or other navigation apps to find the best route to reach David Hall. The gallery is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 11 am to 7 pm. The café is open from Tuesday to Sunday from.
David Hall Art Gallery in Kochi is a heritage building with a modern twist that offers a unique and enriching experience for visitors. Whether you are interested in history, art, café, or events, you will find something that suits your taste and preference at David Hall.
Places to stay nearby
If you are looking for a comfortable and luxurious stay near David Hall Art Gallery in Kochi, you have plenty of options to choose from. You can find some of the best 5-star hotels and resorts near David Hall that offer world-class amenities and services, such as Le Meridien Kochi, Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Ramada Resort by Wyndham Kochi, and Aquatic Island by Poppys. These properties are located within a short distance from David Hall and other attractions in Fort Kochi, and offer stunning views of the backwaters, the harbor, or the city. You can also enjoy their facilities such as swimming pools, spas, gyms, restaurants, bars, and more.
Alternatively, you can opt for some of the charming heritage hotels near David Hall that showcase the colonial architecture and history of Fort Kochi, such as Old Harbour Hotel, Tea Bungalow, and The Old Courtyard Hotel.
These hotels are also 5-star rated and offer cozy and elegant rooms, along with personalized and attentive service. You can also experience their cultural and culinary delights, such as traditional Kerala cuisine, Ayurvedic treatments, folk music, and dance.
Places to visit nearby David Hall Art Gallery:
If you are interested in exploring more of the culture and history of Kochi, you will be happy to know that there are many places to visit nearby David Hall Art Gallery. Some of them are:
Dutch Palace: A historical palace built by the Portuguese and renovated by the Dutch, featuring murals, portraits, weapons, and artifacts.
Jewish Synagogue: The oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth, featuring a clock tower, hand-painted tiles, chandeliers, and Torah scrolls.
St. Francis Church: The oldest European church in India, where Vasco da Gama was buried before his remains were moved to Portugal.
Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica: A Gothic-style Roman Catholic church, featuring stained glass windows, paintings, frescoes, and altars.
Chinese fishing nets: A traditional fishing method using large nets suspended from bamboo poles, offering a scenic view of the harbor and the sunset.
Spice markets: A place to buy and smell various spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, pepper, ginger, turmeric, and more.
Street art: A collection of colorful and creative murals and graffiti on the walls of Fort Kochi, depicting the culture and history of the place.
Jew Town: A quaint and charming area where the Jewish community lives and works, featuring antique shops, cafés, art galleries, and a museum.
Princess Street: A lively and vibrant street with colonial-style buildings, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, and hotels.
Kerala Folklore Theater and Museum: A cultural center that showcases the folk arts and crafts of Kerala, featuring performances, exhibitions, workshops, and a library.
So don’t wait any longer and plan your visit to David Hall Art Gallery in Kochi today! You will not regret it!
