For nearly 50 years, the Biennale of Sydney has presented some of the most dynamic contemporary art from around the globe in iconic venues across Sydney. This year’s exhibition, titled NIRIN and meaning edge in Wiradjuri, is an artist- and First Nations-led biennale showcasing more than 700 artworks by 101 artists and collectives. A global platform for diverse cultures and perspectives, the Biennale unites people across the world, stimulating dialogue and inspiring change.
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and potential impact on the safety of visitors, artists, staff and wider community the Biennale of Sydney has closed its public exhibitions and have moved online with a digital program working with long-time Biennale partner Google – and in a first for the Biennale of Sydney – audiences around the world are able to engage with NIRIN on the Google Arts & Culture platform. Creating a virtual Biennale that brings the exhibition and programs to life through live content, virtual walk-throughs, podcasts, interactive Q&As, curated tours and artist takeovers.
The Biennale remains artist-led and will allow participating artists to lead the way in responding to the urgent social, political, and environmental issues we are facing today. The Biennale of Sydney is therefore shifting to digital programs, sharing more in coming weeks, and looks forward to welcoming audiences back to the physical exhibition when Government authorities deem it safe to reopen. Until then, the Biennale of Sydney team encourages everyone to look after one another during this challenging time – and, when going to look for connections in isolation, to engage online.
artsandculture.google.com/biennale-of-sydney
About the Biennale of Sydney
Established in 1973, it is the third oldest biennial in the world after Venice and Sa?o Paulo and the largest exhibition of its kind in Australia. The Biennale of Sydney has commissioned and presented exceptional works of art by more than 1,800 national and international artists from more than 100 countries. One of the leading international contemporary art events in the world, it plays an indispensable role in Australia’s engagement with the world, and a meaningful role in the life of the nation.
The Biennale presents the most dynamic contemporary art from around the globe in venues across Sydney with exhibitions that ignite and surprise people, sparking dialogue, cultivating connections and inspiring action through meaningful, shared arts experiences.
The Biennale of Sydney is committed to free access for all and, in 2018, attracted visitation of over 854,000, the highest level in its 45-year history. The Biennale attracts a broad audience: local, interstate, international, culturally diverse and intergenerational. The 22nd Biennale of Sydney, titled NIRIN, is open from 14 March to 8 June 2020.
For information on the exhibition, go to biennaleofsydney.art.
