Vivid Sydney is just days away and there’s a palpable excitement in the air. The festival’s 2023 iteration promises to be its biggest yet and in line with its theme Vivid Sydney, Naturally, acclaimed Australian artist John Olsen’s dynamic paintings will light up the Opera House every single night of the festival. 15 of the legendary painter’s most famous works will be displayed on the Opera House sails from May 26 to June 17.
Lighting of the Sails 2023
Olsen’s work Salute to Five Bells was commissioned specifically for the Sydney Opera House’s Concert Hall Northern Foyer so the event fittingly honours the late artist on the Opera House’s 50th anniversary. Lighting of the Sails 2023 will be curated by Dr. Deborah Hart and creative technologists Curiious and has been titled Life Enlivened.
As an ode to the artist’s six-decade career and his endless fascination and love for Australian nature and landscape, visitors will get a glimpse of some of his finest works up close. Artworks that will be displayed on the sails include Sydney Sun (1965) from the National Gallery of Australia, Entrance to the Seaport of Desire (1964) from the Art Gallery of NSW and The Flood – towards Lake Eyre (2008-09) from the National Gallery of Victoria. Plus, Hanging Tree Frog (1979), Jacanas (1983) and Broken Egg and Summer Landscape, (1986-87) from his private collection will also feature.
Olsen passed away this April at the age of 95 but worked closely with the team to bring these 15 artworks to life on the Opera House sails. Get more information here.