Tamil art forms at Minneapolis–Saint Paul Airport

A decade of preserving Tamil art

Minnesota Tamil Sangam has truly set a remarkable example when it comes to preserving and promoting Tamil art forms. MNTS has been in the forefront of learning all traditional, authentic Tamil art forms — dance and musical instruments — for over a decade now. The main theme of the 2017 FeTNA convention hosted by MNTS was “தமிழர் கலையைப் போற்றிடுவோம்!, தமிழர் மரபை மீட்டெடுப்போம்!!”. Our motto is to sustain the indigenous Tamil art forms and musical instruments so we can pass them on to our next generations and also propagate them to US residents.

We are grateful for the ongoing support from the Minnesota State Arts Board, which has consistently awarded annual grants since 2016, even during the challenging years of the pandemic. As part of the efforts over the last 12 years, MNTS has performed at various venues — city events, Festival of Nations, and large gatherings like the Minnesota State Fair, the great Minnesota get-together.

Tamil arts were formally captured by eminent photographer Rj Kern over the last two years for Hennepin Arts. The Heart of Minneapolis downtown displayed a large 40×30-foot portrait for a year, from August 2023 to August 2024. See the Heart of Minneapolis portrait →

Now the biggest recognition of all: Minneapolis–Saint Paul Airport, Terminal 2 unveiled a 120-foot-long, 20-foot-tall display of Tamil art forms on August 29, 2024. This is the first of its kind and has never happened before anywhere in the world — not even in Indian airports — and it will remain on view for a minimum of one year.

Why it matters

The initiative taken by the Minnesota Tamil Sangam to display traditional Tamil art forms in the MSP Terminal 2 airport is truly exclusive and commendable. By showcasing these unique and vibrant Tamil art forms, we are not only celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Tamil community but also providing travelers with a wonderful opportunity to experience and appreciate a different culture.

This display serves as a visual feast for the eyes and a gateway to understanding the beauty and diversity of Tamil arts, heritage, and culture. It is a great way to promote cultural exchange, foster appreciation for art, and create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all visitors.

With gratitude

We extend our deepest gratitude to the esteemed board members whose unwavering dedication, tireless efforts, and boundless passion have been instrumental in bringing to fruition the showcase of traditional Tamil art forms at the airport. Our heartfelt thanks also go out to the enthusiastic Tamil arts participants who persistently engage in learning and practicing these rich cultural expressions.

Special thanks to Sachi for exploring and opening these avenues by volunteering for MSP Arts over many years, during each weekend.

We express our profound appreciation and thanks to the Minnesota State Arts Board, Hennepin Arts, MSP Airport Foundation, and the great state of Minnesota for their invaluable support and collaboration.