The 'Kolkata International Art Exhibition,' shortened to 'KIAE,' was established in 2016 with approval from the 'Kolkata Artists Association' to feature a range of modern and contemporary artworks by international visual artists, as well as local Kolkata talents, through an exhibition format. The first edition took place in May 2016. Following it, the second edition, known as '2nd KIAE 2024,' occurred in March. As indicated by its title, the third edition, '3rd KIAE 2025,' was conducted in two separate phases during February and March of 2025.

     Kolkata is celebrated as India’s artistic and cultural hub, home to many notable intellectuals. The city has nurtured some of the most esteemed thinkers, creators, filmmakers, and writers like Rabindranath Tagore, Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay, Manik Bandopadhyay, Sunil Gangopadhyay, and Sirshendu Mukhopadhyay, among others. Satyajit Ray, an iconic Indian filmmaker, screenwriter, author, lyricist, magazine editor, illustrator, calligrapher, and composer, is regarded as one of the cinema's most significant and influential directors. He is famously associated with the city through the quote, 'What Bengal thinks today, India thinks tomorrow,' which showcases Kolkata's status as the cultural capital of India. Thus, 'KIAE' serves as a venue for global cultural exchanges.

     The primary aim of the '4th Kolkata International Art Exhibition 2026,' or '4th KIAE 2026', is to display art that excels in both material use and aesthetic value. This event emphasizes fostering global harmony through a contemporary art exhibition while honoring the cultural diversity of international dialogues between the East and West. The objective is to encourage ideals of understanding, tolerance, and cultural diversity that bring artists together in a shared quest for peace. Presently, cultural exchanges happen through international art exhibitions. Over 150 works will be displayed, featuring international artists alongside those from Kolkata and other Indian states.

    This year's '4th KIAE 2026' is set to occur in March and April 2026 at the respected 'Birla Academy of Art and Culture' and at the 'Academy of Fine Arts,' one of Kolkata's oldest and most prominent art galleries. The event welcomes all professional artists—both trained and self-taught—from around the globe, regardless of their education, religion, race, or gender. The '4th KIAE 2026' will highlight modern and contemporary art forms, including Paintings, Drawings, Watercolor, Graphics, Photography, and Digital Art. We warmly encourage every artist to submit their entries to participate in this grand occasion of '4th KIAE 2026'.