Biennale of Sydney

The Biennale of Sydney, Sydney Opera House and the Fondation Cartier join forces through a creative partnership on commissioning, presenting and promoting First Nations artists from all over the world within the Biennale of Sydney program starting March 2024.

As a Visionary Partner, the Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain has worked with the Biennale of Sydney to commission 14 First Nations artists, including (but not exclusively) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, to create new work for the edition. These artists include Mangala Bai Maravi, Doreen Chapman, Megan Cope, Cristina Flores Pescorán, Freddy Mamani, Dylan Mooney, Orquideas Barrileteras, John Pule, Eric-Paul Riege, Darrell Sibosado, Kaylene Whiskey, Yangamini, and Nikau Hindin in collaboration with Ebonie Fifita-Laufilitoga-Maka, Hina Puamohala Kneubuhl, Hinatea Colombani, Kesaia Biuvanua and Rongomai Gbric-Hoskins. They will work closely with the inaugural Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain First Nations Curatorial Fellow Tony Albert to realise their artworks. This is part of the ongoing partnership between the Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain and the Biennale of Sydney, which also includes a creative collaboration with the Sydney Opera House.

Image gallery

Nikau Hindin, Group Biennale of Sydney, 2024
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©Mark Pokorny

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Freddy Mamani, Biennale of Sydney, 2024
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©Mark Pokorny

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John Pule, Biennale of Sydney, 2024
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©Mark Pokorny

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Doreen Chapman, Biennale of Sydney, 2024
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©Mark Pokorny

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Cristina Flores Pescoran, Biennale of Sydney, 2024
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©Mark Pokorny

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Darrell Sibosado, Biennale of Sydney, 2024
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©Mark Pokorny

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Mangala Bai, Biennale of Sydney, 2024
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©Mark Pokorny

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Kaylene Whiskey, Biennale of Sydney, 2024
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©Mark Pokorny

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Eric Paul Riege, Biennale of Sydney, 2024
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©Mark Pokorny

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Yangamini, Biennale of Sydney, 2024
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©Mark Pokorny

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Picture © Daniel Boud.

Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain First Nations Curatorial Fellow Tony Albert said: “I am so grateful and excited to look at the year ahead as the inaugural recipient of the Sydney Biennale and Foundation Cartier First Nations Curatorial Fellowship. Both of these organisations are visionary pioneers in showcasing and promoting incredible works of art. Indigenous Australian art has a unique identity and position within the contemporary art world. A platform to expand the development of strong curatorial perimeters with First Nations peoples represents an important and timely partnership. In my hopes and dreams I believe that this partnership will bring outstanding commissions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art and curatorial excellence to the rest of the world.”

Tony Albert, Fondation Cartier pour l'art contemporain First Nations Curatorial Fellow

“By becoming the Visionary Partner of the Biennale of Sydney, the Fondation Cartier pour l'art contemporain meaningfully demonstrates a commitment to diversity, inclusivity, artistic innovation and excellence. This partnership reflects our belief in empowering First Nations communities to share their truths and underscores the crucial role of listening to their voices as we navigate the challenges of our planet. First Nations artists bring their rich cultural heritage and unique artistic traditions to the contemporary art scene. Their innovative approaches, and storytelling techniques can enrich the artistic landscape and challenge conventional norms in the art world. For forty years, through art and creativity, we aim to promote public awareness of, and foster a deep appreciation for, contemporary art from all over the world.”

Hervé Chandès, International Director of Fondation Cartier

Picture © Daniel Boud.

L’Opéra de Sydney

The Biennale of Sydney, Sydney Opera House and the Fondation Cartier join forces through a creative partnership on commissioning, presenting and promoting First Nations artists from all over the world within the Biennale of Sydney program. The powerful new projection commissioned by the Fondation Cartier will display the works of two celebrated First Nations artists, Gail Mabo, and Nikau Hindin, exploring the ancient practices of celestial navigation. The Fondation Cartier and the Biennale of Sydney support the latest chapter of its free, nightly First Nations sails lighting, Badu Gili, on the Opera House's Bennelong sails.

ABOUT THE BIENNALE OF SYDNEY

The Biennale of Sydney is a leading international contemporary art event. It plays an indispensable role in Australia’s engagement with the world, and a meaningful role in the life of the nation. For almost 50 years, the Biennale has been a unifying force in the Australian arts sector, embedding boldly creative art exhibitions and experiences in the everyday life of Sydney and putting the artistic excellence of Australia front and centre on the world stage. The Biennale of Sydney has commissioned and presented exceptional works of art by more than 1900 national and international artists from more than 130 countries. The Biennale of Sydney is committed to free access for all.