MAC yapang transformed for Archibald-winner’s works
Published on 16 December 2022
Having the freedom to paint directly on the walls of the Museum of Art and Culture, yapang has inspired some truly off-the-wall creativity from one of Australia’s most acclaimed artists.
Archibald Prize-winner and eight-time finalist Wendy Sharpe has spent the past week transforming the MAC yapang gallery to create A Dance to the Music of Time, with dozens of her striking and colourful works on display.
“I’ve taken works from over 20 years and they’re in a continuous installation, where they become like one work,” Sharpe said.
“There is no absolutely specific story in it; it’s up to you to create your own.”
The exhibition features temporary paintings Sharpe has applied directly to the gallery’s walls, from splashes of blue poured from ceiling to floor to abstract depictions of the sculpture garden outside MAC yapang.
Sharpe said the opportunity to paint the gallery’s walls made for a unique experience – not only for visitors but for her as an artist.
“It’s a one-off,” she said.
“Being in a museum like this enables me to do special things like create this exciting experience, as opposed to just showing off individual works for someone to buy.”
“It also allows me to do some very creative and imaginative things, which really only an art museum like this would enable me to do.”
MAC yapang Curator Courtney Wagner said it was exciting to feature such an esteemed artist during the venue’s “blockbuster” summer season.
“Occurring in the holidays means the exhibition will be accessible to more visitors, which is so important given the ephemeral nature of the show,” she said.
The exhibition opens Friday evening, alongside Affection: Papunya Tula Women’s Art, a showcase of 50 Aboriginal artworks by women artists of the Papunya Tula Arts Centre in Central Australia.
Both are on display until 29 January. Sharpe will participate in a conversation about her works and career on Saturday, in a free event inside the MAP yapang gallery from 11am.
Bookings are essential. Go to mac.lakemac.com.au for more information.