We stumbled upon Infusion Hangout in GK entirely by accident, propelled in by a huge ‘I heart Delhi’ signboard we spied in a window just above The Chocolate Beetle while on a dessert run. A three story hike later, we were peeking into a large, loft-like community workspace where you can score a desk for - wait for it - free. Sweet!
(Inter) Net Gains
Opened to the general public in June, Infusion Hangout is run by illustrator and comic artist Ashwin Chacko and sponsored by Fusion, a church that runs various charitable and art initiatives including a learning centre for street kids in the same building through the Impact Delhi Programme. Everything here, from the red and blue walls to the second hand distressed furniture (a combination of low cushioned couches, graffiti topped trunks and multi-coloured desks and chairs) has been procured, re-painted and assembled by a community of young artists, poets and musicians.
The space is air-conditioned, wi-fi equipped and comes with a fun playlist piped in through concealed speakers (is that Imogen Heap we hear?). There’s also a self-service counter stocked with tea, coffee and cookies on the house, with a pay as you please option for those inclined to feel guilty about free-loading.
Prose Knit Community
Come August, there are plans for Infusion to double up as a gallery and platform for upcoming talent – young artists and photographers who find themselves without a space or sponsor. In the meanwhile, they’re kicking off their events calendar with an open mic Poetry and Short Story session this Friday featuring blues band Angelo Dimari. RSVPs are preferred especially if you plan to read or perform, although walk-ins are welcome too, just so long as the content isn’t inflammatory or profane. Step up, we say!
Getting there: C 201, Third Floor, GK I, open Tuesdays-Saturdays between 10 am and 5 pm, call Ashwin Chacko on 9654242395, or visit their website here for more details, all facilities are free.
