Keerthana Kunnath's 'Not What You Saw' Brings Kerala's Women Bodybuilders to Foam Amsterdam

Keerthana Kunnath is showcasing her debut museum exhibition, "Not What You Saw," at Foam in Amsterdam through November 27, 2026. This series highlights women bodybuilders from Kerala, India, set against picturesque rural backdrops like lush landscapes, coastal areas, and vibrant walls under the bright south Indian sun. Born in Calicut, Kunnath studied fashion design in New Delhi and fashion photography in London. Her journey began with research on Kalari, an ancient Kerala martial art, and led her to connect with Arathy Krishna, a bodybuilder and former Miss Kerala Fitness champion. What started as a single photoshoot transformed into a heartfelt community project, capturing the women's lives and struggles, including societal pressures about their appearance. With stylist Elton John's help, traditional attire and vintage film aesthetics were woven in to challenge stereotypes. The new works at Foam also depict their lives beyond bodybuilding, showcasing personal milestones. The series has received a strong response, particularly from women in Kochi, while some men have expressed negative reactions, highlighting ongoing discussions about women's identities.