Art enthusiasts, assemble. Australia’s biggest contemporary art event is back at Carriageworks in Redfern from September 3-6. Sydney Contemporary has returned with a Champagne-fuelled bang, featuring stunning works by more than 500 artists from 33 countries, represented by 100 galleries. The ambitious program is made up of large-scale installations, impressive works, photographs, performances and talks. And for the first time ever, Sydney Contemporary has spilled beyond the walls of Carriageworks, with public artworks popping up across the city.
Fair director Zoe Paulsen says this year’s massive 10th edition is filled with “celebration and discovery, the familiar and the unexpected.”
While the fair itself will take over Carriageworks as usual, this year's highlights extend to two beautiful waterfront spots. Kamilaroi artist Reko Rennie has a striking new installation at Sydney Fish Market, while Joan Ross's bold video work will transform Pier Pavilion at Barangaroo – inviting passing Sydneysiders to engage with contemporary art outside the traditional gallery setting.
Inside Carriageworks, expect everything from monumental sculptures and immersive textile installations to kinetic works and live performances. Melbourne duo The Huxleys will debut a joyous new performance piece, and Mike Hewson (the visionary behind AGNSW's universally loved exhibition The Key's Under The Mat) will transform the Carriageworks café with his signature immersive approach. Other headline names exhibiting this year include acclaimed South African artist William Kentridge, Australian sculptor Alex Seton and Torres Strait artists Grace Lillian Lee, Dr Ken Thaiday Snr and Allan George Lee – though the real joy of Sydney Contemporary is discovering your new favourite artist from one of the 100+ galleries exhibiting.
To mark its tenth anniversary, Sydney Contemporary will also unveil a special exhibition in the Collectors Lounge, showcasing works acquired across the fair's decade-long history and offering a rare peek inside some of Australia's most hefty private art collections.
Tickets start at $40 per adult, or if you and your art-loving partner or bestie are early-risers you can score two tickets for $50 (for entry before 12pm). Check out the full program and book tickets over here.
Plus, if you're keen to come after dark, Sydney Contemporary is open on Thursday and Friday night for one big, groovy art party.
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