Splashes of colour are creeping into Canberra’s city centre as preparation begins for DESIGN Canberra 2018, which launches in under a month. Artworks, tours, a field of balloons, design forums and pop-up bars are getting ready for installation for the ACT’s fastest growing festival, from 5-25 November. More than 150 events, exhibitions, talks, tours, markets, artist studios and open homes will be showcased at the festival for all interests and ages and most events are free.
The artwork Geometric Shadows – 12 Noon by Yanni Pounartzis, the first installation in the festival’s new City Art Program, is taking shape this week on the corner of Petrie Plaza and Bunda Street.
Pounartzis, a visual artist based in Canberra, has responded to this year’s festival theme of geometry, capturing a moment in time by turning shadows from buildings, signs and nature into geometric art.
“Yanni Pounartzis’ work brings lively colours into our urban environment. As Canberrans and visitors walk past to go to work, or shop, or catch up with friends at a cafe, the artwork invites viewers to take a second look and pay attention to the urban structures that go unnoticed in daily life,” said Rachael Coghlan CEO of Craft ACT and Artistic Director of DESIGN Canberra 2018.
City Art Program will enliven Civic and place the work of designers and artists front and centre, artworks will be installed in the coming weeks in the lead-up to the festival.
Other city highlights include the Museum of Possibilities – a playful art installation by Montreal-based artists Daily Tous Les Jours, which invites Canberrans to share their hopes and dreams for our city centre. It will transform City Hill into a field of balloons for one day only on Thursday 22 November. Festival goers will also be able to: explore Canberra’s inner city design heritage through CBD walking tours; relax after work at the Canberra Centre Design Bar or City Sessions pop-up bars.
