Hidden curator Dr Kath Fries said there were loads of fascinating entries this year including a wall made from Rookwood soil with imprints of local animals and plants, and a dome structure full of fungi eating through material with viewing peepholes so visitors could observe the natural process of decomposition which takes place at Rookwood daily.
“One of the schools will also feature a tree covered in ‘nests’ made from sticks and natural fibres to depict how we create our homes and lives in the materials that we find around us,” she said.
“Whether you are drawn to the historical significance, personal stories or the evocative sense of place of Rookwood Cemetery, Hidden 2023 promises to be an engaging event.”
This year’s exhibition also includes the Stonemasons and Schools categories, augmenting the long-standing Sculptures section.
These additional categories will highlight creativity across generations, from school children and teenagers, to apprentices and professional artists.
“The Stonemasons category brings traditional hand-carving skills to the fore, while the Schools category provides a platform for budding young artists,” Dr Fries said.
Open from October 21 to November 19, entry is free and visitors can explore the exhibition daily from sunrise to sunset.
A complimentary informative audio tour and map are available, with a full-colour printed catalogue for sale to support restoration projects undertaken by the Friends of Rookwood.
To find out more or to take part in a heritage rose garden working bee on Wednesday, September 27, from 10am (no experience necessary), visit hiddeninrookwood.com.au or call 8575 8100.
Hidden exhibition to amaze, fascinate history, art lovers with new categories
LOVERS of art, history and nature have a lot to look forward to this October when Hidden Rookwood Sculptures 2023 returns to Australia’s largest cemetery – Rookwood – to celebrate its 13th anniversary.
