Category: ARTS & CULTURE

Sydney is getting a new gallery space in Surry Hills

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Ames Yavuz will open a second Australian gallery space at 114 Commonwealth Street, Surry Hills to the public this month! Located near the first Sydney gallery on Reservoir Street, this marks a significant milestone for Ames Yavuz, amplifying its programming in Australia across two dynamic sites. Founded as Yavuz Gallery in Singapore in 2010 by Can Yavuz, the gallery expanded to Sydney in 2019, becoming the first commercial art gallery from Asia to establish a permanent space in Australia. This year, Yavuz Gallery was renamed Ames Yavuz, incorporating the surnames of Can Yavuz and Glen Ames to reflect their Asia-Pacific and European heritage, and their relationship both in life and business. Spanning an area of 300 square metres and featuring 3.5 metre-high ceilings, the new location has a rich heritage, formerly a petrol station and part of the bustling hub of the rag trade and textiles industry in Surry Hills. The raw interior of this historic warehouse provides a unique exhibition space for Ames Yavuz. The gallery’s inaugural presentation, MEMORY/MYTH features contemporary and historic films and video installations by 26 internationally renowned artists from across the world, including 20 works never-before-seen in Australia. Curated by London-based Director of Ames Yavuz, Ananya Mukhopadhyay, the program includes works by Thania Petersen (South Africa), Stanislava Pinchuk (Ukraine), Richard Bell (Kamilaroi, Kooma, Jiman and Gurang Gurang, Australia), Brook Andrew (Wiradjuri, Ngunnawal/Australia) and Joy Gregory (UK). The screening program explores experiences of indigeneity, diaspora and the intersecting global legacies of colonialism, and emphasises Ames Yavuz’s commitment to showcasing international artists… Read More

Take One Picture: children inspired by Henri Rousseau’s Surprised!

Surprised 1891 Henri Rousseau 1844 – 1910 oil on canvas

This summer, the National Gallery will showcase children’s artworks in the annual Take One Picture exhibition, with pupils across the country having taken inspiration from Rousseau’s Surprised! For nearly thirty years, the Gallery has been inviting primary school children nationwide to focus on one painting from the collection and respond creatively, following their own questions and ideas, and this year’s program has been the biggest yet: 300 schools took part – more than a 60% increase from last year. The program aims to put art at the center of children’s learning across the curriculum, inspiring creativity, curiosity, and a lifelong connection with artists’ work. By exhibiting a selection of the projects produced, the program also provides a platform for celebrating children’s work, building pride and confidence in their achievements, and fostering a sense of ownership and belonging in the Gallery. This year’s painting, Rousseau’s Surprised!, is perennially one of the Gallery’s top 20 most popular and visited paintings. Rousseau produced the work without ever leaving his native France; the foliage is a mix of domestic house plants and tropical varieties, which he had seen at the Botanical Gardens in Paris. An amateur artist who painted as a hobby and failed to get serious recognition from his contemporaries, Rousseau is now seen as a pioneer of the “naïve art” movement. Year 4 at Langland Community School, Milton Keynes, were drawn to the tiger’s worried expression and wondered if he was in danger from poachers. The children researched the endangerment of tigers and their habitat through deforestation… Read More

Koorie Art Show 2024: call for entries!

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The Koorie Heritage Trust (KHT) is thrilled to announce the 12th annual Koorie Art Show, inviting entries from First Peoples artists (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders) residing in Victoria. Scheduled for December 2024, this prestigious event is an open-entry, non-acquisitive award exhibition, open to all First Peoples artists, designers, and craftspeople regardless of their career stage, be it emerging, mid-career, or senior. “This is a fantastic opportunity for all First Peoples to showcase their art in a central location at Fed Square in Narrm (Melbourne),” says Tom Mosby, CEO of KHT. “Significantly, we accept all artworks. All you need to do is submit an entry form by the due date for your work to be accepted. Each work will be professionally photographed and installed in our beautiful new galleries in the Birrarung Building at Fed Square. I encourage all artists to enter and join us in another exciting year for the Koorie Art Show.” The call for entries is open now and will close at midnight on Sunday, 29 September 2024. The exhibition features a diverse range of traditional and contemporary works, spanning various mediums such as digital illustrations, paintings, prints, textiles, ceramics, and more. This event underscores the cultural richness of First Peoples creativity and provides a vibrant snapshot of the current landscape in First Peoples art across Victoria. Entries will be independently judged and are eligible for numerous awards with substantial cash prizes. These include the Creative Victoria Award for Excellence in any Media ($10,000), Viva Energy 3D Award ($5,000), RMIT University 2D… Read More

Opera Australia presents a thrilling tribute to Puccini’s legacy

Puccini Tosca Opera Australia

Embark on a musical odyssey as Opera Australia honours the 100th anniversary of Giacomo Puccini’s legacy with a spectacular production of Tosca at the iconic Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House. From the 25th of June to the 16th of August 2024, immerse yourself in the timeless allure of this Italian masterpiece reimagined for modern audiences. Prepare to be captivated by the enthralling tale of Tosca, a riveting opera that weaves a tapestry of love, passion, jealousy, and betrayal over a heart-pounding 24-hour timeline. Directed by the acclaimed Edward Dick, this five-star production promises an electrifying experience, blending classical elegance with contemporary flair to create a visual and auditory feast for the senses. Step into a world where Renaissance grandeur meets avant-garde sophistication, as set designer Tom Scutt transforms the stage into a mesmerising spectacle beneath a suspended gilded dome adorned with a stunning Renaissance fresco. The performers, dressed in glamorous modern attire by BAFTA-winning costume designer Fotini Dimou, are illuminated by Lee Curran’s stadium-style lighting, creating a mesmerising visual symphony. The talented cast includes the Northern Irish soprano Giselle Allen making her OA debut in the titular role, alongside the brilliant Karah Son, captivating audiences with her rendition of Tosca’s iconic aria ‘Vissi d’arte’. Korean tenor Young Woo Kim and Armenian dramatic baritone Gevorg Hakobyan bring the characters of Cavaradossi and Scarpia to life, with award-winning local baritone Warwick Fyfe adding his exceptional talent to the mix. Guiding the orchestra with finesse and passion, acclaimed maestro Johannes Fritzsch and OA’s Head of Music Tahu… Read More

Best place to watch theatre in Athens: discover the city of Athens Lycabettus theatre

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Nestled atop the majestic Mt. Lycabettus, overlooking the enchanting city of Athens, lies a cultural gem that has captivated hearts for decades – the City of Athens Lycabettus Theatre. This summer of 2024 marks a momentous occasion as this iconic venue reopens its doors after years of anticipation, beckoning both locals and tourists to experience the magic of open-air performances in a setting like no other. A legacy of musical splendour For years, the City of Athens Lycabettus Theatre has been a cornerstone of Athens’ cultural scene, hosting legendary concerts that have left an indelible mark on the city’s musical history. Imagine the thrill of witnessing performances by renowned artists such as Radiohead, Björk, Lou Reed, Nick Cave, and many more against the backdrop of the starlit Athenian sky. It’s a venue steeped in history and melodies that resonate through time. A grand revival Originally envisioned by the esteemed architect Takis Zenetos in 1965, this architectural marvel has recently undergone a grand renovation, breathing new life into its hallowed stage. Following a spectacular reopening in September 2023 with a magnificent concert by Greek composer Stavros Xarchakos, this summer heralds the true debut of the theatre’s renaissance, promising a lineup that will set the city abuzz with excitement and anticipation. Summer extravaganza Operated by Technopolis Athens, the City of Athens Lycabettus Theatre is set to dazzle audiences with a vibrant program of over 50 nights of concerts catering to diverse musical tastes. The summer season kicks off with collaborations with esteemed music festivals like Plisskën Festival… Read More

Flamenco dance show comes to Sydney

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The Royal Opera of Madrid and Fever, known for their successful collaboration on a world tour last year, are back together. If you’re heading to London, don’t miss the Flamenco Festival there at Sadler’s Wells! They will present the critically acclaimed traditional flamenco dance show, Authentic Flamenco, in Sydney this June for a limited engagement. This captivating live performance will enchant audiences with the soul-stirring artistry of flamenco, a beloved Spanish cultural treasure celebrated worldwide. Tickets for Authentic Flamenco are now available for purchase starting today. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the magic of flamenco brought to life on stage in Sydney. Authentic Flamenco has garnered praise and admiration across continents, drawing in over 124,000 attendees globally. This year, the show promises to dazzle spectators at Sydney’s Seymour Centre on Friday, June 28, 2024 and Saturday, June 29, 2024. Prepare to be mesmerized by a 65-minute live presentation by SO-LA-NA Entertainment, renowned for creating exclusive and captivating performances. Experience a display of raw passion and emotion showcased by a talented lineup of artists: Event information For more details and ticket purchases, visit Authentic Flamenco Show. In London, there’s only one place you need to go for more Flamenco; Sadler’s Wells!

Sydney Contemporary new galleries to the FUTURE sector

Roslyn Oxley Gallery

Sydney Contemporary is thrilled to announce the inclusion of esteemed galleries ACAE Gallery from Melbourne, Five Walls Gallery also hailing from Melbourne, and Minerva based in Sydney, into the illustrious FUTURE sector of the Fair for the year 2024. These new additions join the ranks alongside returning favourites Jennings Kerr from Robertson, NSW, and LON Gallery from Melbourne. The art aficionados and enthusiasts are invited to secure their tickets for Sydney Contemporary through the online portal at: Sydney Contemporary Tickets Sydney Contemporary takes immense pride in its association with the NSW Government, receiving steadfast support from the state’s tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW. This collaborative effort ensures the continued success and vibrancy of this cultural extravaganza, solidifying Sydney’s position as a hub for contemporary art and creativity. Tickets to Sydney Contemporary are available to purchase online: https://sydneycontemporary.com.au/tickets/

Sydney orchestra gets a new world famous player

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Renowned for his mesmerising rendition of Les Baricades Mistérieuses and Jean-François Tapray’s variation of Rameau’s Les Sauvages, the talented harpsichord virtuoso Justin is poised to captivate audiences with his artistry. Collaborating with celebrated designer Trent Suidgeest, known for his immersive and theatrical styling inspired by the opulence of the Château de Versailles, Justin promises a performance that transcends mere music. A musical masterpiece comes to life Co-founder and Artistic Director of the renowned ensemble, Paul Dyer, expresses his anticipation for Justin’s Australian debut on the Brandenburg stage. Recognizing Justin as an exceptional performer and a true master of the harpsichord despite his youth, Dyer sets the stage for an unforgettable evening of musical excellence. The grandeur of the Bach’s Concerto for Four Harpsichords, with Justin joined by Neal and Anthony, promises a symphonic experience like no other. The artistry of Justin unveiled With a repertoire that includes intricate pieces like Les Baricades Mistérieuses and Les Sauvages, Justin’s mastery of the harpsichord shines through in every note. His interpretation of these Baroque classics, combined with his innovative flair, transports audiences to a realm of musical sophistication and emotional depth. Collaborating with fellow musicians of exceptional calibre, Justin elevates the performance to new heights, promising a harmonious fusion of talent and creativity. A stylistic symphony inspired by history Under the artistic vision of Trent Suidgeest, the performance takes on a transformative quality, drawing inspiration from the grandeur and elegance of the Château de Versailles. Suidgeest’s immersive and theatrical styling imbues the concert with a visual richness that… Read More