The first memorial in Asia to photography pioneer Joseph Nicéphore Niépce is nearing completion in Mavelikara, Kerala, India, in time for the bicentennial of the earliest surviving photograph from c.1826-27. The memorial in Mavelikara seeks to honour Niépce’s scientific curiosity, creativity and contribution to visual culture. It is intended not only as a commemorative monument, but a centre for learning, research and public engagement with the history of photography.
The project includes plans to present the story of Niépce, the development of early photographic processes, the historical importance of the first permanent photographic images, and the evolution of photography from its experimental beginnings to its contemporary forms.
The project is under the auspieces of the Joseph Nicéphore Niépce Foundation, set up by Saji Ennakkad (above, left), an artist from Mavelikara, and others. The memorial is being built at a cost of R50 lakh (around £40,000) and will recreate part of Niépce's residence at Le Gras. A bronze bust has been installed in front of the buidling. The site will include a gallery, museum, workshop spaces and performance stage.
The memorial is being developed in connection with the worldwide celebrations of the 200th anniversary of photography. The organisers hope that its inauguration will become a meaningful cultural moment linking France, the French birthplace of photography, with India and the wider Asian photographic community.
The initiative also aims to encourage collaboration with French cultural institutions, museums, photographic historians, educational organisations and international photographic heritage networks. Through exhibitions, lectures, educational programmes and publications, the Foundation hopes to introduce new generations to the history and significance of Joseph Nicéphore Niépce’s contribution, under the banner From Le Gras to Mavelikara — two places, one photographic heritage.
