THE CULTURAL FOUNDATION AND VISUAL ARTS
In conjunction with our Cultural Foundation, the Alliance Française de Sydney regularly organises art events, openings, artists’ talks and exhibitions at the Media Centre. The Media Centre is located on level one of the building and hosts approximately 10 exhibitions per year showcasing the work of local artists.
2019 HIGHLIGHTS
At the beginning of 2019, we hosted a special event to coincide with the summer blockbuster exhibition at the Art Gallery of NSW; Masters of modern art from the Hermitage. Taking place at the gallery lecture hall, Assistant curator of European art Anne Gérard-Austin introduced some key works and provided an insightful glimpse into the process of research and curation.
In addition, we were delighted to host a beautiful exhibition of contemporary Australian Indigenous Art which occupied all floors of the Alliance Française de Sydney, curated by founder of Everywhere Arts and arts educator Benedicte Belzung. The Land is Talking...through the voice of Australian Aboriginal Artists included an opening ceremony with a special performance by Northern Territory artist Barayuwa Munƞgurr and guided visits throughout the month of December offered in both French and English.
Another standout exhibition included the photographic works of artist Craig Holmes, presented in partnership with Head On Photo Festival, displayed at the Alliance Française de Sydney Media Centre during the month of May. These consisted of an evocative series of black and white photographs presenting a unique insight into the daily rituals of Parisians travelling to and from work.
Other highlights includes the talk Monet Impressionism presented by Sydney University graduate and Francis Stuart Prize recipient Marie Chrétien. This lively discussion uncovered the enigma surrounding the iconic and pioneering painting Impression, Soleil levant by Claude Monet, which was recently exhibited at the National Gallery of Australia. Marie returned for a second time to deliver her fascinating talk Matisse and Picasso which explored the dynamic and porous relationship between these two pioneering artists ahead of the exhibition at the National Gallery of Australia.