SEE & BUY ART IN UNEXPECTED PLACES
In a world of increasing uncertainty, art offers a valuable platform for both artists and audiences to practice new ways of thinking and acting upon our changing circumstances.
I Came To See… is an ongoing series of exhibitions that showcase original, contemporary artwork in unexpected public spaces. The exhibitions are presented in unique temporary structures, accessible by the public at any time in a safe outdoor environment; providing new opportunities to actively participate in accessible cultural experiences whilst challenging the way people interact and engage with art.
PART 1
In May 2021, the team delivered the first instalment of I Came To See… which was developed in response to City of Sydney’s CBD Activation Program (supporting economic recovery by encouraging businesses and creatives to activate spaces in venues, the public domain and corporate locations with cultural programming), and Transport for NSW’s City Revitalisation Innovation Challenge.
A series of outdoor art exhibitions popped up around the CBD showcasing original contemporary artworks by emerging Australian artists. The aim was to reconnect the public with the cultural sector by bringing the independent art gallery experience outdoors, highlighting the importance of arts and culture in the city.
The exhibitions offered an opportunity for artists to gain exposure and connect with new audiences, and encouraged active engagement by the public, which is an increasingly important part of cultural consumption in the current climate.
The first instalment received positive feedback from community and industry with a continuation of the concept needed more than ever for the recovery and sustainability of the sector.
ACTIVATION PERIOD
1 May – 8 June 2021
LOCATIONS
Martin Place // Customs House // Barangaroo
CURATORS
Jackson Farley // Sebastian Henry-Jones // National Art School
ARTISTS
Aimee Gardyne // Amelia Skelton // Andriana Carney // Brett Anthony Moore // Bryan Foong // Caoife Power // Caroline Gasteen // Charles Levi // Chelsea Fuentes // Claire de Carteret // Daniel Bodey // Ebony Hickey // Ella Noah Bancroft // Eloise Morton // Emma Rani // Finnegan McGrath // Flin Sharp // Florentina Pergoleto // Francesca Zak // Helen Shelley // James P. Simon // Joanna Gambotto // Lauren O'Connor // Liam Taylor // Lili Montefiore // Lorilee Yang // Lucy Zaroyko // Mark Mailler // Mashara Wachjudy // Maya Barnstone // Mez Truskett // Mia Middleton // Mungo Howard // Neil Beedie // Nic Fern // Omar Raf Diallo // Sofiyah Ruqayah // Steph Tsimbourlas // Stuart Bailey // Victoria Stolz // Viola Nazario // Yiorgo Yiannopoulos // Zane Edwards // Zoe Toakley
We acknowledge the Gadigal of the Eora Nation as the traditional custodians of this place we now call Sydney.
Proudly funded by the
NSW Government in association with
City of Sydney
