How Goethe Institut’s bangaloREsidency program is forging artistic ties between Germany and India

Geographically speaking, the saxophone, a single-reed woodwind instrument invented by Adolphe Sax in 19th century Belgium, and the parai, a traditional Tamil percussion instrument, are worlds apart. Julius is one of the 11 artists from Germany who are in Bengaluru as a part of the Goethe Institut’s bangaloREsidency program. “Though the artists don’t live or work together, there is a synergy among the artists, the hosts, the city, and Goethe Institut,” says Maureen, “We find that so interesting. This way, we extend German expertise to the local community.” Goethe Institut also realised the need for Indian artists to go to Germany. Very often, we see artists making long-term associations,” says Michael Heinst, the director of Goethe Institut in Bengaluru.