The countdown has begun for the 25th Biennale of Sydney, one of the world’s most celebrated contemporary art events, set to run from 14 March to 14 June 2026.
Promising a dynamic blend of bold artistic expression and cultural exchange, this milestone event will be staged at multiple venues, with Sydney’s historic White Bay Power Station once again taking centre stage.
A Return to White Bay Power Station
The iconic White Bay Power Station will serve as a focal point for the 2026 Biennale, following its triumphant debut as an arts venue in 2024. Transformed into a vibrant hub for contemporary creativity, the power station proved to be a sensational backdrop for large-scale installations and brought in over 174,000 visitors in its first outing as part of the Biennale. NSW Minister for the Arts, John Graham, summed up the significance of the space, calling it “a bold canvas for the colour and creativity of the Biennale.”
Chief Executive Officer of the Biennale, Barbara Moore, noted, “The overwhelming success of the 24th edition showed the incredible potential of this space to inspire, engage, and connect people. We are proud to make it a centrepiece once again for 2026.”
Championing First Nations Art
The 25th Biennale also brings a renewed focus on amplifying First Nations voices through its continued partnership with Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain. This partnership sees the appointment of Bruce Johnson McLean as the Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain First Nations Curatorial Fellow. McLean, a deeply respected member of the Wierdi people of Wribpid, brings more than 25 years of expertise in First Nations art and culture to his role.
Speaking about his appointment, McLean said, “I am honoured to work with the Biennale of Sydney and Fondation Cartier, two organisations that have a proud history of supporting First Nations artists on the global stage. Under the vision of Artistic Director Hoor Al Qasimi, the 25th edition will shine a spotlight on ambitious First Nations projects and create connections between artists from around the world.”
This role was created in 2023 as part of the Biennale’s ongoing commitment to showcasing First Nations art. McLean follows in the footsteps of artist Tony Albert, who worked with 14 First Nations artists for the 2024 edition, bringing their powerful creative visions to audiences worldwide.
A Festival for Everyone
The Biennale’s 25th edition, under the direction of globally renowned curator Hoor Al Qasimi, promises to spark dialogue and challenge perceptions, with a program that reflects the diversity and energy of contemporary art. Al Qasimi shared, “The Biennale has always been a platform for artists to share stories, inspire connection, and push boundaries. We are committed to creating a festival that is inclusive and rooted in history, community, and the power of art.”
Free to attend, the Biennale of Sydney continues to be a leading light in the international cultural landscape. Partnering with Inner West Council, the 2026 festival will deepen engagement with local artists and communities through a robust public program, further cementing White Bay Power Station’s place as a vital cultural venue for Sydney.
Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The return of the Biennale to White Bay Power Station marks another step in establishing the Inner West as Australia’s premier arts destination.”
Get Ready to Be Inspired
More details about the 2026 Biennale of Sydney will be unveiled over the coming months, but one thing is clear – this edition will be a spectacular celebration of creativity, storytelling, and cultural significance. Whether it’s through breathtaking installations in White Bay Power Station or vibrant works of First Nations artists from across the globe, the Biennale invites visitors to engage in a powerful artistic experience unlike any other.
Mark your calendars from 14 March to 14 June 2026 and prepare to immerse yourself in the extraordinary. For updates and further information, visit biennaleofsydney.art.