20th Biennale of Sydney

These days it's hard to find a weekend that isn't raining. Luckily, two weeks ago, my friend and I were able to pick a date were the skies were clear enough and it wasn't too cold. Off we went to Cockatoo Island where they were holding a part of the 20th Biennale of Sydney. In all my years living in Sydney (i.e. my entire life), I had never actually visited Cockatoo Island. Turns out, this place is incredible. The history behind everything there is enough to keep you wandering for a good chunk of the day.

Anyway, back to the art. I could definitely feel my inner fine-arts-uni-student-self resurface, deconstructing the meaning of each artwork. I've always enjoyed watching time-based art pieces and being completely mind-*bleeped* by the abstract ways in which the artist portrays his or her point.

My favourite artwork, however, was not a time-based piece. It was Emma McNally's work (one drawing picture above). Hers was a collection of cartographic drawings. I wish I could capture every minute detail that was in each of her drawings, but it must be seen in person. Before reading the description plaque, you could already imagine things like constellations and maps as being some of the inspiration just from looking at it. But these or not the only things. To quote the description from the Biennale's website, the work is:

"Reminiscent of detailed charts of constellations, diagrams of military bases, complex musical scores or extensive circuitry boards, McNally’s meticulously drafted, intuitive drawings are maps of a mindscape; wholly imagined and informed by her observation of complex systems and interest in science, technology, philosophy and music."

Beautiful, right?

Another artwork I thoroughly enjoyed was one created by one of the world's foremost choreographers, William Forsythe. His work, pictured above, was an interactive one where the public was allowed to dance through swinging plumb bobs suspended by string that swayed like pendulums. It all just seemed so poetic.

As you can tell by the rest of these images, we had such a great time purely exploring Cockatoo Island. I can imagine that coming here when there are no events on, it would be the perfect place for a photo shoot that compasses history, nature and structures reminiscent of an industrial site.

[Outfit]

Bomber Jacket: Topshop
T-shirt: Calvin Klein Jeans
Shorts: LINE UP
Shoes: Nike