There’s this much to see at Sydney Contemporary

Australia’s premier art fair, Sydney Contemporary, is being held once again under the spacious arches of Carriageworks. This year’s fair hosts 87 galleries from around Australia and the world, featuring the works of more than 400 artists. 

Sydney Contemporary attracts thousands of visitors every year, with its broad ranging exhibtion appealing to art collectors, individual buyers, and those who simply enjoy new and diverse art. 

In his opening address at the media launch, founder and co-owner, Tim Etchells spoke about the incredible success of the fair, quoting sales averaging around $20 million — remarkable for such a short event. But while sales are obviously the main objective of the fair, Etchells sees Sydney Contemporary as something to be experienced in its own right. 

“I love seeing the change in dynamics over the days, when today we have the serious collectors coming in and having a really good look at what they want to buy, then, as the days progress we then get families and people that just love coming for a great day out here at Carriageworks and enjoying all the great art,” he said. 

Etchells’ comment is supported by Zoe Paulson. This year is Paulson’s first as fair director, and she’s clearly excited by the offerings. 

“Sydney Contemporary is so much more than just an art fair; it’s an epic celebration of creativity and culture. It’s impact extends far beyond the event itself, influencing art trends and discussions in the broader cultural landscape. It fuels new ideas and helps to define the future of contemporary art in Australia,” said Paulson in her address. 

The fair caters to all budgets, with items ranging from a couple of hundred dollars to the most expensive piece, an untitled work by late Indigenous artist, Emily Kame Kngwarreye priced at $3.35 million. 

As well as a massive exhibition, visitors to Sydney Contemporary can enjoy a informative talks and exciting performances. Each program this year has been curated by a passionate expert with a view to pleasing aficionados and curious newcomers alike. 

A highlight this year is the Work On Paper sector, which has been expanded. With the collection including print-making, water colours, drawing, artist’s books, paper sculptures, photos, posters and zines, this sector will appeal to those just entering the art market and those with a limited budget. 

Redbase Art has a booth in the Work On Paper sector for the first time, although they’ve appeared at previous fairs in the general exhibition space. They are representing 13 artists who come from Indonesia, New Zealand, Afghanistan, China, and Korea, with a range of styles. Among their highlights are works by very prominant Chinese artist, Jin Sha, and tapestries by New Zealand artist, Roger Mortimer. 

Emily Parker from Brisbane-based Parker Contemporary, has brought six Brisbane artists and one Sydney artist to her booth. When she curates, she looks for artists who have a physicality and texture to their works. Parker agrees that print and paper art is more accessible since it is more easily transported and easier to display or store. Among her collection is an artist book by Carolyn Craig.

Damien Minto’s collection of vintage rock’n’roll posters is a perfect example of the eclectic offerings at this year’s fair. Minto describes the works as pop or street art, something some people see as lesser art but that he and many collectors value as legitimate art forms. His booth includes posters created by Paul Worstead,  Libby Blainey, John Foy and Toby Zoates, all highly esteemed artists in this genre. 

Among the artists represented by Martin Browne this year are stunning sculptures by Linde Ivimey comprised of chicken bones, plastic ties, semi-precious stones, knitted copper and a variety of other materials. Also at his booth is an interactive digital wall-mounted installation by world-renowned Japanese artist, teamLab, featuring a beautiful animated flower display inspired by gardens in Kyoto. 

Louis Pratt’s anamorphic sculptures are a must see. The sculptures are 3D print-outs of real people, created with the help of a computer scientist and organic digital data. The figures have been distorted and give a sense of movement. He also has two installations featuring objects — a silver skull and a bronze gun, respectively — mounted on a pole and positioned in front of a round concave mirror. The effect is mind-boggling. 

Principal event partner, MA Financial Group, in its eighth year with Sydney Contemporary, awarded its annual MA Art Prize to First Nations artist, Alfred Lowe. Lowe’s vividly coloured, unique clay, ceramic and raffia sculptures speak to his lived experience growing up in Central Australia. His work is represented by Sabbia Gallery. 

Until September 8

Carriageworks, 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh

sydneycontemporary.com.au