TRAVEL

Why Crete is the digital detox destination you need

13/10/2024

As summer’s vibrant energy gracefully transitions into the calm embrace of Autumn, Seaside A Lifestyle Resort in Crete extends an invitation to travellers seeking the serenity of quiet travel and a much-needed digital detox. Nestled amidst the tranquil and unspoiled beauty of Crete, this resort promises an all-inclusive oasis of calm, ideal for those looking to reconnect with themselves amidst eye-catching landscapes. Autumn heralds a season of new beginnings and resets. The fast pace of daily life often leaves little room for the self-care we truly require. At Seaside A Lifestyle Resort, guests are welcomed to cocoon in comfort, surrounded by natural beauty and tranquillity. This sanctuary is perfect for experiencing the growing trend of wellness travel, particularly among those enamoured with the ‘wellness retreat aesthetic’, which has seen a significant rise in popularity. Here are a few compelling reasons to visit this luxurious resort in Crete, where you can create lifelong memories, experience heartfelt hospitality, and immerse yourself in relaxation and wellbeing, all while enjoying the resort’s dramatic views: Quiet Experiences From sunrise to sunset, Seaside A Lifestyle Resort offers visitors a serene escape where life slows down to a peaceful rhythm. Whether you’re seeking a spiritual connection, a path to self-love, or simply a break from the stresses of daily life, the resort provides a space that fosters peace and tranquillity. Begin your day with a journey to oneness at the resort’s Yoga Shala, a place designed to deepen the connection between mind, body, and spirit. Here, silence is cherished, allowing you to… Read More

New study unveils Britain’s 30 most beautiful buildings

05/10/2024

By James Banham

In a nation steeped in history and architectural grandeur, a recent survey has unveiled a definitive list of Britain’s 30 most beautiful buildings, capturing the hearts and imaginations of residents and tourists alike.

10 best pumpkin patches to visit in the UK this October

05/10/2024

By James Banham

As autumn paints the UK countryside in hues of gold and orange, the allure of pumpkin patches becomes irresistible for both families and avid Instagrammers. This October, capture the essence of the season by visiting some of the most photogenic pumpkin patches across the UK. From scenic landscapes to vibrant festivals, these locations not only offer the perfect backdrop for your autumn snaps but also provide a range of activities that ensure a day filled with fun and memorable experiences. 1. Cotswold Farm Park, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire Leading the list with stunning countryside views, Cotswold Farm Park is a haven for those looking to capture the beauty of autumn. With 51,000 Instagram followers and 11,300 hashtags, its popularity is well-deserved. Beyond pumpkin picking, you can meet rare breed animals and explore interactive exhibits. The tractor rides and locally sourced dishes at the café add layers of charm to your visit, making it a quintessential day out. 2. Tulleys Farm, Crawley, West Sussex Tulleys Farm, a favorite with 42,300 Instagram mentions, offers a unique night-time experience with its ‘Pumpkin Nights’. The twinkling lights and live music provide an enchanting setting, perfect for photos. This venue is also famous for its Shocktober Fest, blending pumpkin picking with a thrilling twist, ensuring your Instagram feed will be as exciting as it is beautiful. 3. Garsons Farm, Esher, Surrey With its lush green backdrops and a score of 27,400 Instagram points, Garsons Farm is a dream for nature-filled photography. As a pick-your-own paradise, it allows you to harvest everything from… Read More

Sydney Harbour Bridge sunshine afternoon

New experience at Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb: Climb & unwind

29/07/2024

By James Banham

BridgeClimb Sydney stands out as a must-do adventure for both locals and tourists, offering a chance to ascend the Sydney Harbour Bridge, one of Australia’s most iconic structures. Launched in October 1998, this experience promises an adrenaline rush and breathtaking panoramic views of Sydney Harbour. With various climb options ranging from approximately $160 to $390, including special sunset climbs, participants are guided by experienced leaders who ensure safety and share fascinating stories about the bridge’s history and engineering. Designed to be manageable for participants aged eight to 100, BridgeClimb Sydney is a family-friendly activity catering to a wide range of fitness levels. Climbers are equipped with all necessary gear, including a climbing suit and harness, ensuring safety throughout the ascent. As they make their way up the bridge, climbers can expect awe-inspiring moments and opportunities to capture incredible photos of Sydney Harbour. For those looking to tick this world-class experience off their bucket list, booking directly through the official BridgeClimb website is recommended. BridgeClimb Sydney is more than just a climb; it’s an unforgettable journey providing a unique perspective on one of Australia’s greatest architectural marvels, leaving lasting memories for both local residents and visiting tourists. Now this year, they’re adding something new to their experience! BridgeClimb Sydney is taking things to new heights—literally and figuratively—with its latest offering, the “Climb & Unwind” package. In an exciting partnership with Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La Sydney, this exclusive experience marries the thrill of scaling the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge with the luxurious pampering of a high-end… Read More

Welcome to Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach

24/07/2024

By THE F

Discover the harmonious blend of comfort and adventure at Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach. Nestled along the stunning south coast of Mykonos, guests can embark on various explorations, from traditional kaiique rides to the archaeological wonders of Delos, or even charter a boat to the unspoiled waters of Rhenia. The around-the-clock concierge service is on hand to facilitate travel and dining reservations, suggest activities, and cater to special needs, aiming to ensure a hassle-free and memorable stay. Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach, as part of the exclusive Myconian Collection, offers guests priority bookings at top-tier spas and restaurants, enriching their experience even further. The venue is ideal for special events, with its unique and picturesque setting promising unforgettable memories. The dedicated team is focused on tailoring experiences to align with guests’ wishes, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to exceptional service. At Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach, you are encouraged to slow down, relish every moment, and craft lasting memories in an environment that feels like a true home away from home. This sense of genuine hospitality and deep connection to the island’s heart defines Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach, making it a tranquil haven and a unique gem in Mykonos.

Tag: vivid sydney

Amy Poehler pays a visit to VIVID Sydney 2024

by THE F

Updated: 30/05/2024

Amy Poehler is in Sydney and celebrating VIVID! Renowned for her versatility and numerous talents including acting, writing, directing, producing, and authoring bestselling books, was present for Vivid Sydney Presents – In Conversation with Amy Poehler along with a sneak peek at Disney and Pixar’s ‘Inside Out 2’. Here is where to eat during VIVID Sydney The sold-out gathering at the Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House, treated attendees to an exclusive 30-minute preview of selected scenes from the much-anticipated sequel Inside Out 2. This film continues the story of Disney and Pixar’s Academy Award®-winning and critically acclaimed Inside Out (2015), with Poehler reprising her role as Joy. The Conversation, moderated by Zan Rowe, delved into the fascinating nuances of Amy’s creative mind. Noteworthy attendees who graced the event included children’s entertainer Emma Watkins, television presenter Rove McManus, actress April Rose Pengilly, Senior Vice President & Managing Director The Walt Disney Company Australia & New Zealand Kylie Watson-Wheeler, The Wiggles’ Tsehay Hawkins, comedian Tanya Hennessy, and many more. More on what to expect this VIVID Post-event, a bespoke ‘Inside Out 2’ projection illuminated Customs House at Circular Quay in a one-off, 30-minute display. Vivid Sydney, the Southern Hemisphere’s premier multi-arts festival, transforms the city into a vibrant center of creativity, innovation, and community engagement. Reflecting the 2024 festival theme, Humanity, the Vivid Ideas program serves as a platform for inspiration, challenging conventional perspectives about the world, and bringing sharp analysis, thoughtful discussion, and memorable dialogues to Sydney. The 2024 lineup also showcases must-see events such… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, FEATURES, SYDNEY

Tags: Amy Poehler, sydney, vivid sydney

Vivid Sydney Unveils Tekno Train Experience by Paul Mac

Sydney Vivid lights night pexels horace young 1063288334 20517024

by James Banham

Posted: 21/05/2024

Train travel will never be the same again: in an Australian first, Vivid Sydney today announced Tekno Train by Paul Mac, a one-of-a-kind event that will transform a Sydney Trains service into a moving, sensory sound and light experience for 23 nights only. Exclusive to Vivid Sydney, the Southern Hemisphere’s leading multi-artform festival, and in collaboration with Sydney Trains, Tekno Train by Paul Mac is set to radically reinvent the experience of train travel as a thrilling musical adventure for a limited time only. Passengers will be treated to an original techno soundtrack composed by Paul Mac especially for the Tekno Train, accompanied by immersive custom lighting that will illuminate the interior of all carriages. As the train moves, the lights and music will rhythmically adjust to match the train’s speed and changing landscape outside, crafting a melodic and unforgettable ride through both Sydney’s city circle and disused train lines. Ticketholders will take their seat on what appears to be a standard K set train; however, as the train leaves Central Station, the adventure begins. Hidden lights and speakers will create a communal experience with synchronised lights driven by techno music. The project sees Paul Mac continue a musical journey that shares his unique and emotional electronic dance music language in an unexpected setting. Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham said: “Multi-ARIA Award winner Paul Mac composing the tracks on the tracks will lift a routine experience like jumping on a train in the city into a joyous moment and a unique, shared experience…. Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, SYDNEY

Tags: sydney, vivid, vivid sydney, what's on sydney

Vivid Sydney and what to expect this 2024

a building with a large structure with lights on it

by James Banham

Updated: 20/05/2024

This week marks the launch of “A New Normal,” an exhibition that will bring together more than fifty of Sydney’s most ambitious designers, architects, developers, technologists, brands, and architects to present innovative solutions to some of the city’s most persistent challenges. Find out which restaurants and bars have special offers this Vivid Sydney 2024! Presented in partnership with Vivid Ideas Sydney, Zen Energy, and Landcom, this exhibition aims to showcase practical approaches that collectively represent a $120 billion investment opportunity, promising profitable initiatives that will pay for themselves within seven years. Hosted at the Powerhouse Museum’s Harwood Building from 24 May to 15 June, and free to the public, “A New Normal” is part-gallery, part-pavilion, and part-community meeting place. The exhibition will feature future prototypes and more than twenty concepts aimed at transforming Sydney into a self-sufficient city. These concepts include sustainable solutions such as a beer made from recycled wastewater in partnership with Heaps Normal, the rehabilitation of the Cooks River, a reimagined community gardening model, and a coat hanger-eating robot. Other highlights include a 1,000-megawatt pumped hydro power project capable of powering 500,000 homes for eight continuous hours and a classic 1973 VW Squareback converted into an electric vehicle. Led by Jess Miller, former Councillor and Deputy Lord Mayor of Sydney, this exhibition results from a massive collaboration between some of Australia’s most forward-thinking and practical minds. It aims to serve as a blueprint for a more sustainable decade by assembling real-world solutions to seemingly insurmountable problems. Following its initial success at Melbourne… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, SYDNEY

Tags: sydney, vivid sydney, Vivid Sydney exhibition, what's on sydney

Where to eat and drink in Sydney for VIVID in 2024

by James Banham

Updated: 16/06/2024

This annual event, typically spanning three weeks, sees iconic landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and various urban spaces, illuminated with spectacular light installations and projections.

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, SYDNEY

Tags: Vivid restaurants, vivid sydney, Vivid Sydney. Vivid, where to eat

What to look forward to at VIVID Sydney this year

by James Banham

Updated: 27/05/2023

Get excited because Vivid Sydney is back for its 13th year and the opening night was nothing short of spectacular. The night featured a Welcome to Country ceremony, fireworks, drone shows and a Lighting of the Sails at the iconic Sydney Opera House. Indigenous artists representing different language groups added a special touch to the ceremony with an incredible performance. The festival will run for 23 days and will showcase over 300 events featuring the world’s most innovative artists, talented musicians and thought leaders. This year’s theme, ‘Vivid Sydney, Naturally,’ celebrates Mother Nature as the master creator of all things beautiful. You can expect to be blown away by the stunning art installations that are inspired by nature, among other things. Australia’s largest event has expanded to become a world-class program shining a light on all cultural aspects of the city and drawing in visitors from all over the world. With a variety of activations and events happening across various locations in Sydney, including Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo, and the Royal Botanic Garden, there is something for everyone. This year’s program is the biggest in the festival’s history. Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham said, “I am looking forward especially to Vivid Music – seeing our venues come alive with some incredible artists – it is one of the best programs to date.” And Festival Director Gill Minervini added, “We have raised the bar on the size and scale of the events and activated new parts of the city. Our lineup features more diverse… Read More

Category: CITIES, SYDNEY

Tags: Guide to Vivid Sydney, Sydney arts, Sydney what's on, vivid, Vivid 2023, vivid sydney, Vivid Sydney 2023, What to do Sydney

What’s on for Dark Spectrum this VIVID Sydney

by THE F

Posted: 17/05/2023

Sydney on 26 May, running until 16 July before touring the world.After three years of intense preparation, the highly-anticipated immersive journey of light and sound known as Dark Spectrum is set to debut in Australia’s largest festival, Vivid Sydney. The first of its kind in the world, Dark Spectrum aims to take visitors on a intense exploration of the human experience, featuring themes such as separation, pressure, reflection and revelation, all represented by individual colours of light which explode within eight unique spaces. Incorporating state-of-the-art technology such as music, robotics, and laser systems, visitors will be able to step inside each artwork as part of a six-week long display. As they wander through the tunnels, visitors will be treated to a five-minute soundtrack in each space, accompanied by a constantly evolving atmosphere, resulting in an overload of light and sound that will trigger unique emotions with every transition. The experience will be highly immersive, with restricted visitor groups entering the tunnels in order to avoid overcrowding. Some portions of the tunnels, originally built in the 1930s as part of Wynyard Station’s unused Platforms 1 and 2, have never before been open to the public, adding an extra layer of exclusivity to the already highly-anticipated event. As visitors move from one tunnel to the next, they will enter new colours of the spectrum, each with its own unique energy, music, and visual effects. Each room in the display is thematically arranged to represent different aspects of the human experience. For example, the first room, titled “Separation”,… Read More

Category: CITIES, SYDNEY

Tags: Dark Spectrum, light festival, sydney light festival, vivid sydney, What to see vivid sydney, What's On Sydney

Novotel Sydney does VIVID Sydney

by James Banham

Posted: 15/04/2023

If you’re planning to visit Sydney this May and June, Novotel Sydney Central should definitely be on your list. The VIVID Festival, an annual festival of light, music and ideas, is coming back and they have something exciting in store for all ages. Novotel Sydney Central has partnered with Sugar Republic to bring an interactive illuminated ball pit to their lobby during the festival. Filled with colorful balls, surrounded by neon lights and available to the general public and guests alike. It’s the perfect way for grown-ups to relive their childhood memories, and for kids to simply have fun! Oh, and let’s not forget about the perfect photo-op for avid Instagrammers! For those wanting to stay closer to the action, Novotel Sydney Central has announced a special VIVID package. This includes an overnight stay in a twin room, buffet breakfast where kids eat free, parking, and a welcome pack consisting of a bottle of wine for adults and a kids pack comprising of soft drinks and glow sticks! But it’s not just about staying at the hotel, because the Thomas St Kitchen and Bar will be offering special VIVID cocktails and food – making this the perfect date night or weekend getaway. So mark your calendar for the 19th of May to the 18th of June, and don’t miss out on Novotel Sydney Central’s VIVID activation. It’s the perfect place to create new memories and have a ball! Make a booking at the Novotel website

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIA, CITIES, FEATURES, SYDNEY, TRAVEL

Tags: Novotel, Novotel Sydney, Novotel VIVID Sydney, vivid sydney

Best ways to celebrate VIVID Sydney in The Rocks

by James Banham

Posted: 01/06/2022

Vivid Sydney is on! From 28 May to 18 June, the city comes to light in celebration of the artistry, culture and propensity to celebrate that is the city of Sydney. If you missed our best date night suggestions for the public event period, then scroll down for some more ways to celebrate that are less date-y and more let’s go out and have fun. For food, head to… 6HEAD will deliver an ultimate sensory experience through theatrical gastronomy, where you will have all five senses stimulated as they embark on a culinary journey designed to fascinate. The Rocks Markets will be hosting evenings of tasty treats throughout Vivid Sydney to keep you fuelled up, from pizza and gozleme to gelato, dumplings, crepes, BBQ and more. Throughout the lit-up stalls, visitors can also explore handmade jewellery, fabrics and gifts. And as a bonus, there’ll also be live music! Sights, eats and tunes? Sorted. Tayim’s outdoor alfresco dining courtyard, complete with glowing decorations, for the perfect opportunity to stop and fill up during their Vivid Sydney journey with falafels and fresh lamb skewers with a side of delicious cocktails and wine. Creperie Suzette, who will be serving up rainbow bagels and glitter coffees throughout the festival. Afterwards, stop by The Tea Cosy, who is transforming their courtyard on Atherden Street into a glow-themed garden, with neon lighting, glowing furniture and special menu items from Thursday to Sunday. For drinks, head to… Blu Bar on 36 has carefully curated a special Vivid Sydney Menu which is available… Read More

Category: CITIES, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: Sydney Vivid guide, vivid sydney, Vivid Sydney what's on, What to do Sydney Vivid

Date nights for VIVID Sydney in 2022

by James Banham

Posted: 24/05/2022

If you’re not climbing up Sydney Harbour Bridge or getting together at one of the many gin opportunities that lie before you this VIVID Sydney 2022, then perhaps date night’s on the cards. The Harbour View Hotel is putting on the festival of lights and visual art in their own way. And by offering delicious takeaway meals with drinks so there’s no need to worry about dinner before exploring the exhibitions around The Rocks. The Harbour View Hotel will be launching a special pop-up glow bar, serving glow in the dark cocktails outside their historic venue in The Rocks. This limited edition glow bar will be available throughout Vivid (from 27th May until 18th June), making it easy to sip on cocktails while you take in the stunning light installations of Vivid. The Harbour View Hotel will also be selling takeaway packs so you can wander through The Rocks and find the perfect picnic spot overlooking the harbour and Vivid lights. The Harbour View Hotel Vivid Takeaway pack (for $95) includes: Antipasto for 2 Stir fried noodles with chicken bites and capsicum x 2 Flatbread bread with roasted capsicum dipping sauce x 2 4 x Smirnoff Seltzers 1 x Blanket For more information, head to the Harbour View website

Category: ART, ARTS & CULTURE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE

Tags: Date night Vivid Sydney, Date nights for VIVID Sydney in 2022, vivid sydney, What to do Vivid Sydney

Drink gin at Bombay Sapphire’s ‘House of Bombay’ bar at VIVID Sydney

by James Banham

Posted: 21/05/2022

Darling Quarter is about to become the home of gin this VIVID Sydney and if ever there was a time to be curious, it’s now. Head to the House of Bombay. Located in Tumblong Park, Darling Quarter; a new Vivid Sydney location in Darling Harbour, guests of House of Bombay will experience an exhilarating fusion of creativity, innovation, technology and delicious cocktails. With the ability to host over 500 people, this limited-time-only bar is the perfect meeting place along this year’s Vivid Sydney Light Walk. Think views, colours, flavours and a hell of a lot of excitement for 23 nights, from Friday 27 May to Saturday 18 June, with more than 200+ events celebrating the essence of Sydney’s soul including its diversity, beauty, resilience, First Nations culture, and vibrant creative community. For more of what’s on and how to get involved, head to the House of Bombay website

Category: CITIES, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: Bombay, gin, vivid sydney

ARTS & CULTURE

NGV Architecture Commission 2024: Home Truth by Breathe

14/11/2024

By James Banham

In a bold reimagining of Australian home design, Home Truth by Breathe has been announced as the winner of the NGV Architecture Commission for 2024. This captivating installation takes the form of a labyrinthine house-within-a-house, challenging the notion of ever-expanding home sizes in Australia. At the heart of this design is a powerful message: rethink how we build to create more sustainable, higher-quality, and community-orientated living spaces. Home Truth invites visitors to step into a space that questions the ethical and ecological ramifications of the sprawling, oversized homes that have become prevalent across the nation. An external frame mirrors the silhouette of the average Australian home, which, at 236 square metres, ranks as the largest globally. Nestled within this silhouette is a serene timber structure, representing a smaller, more sustainable living footprint. This juxtaposition of scales is not just an architectural statement but a call to action. By contrasting these two structures, Home Truth shines a light on how smaller, more considered homes could help reduce suburban sprawl, mitigate environmental impacts, and enhance community wellbeing. It is a thought-provoking invitation for audiences to consider alternative, sustainable housing models that could lead to positive lifestyle changes. Visitors entering through the expansive garage door of the larger house find themselves navigating a maze of rooms and corridors, eventually arriving at the intimate timber retreat. This wooden haven offers a space for meditation and reflection, presenting a tangible vision of a more sustainable housing future. Constructed from framing pine and Saveboard, Home Truth uses materials emblematic of current… Read More

LOEWE PRECO SS25 SUNA FUJITA CERAMICS RGB CROPPED 4X5 3 5

Suna Fujita, LOEWE & Melbourne Art Fair to exhibit works

14/11/2024

By James Banham

In an exciting fusion of art and fashion, Melbourne Art Fair has announced a groundbreaking partnership with LOEWE, the esteemed luxury fashion brand renowned for its dedication to craftsmanship since 1846. This collaboration brings to life an exquisite preview of Jonathan Anderson’s renewed partnership with the Kyoto-based ceramist duo, Suna Fujita, marking a world-first exhibition in Australasia. The LOEWE x Suna Fujita collection made its debut with an intimate showcase at LOEWE’s Melbourne Collins Street store, offering an exclusive viewing experience of twenty whimsical ceramic pieces. These delicate works, celebrated for their intricate hand-painted scenes featuring ocean creatures and cosmic animals, seamlessly blend artistry with everyday function, transforming accessories and ready-to-wear items into enchanting works of art. Fair Director Melissa Loughnan expressed her enthusiasm for this creative union, stating, “This partnership is a reflection of Melbourne Art Fair and LOEWE’s shared commitment to supporting living artists and creatives, and an exciting precursor to the 18th edition of the Fair, which promises to be one of our most dynamic and anticipated showcases yet.” The collaboration not only highlights the playful essence of Suna Fujita’s ceramics but also underscores the vibrant art scene that Melbourne Art Fair champions. Launching today, the LOEWE x Suna Fujita collection is available both in stores and online at loewe.com, continuing until 29th December 2024. This artistic venture paves the way for the 18th edition of Melbourne Art Fair, set to take place from 20-23 February 2025 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. The fair will present a remarkable assembly of… Read More

Labyrinth in Concert comes to London’s Royal Festival Hall

12/11/2024

By James Banham

Prepare to be whisked away to the mystical realm of Goblin City with a legendary twist, as “Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: In Concert” makes its grand debut at London’s Royal Festival Hall. On Friday, 28th November 2025, fans of this beloved musical fantasy film will experience a spectacular fusion of cinema and live music that promises to be nothing short of magical. For the first time ever, Jim Henson’s original masterpiece, starring the one and only David Bowie, will come alive on stage with a captivating live band performance. Audiences will be treated to the enchanting melodies of Bowie’s original vocals, accompanied by the band in perfect harmony, all set against the backdrop of the movie projected on a large HD cinema screen. It’s a chance to relive the unforgettable music and adventure that has captured hearts for nearly 40 years since the film’s release in 1986. Produced by Black Ink Presents, a division of Sony Music Entertainment, this unique concert experience is set to enthral long-time fans and newcomers alike. Known for breathing new life into iconic films with live orchestras and bands, Black Ink Presents has previously dazzled audiences with events like Batman, Ghostbusters, and The Nightmare Before Christmas. CEO John Kinsner shares his excitement, stating, “I have always been a huge fan of the groundbreaking collaboration of Jim Henson, George Lucas, David Bowie, and Trevor Jones on this film, and bringing it to fans in a live concert screening experience is a dream come true. Getting to hear Bowie’s vocals with a live… Read More

Why rush to National Art School postgrad show

12/11/2024

By James Banham

Step into the vibrant world of the arts at the National Art School (NAS) as it proudly unveils the 2024 Postgrad Show, a spectacular showcase of over 400 works by Australia’s next generation of emerging artists. Open to the public until 17 November 2024, this annual exhibition has firmly established itself as a pivotal event in Sydney’s cultural calendar, attracting gallerists, collectors, and art enthusiasts eager to discover fresh talent. The Postgrad Show serves as a launchpad for these budding artists, featuring the final bodies of work by the Master of Fine Art (MFA) graduates. This year’s exhibition offers an eclectic mix of mediums including painting, sculpture, printmaking, video, collage, 3D printing, performance, photography, drawing, and ceramics. Each piece is a testament to the diverse themes being explored—ranging from natural and digital ecosystems to identity, the Anthropocene, philosophy, and personal narratives. Ceramics take centre stage with artists like Benjamin Akuila, who delves into themes of construction, authenticity, and plasticity, informed by his Tongan heritage. His work offers a compelling exploration of queer and diasporic identity through hybrid cultural narratives. Meanwhile, Chrystie Longworth uses ceramic forms to navigate femininity, identity, and domesticity, drawing inspiration from historical subversive messages crafted by women in textiles. Her work, with its tactile terracotta and pigment surfaces, invites viewers to experience a subtle play of light and texture. From the drawing studios, Quan Zhu Ma marries traditional Chinese philosophy with contemporary practices, using innovative materials like heated charcoal and ash. His work reimagines traditional ink art, creating a fusion that resonates… Read More

Christmas music treat in Sydney: Handel’s Messiah returns

11/11/2024

By James Banham

This December, the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs are set to enchant audiences once again with their much-loved Messiah concerts, a cherished Sydney Christmas tradition that has spanned over a century.