Curated for the first time by Dr Kath Fries, the month-long exhibition includes a total of 58 submissions with 37 sculptures, 11 student entries and 10 short films.
As well as responding to the exhibition’s regular themes of history, culture, remembrance and love surrounding the Rookwood site, many of this year’s chosen works also explore the theme of immigration – communicating the journey of ancestors and shifts in cultural identity.
Intending to “trigger a reaction and spark conversation”, Dr Fries said the selection process for the 11th Hidden exhibition was driven by a connection between the artwork, audience and the space.
“Each artwork serves to enhance the unique features within the cemetery,” she said.
“The atmosphere and the way visitors encounter each work will make them notice things they wouldn’t normally.”
Rookwood General Cemetery CEO George Simpson said the calibre of expertise on the judging panel, which includes Nanette Orly, co-director of Cold Cuts Project Space in Petersham and Board Member of Runway Australian Experiment Art and well-known Sydney artist Koji Ryui, highlights its significance within the arts community.
“The event also attracts valuable support from local businesses and industry, enabling the exhibition to go from strength to strength,” he said.
Open from sunrise to sunset, Hidden is free, with the works strategically placed among historic monuments and architecture within Rookwood through until October 7.
For more information, visit hiddeninrookwood.com.au.
Hidden artwork to celebrate diversity
SHOWCASING a diverse range of sculptural techniques and styles, this year’s Hidden exhibition at Rookwood Cemetery was officially launched on Saturday.
