Here’s a new way to do Art Month. Go to a talk or exhibition and on your way home, visit a sculpture or mural you haven’t seen before. Great for first dates, fun activities with mum, or just another excuse to head to a part of the city you don’t usually visit.
If you’re in:
Circular Quay
The Australian Centre for Photography and Customs House present the thought-provoking work of Atong Atem. The photographer of South Sudanese background explores questions of identity and private/public spaces.
While you’re there…take a fictional journey of The Rocks, using your smartphone. The City of Forking paths was developed for the 19th Biennale of Sydney and now remains in the City’s collection permanently.
Redfern
Art Month is probably most loved for its evening precinct nights. So, why not check out some of Redfern’s galleries and artist run spaces (107 Projects, The Bearded Tit, Verge Gallery and others), before heading to Cake Wines for a drink.
While you’re there…stroll by Reko Rennie’s vibrant tribute to Redfern’s Aboriginal life, activism and culture. The Kamilaroi/Gamilaraay/Gummaroi artist worked on the terrace mural Welcome to Redfern with a group of young artists from the area. The artists worked together to develop ideas around the theme ‘local heroes’ and Rennie offered advice on the practical aspects of painting.
Darlinghurst
How well do you know one of the best art galleries in East Sydney? Head to Chalk Horse, who will preview work for Art Central Hong Kong as well as host an open studio tour and artist talks.
While you’re there…head to Mary Place, off Bourke Street in Surry Hills. The name of this lane and the artwork in it, Lamp for Mary, serves in memory of a gay woman who was beaten and raped there. The work aims to increase safety, pay tribute to women who have experienced violence and highlights an issue still faced by the LGBTIQ community.
Potts Point
Don’t miss the exhibition Found and Made, which explores the different ways artists make their work. It features various young artists and includes a special performance piece. Of course, there’s also the East Sydney precinct night, which is your chance to check out some of the most active artist run spaces in Sydney. These include Firstdraft, Alaska Projects and own creative live work spaces on William Street.
While you’re there…and if you feel like a bit of sea breeze, head down to beautiful Beare Park. You will enjoy a view of the water, but also a sculpture and a fountain you mightn’t have noticed before. The first, The Specimen Jar, is an almost ancient-looking granite monument featuring the universal themes of life. The second is the Beare Park Canopy Fountain, representing a place which was used to fill water carts for delivery to local residents.
