Brook Andrew Announces 2020 Biennale of Sydney Theme and Artists
Brook Andrew has made a significant mark as the first Indigenous Australian to serve as the artistic director for the Biennale of Sydney. He introduced the theme 'Nirin,' which means 'edge' in Wiradjuri, for the 2020 event. This biennale will celebrate First Nations peoples and ancient cultures, structured around seven main themes: Dhaagun (earth), Bagaray-Bang (healing), Yirawy-Dhuray (food connection), Gurray (transformation), Muriguwal Giiland (varied stories), Ngawaal-Guyungan (influential ideas), and Bila (river). Andrew described the experience as an inspiring journey filled with stories and grassroots practices, highlighting interconnectedness. The initial lineup showcases 38 artists, including notable names like Tony Albert and Maria Thereza Alves.
Key facts
- Brook Andrew is artistic director for the 2020 Biennale of Sydney.
- He is the first Australian of indigenous heritage in this role.
- The theme is 'Nirin', a Wiradjuri word meaning 'edge'.
- The biennale focuses on First Nations peoples and ancient cultures.
- Seven themes structure the biennale: Dhaagun, Bagaray-Bang, Yirawy-Dhuray, Gurray, Muriguwal Giiland, Ngawaal-Guyungan, Bila.
- 38 artists are on the preliminary list.
- The event is described as an inspirational journey driven by stories and grass-root practices.
Entities
Artists
- Brook Andrew
- Tony Albert
- Maria Thereza Alves
- Lhola Amira
- Sammy Baloji
- Huma Bhabha
- Blacktown Native Institution
- Anna Boghiguian
- Eric Bridgeman
- Victoria Santa Cruz
- Léuli Eshrãghi
- Jes Fan
- Nicholas Galanin
- Fátima Rodrigo Gonzales
- Lawrence Abu Hamdan
- Arthur Jafa
- Hannah Catherine Jones
- Bronwyn Katz
- Mayunkiki
- Kylie Kwong
- Barbara McGrady
- Ibrahim Mahama
- Teresa Margolles
- Misheck Masamvu
- Katarina Matiasek
- Jota Mombaça
- Prof Sir Zanele Muholi
- The Mulka Project
- SJ Norman
- Taqralik Partridge
- Laure Prouvost
- Lisa Reihana
- Latai Taumoepeau
- Gina Athena Ulysse
Institutions
- Biennale of Sydney
- Blacktown Native Institution
- The Mulka Project
Locations
- Sydney
- Australia