Overview.

The Bay Island Driftwood Museum in Kumarakom, Kerala, India, is a truly remarkable and unique destination that showcases the extraordinary talent of local artist Raji Punnoose. This museum, nestled in the serene town of Kumarakom, captivates visitors with its extensive collection of driftwood sculptures that have been meticulously crafted into stunning works of art.

Spread over two floors, the museum is housed in a traditional Kerala-style building that seamlessly blends with the surrounding natural beauty. As visitors step inside, they are instantly greeted by a sense of tranquility and calmness that pervades the atmosphere. Soft music plays gently in the background, creating a soothing ambiance that complements the museum's artistic offerings.

The main attraction of the Bay Island Driftwood Museum is its vast collection of more than 150 exhibits, all crafted by the talented hands of Raji Punnoose. The sculptures are made from driftwood that has been collected from the Bay Islands, each piece imbued with its unique story and history. Raji Punnoose masterfully utilizes the natural shapes, textures, and forms of the driftwood to breathe life into his creations.

The exhibits in the museum encompass a diverse range of subjects, featuring sculptures of animals, birds, fish, and human figures. Each sculpture is a testament to the artist's skill and imagination, meticulously carved and assembled to bring out the inherent beauty of the driftwood. The sculptures not only display remarkable craftsmanship but also evoke a sense of awe and wonder, as visitors witness the transformation of weathered and discarded wood into mesmerizing works of art.

As visitors embark on a guided tour of the museum, they are treated to a deeper understanding of the artistry and process behind these remarkable sculptures. The knowledgeable guides provide insights into the different types of driftwood used, highlighting the unique characteristics of each piece. They explain how the artist carefully selects and manipulates the driftwood to create intricate details, ensuring that no two sculptures are alike.

The lighting within the museum is intentionally dim, allowing the sculptures to become the focal point and enhancing the overall ambiance. Soft, warm lights cast gentle shadows, accentuating the textures and contours of the driftwood. This thoughtful lighting design adds an ethereal quality to the museum, transforming it into a realm of enchantment where visitors can fully appreciate the artistic beauty of the sculptures.

Throughout the museum, visitors are encouraged to pause and contemplate the profound messages conveyed through the driftwood sculptures. The juxtaposition of nature and art invites reflection on the fragility of life, the impermanence of existence, and the interconnectedness of all living beings. Each sculpture tells a story, inviting visitors to delve deeper into their own thoughts and emotions, fostering a sense of introspection and contemplation.

After immersing themselves in the captivating world of driftwood art, visitors can browse the small souvenir shop within the museum. Here, they have the opportunity to take a piece of this extraordinary artistry home with them. The shop offers miniature versions of the sculptures, allowing visitors to cherish a tangible reminder of their experience at the Bay Island Driftwood Museum.

The Bay Island Driftwood Museum stands not only as a testament to Raji Punnoose's artistic prowess but also as a celebration of the beauty and harmony found in nature. It invites visitors to embark on a journey of discovery, where the ordinary is transformed into the extraordinary, and driftwood becomes a medium for storytelling and artistic expression.

In this tranquil haven, surrounded by the rich cultural heritage of Kerala and the serene beauty of Kumarakom, visitors are transported into a world where art and nature intertwine, leaving an indelible impression on their minds and hearts. The Bay Island Driftwood Museum is a testament to the power of creativity, the wonders of the natural world, and the profound ability of art to inspire, provoke thought, and touch the soul.

11:00AM - 5:00PM (Except Monday)