Brand new program announced for Sydney’s premier international arts festival

Minister of State, Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney

Sydney’s premier international festival of contemporary art, the Biennale of Sydney, has launched its brand new program today, focusing on water, sustainability, and collaboration.

The 23rd Biennale of Sydney, to be held from 12 March to 13 June 2022, was established in 1973 and is the largest exhibition of its kind in Australia.

Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney, and Minister for Trade and Industry Stuart Ayres said this year’s public program will encompass an expansive series of events and experiences throughout arts precincts across Sydney.

“Investing in the Biennale of Sydney, including the 2024 program, is so important, particularly after the challenges faced in the past two years for the arts and creative industries,” Mr Ayres said.

“Our investment in this outstanding event aligns with the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy and our goal to position Sydney as the events capital of the Asia Pacific by driving visitation to the state.”

“Visitors will be encouraged to flow from venue to venue during the festival, on a course that is inclusive and accessible by walking, biking, wheelchairs, and public transport,” he said.

Art activations will be featured in the Art Gallery of NSW, Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, National Art School in partnership with Artspace and cultural precincts in Barangaroo, Circular Quay Parramatta, The Rocks, and Walsh Bay Arts Precinct.

The Minister for the Arts Don Harwin said the Biennale of Sydney was set to fill the city once again with imagination and creativity, offering the most exciting contemporary arts and culture from home and abroad.

“Arts and culture are an integral part of what makes Sydney a lively and vibrant place and I am pleased the NSW Government can deliver this free blockbuster festival for audiences. I encourage all Sydneysiders to come out and enjoy this exciting cultural experience,” Minister Harwin said.

Curator Lleah Smith said the program supported the sharing of space and ideas, inspiring communities to collectively consider a different kind of future.

“It is a program grounded in equity, enabling both active and quiet participation through diverse encounters,” Ms Smith said.

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