ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Heap: 80 Artworks Buried Under Dirt at Sydney's Carriageworks for Festival of Dangerous Ideas

festival-fair · 2026-08-26

During the Festival of Dangerous Ideas (Fodi), the installation titled Heap converts the expansive foyer of Carriageworks in Sydney into an archaeological excavation site, showcasing 80 pieces from eight Australian artists concealed beneath dirt mounds. This weekend, attendees can participate in uncovering these artworks. Among the items is a suitcase hidden by a Hitachi earthmover and 25 tiles that detail a labor agreement between artist Sophie Penkethman-Young and her 3D printer, reflecting themes of labor and technology. Serving as the focal point of Fodi's lineup of panels and performances, Heap merges exhibition, installation, and participatory art, inviting public engagement while reinforcing the festival's commitment to challenging and stimulating programming.

Key facts

  • Heap is part of the Festival of Dangerous Ideas (Fodi).
  • It takes place in the cavernous foyer of Carriageworks in Sydney.
  • Features 80 artworks by eight Australian artists.
  • Artworks are buried under dirt and visitors will dig them up.
  • A Hitachi earthmover buries a suitcase in a mound of dirt.
  • Sophie Penkethman-Young created 25 tiles with a labour agreement text.
  • The tiles were made using a 3D printer.
  • Heap is the centrepiece of Fodi's program of panels and performances.

Entities

Artists

  • Sophie Penkethman-Young

Institutions

Locations

  • Sydney
  • Australia

Sources