Varuna Kollanethu
Varuna Kaur Kollanethu is the Founder, Director, and Curator of London-based Ruup & Form, a contemporary material-led art, design, and craft gallery. With a diverse background as well as formal curatorial training, Varuna provides a multifaceted approach.
Born in Bangalore, India, Varuna acquired a master’s in journalism and spent her early career with prominent global firms, such as advertising for Ogilvy & Mathur and brand management for ING Worldwide.
Following her relocation to London in 2005, Varuna earned a second master’s in curating contemporary design and began to develop an impressive roster of curatorial posts and partnerships. This includes work with the National Museum in Singapore and purchasing pieces for high net-worth individuals and corporate spaces.
Varuna founded Ruup & Form in 2019. She believes that craft and design contribute to the economic and social wellbeing of communities, connect us to our cultural histories and are integral to building a sustainable future. Her curatorial approach draws heavily on her background, incorporating extensive research into artists and their practice as well as careful consideration of themes and forms. As a gallerist with an in-depth understanding of corporate needs and relationships, she is uniquely positioned for her work with artists and professionals alike.
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