Established in 1962, it is an academy for fine arts that was set up to promote art and artistic heritage. The aim of the academy is to encourage culture, painting, plastic and visual arts. It is an autonomous institute of culture functioning under the State Department of Culture. The structure of the academy, at Thrissur, is an architectural marvel. Tourists can also check out works by noted painters like K C S Panikker and the late T K Padmini. The hub of cultural and art discussions and events in Kerala, the academy provides a unique platform where master artists can interact with upcoming artists. The academy also plays a key role in developing visual arts like sculptures, photography, ceramics, graphics and paintings.