Coming of Art: 21 years of Art After Hours
Image: Matthew Aberline 'Becoming the path of least resistance' 2024 © the artist
This October, the Art Gallery of New South Wales is marking a significant milestone; 21 years of its flagship program, Art After Hours. For over two decades, this late-night experience has invited art lovers and night owls alike to explore the gallery after dark, and to celebrate its 21st birthday, the Gallery is pulling out all the stops with three special nights in October.
Taking place on Wednesday evenings – October 9th, 16th, and 23rd – the events will explore themes of rituals and coming-of-age celebrations, offering a vibrant mix of exhibition, performance, and workshops. Each evening will feature high-energy performances and interactive events with renowned artists and performers, including Betty Grumble, Matthew Aberline, and the collaborative project CREATION, led by Deborah Kelly.
One of the highlights of the celebration is Betty Grumble’s Grumble Boogie, a 40-minute dance meditation that combines aerobics and gratitude exercises. This unique workshop welcomes participants of all movement levels to celebrate their bodies in a joyful, energetic atmosphere. Meanwhile, Improv Theatre Sydney will transform audience stories of turning 21 into improvised comedic performances, offering laughter and surprise.
In an immersive experience, Deborah Kelly’s CREATION blends art with activism, inviting participants to join in a headdress-making workshop and choir rehearsal. The project culminates in a performance exploring queer identity, climate change, and collective joy. Additionally, visitors can engage with Matthew Aberline’s lantern-making workshop, contributing to a growing installation that will light up the gallery.
For art enthusiasts, the gallery will host free guided tours of its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander collection, while Jezzy Fezzy leads the creation of a giant, monster-themed birthday card. Art After Hours Turns 21 is a free event, running from 5–10 p.m. across both Gallery buildings on Wednesdays in October.
October 9th, 16th and 23rd
Art Gallery of NSW
https://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/whats-on/art-after-hours/
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