Interspecies and Other Others exhibition opens August 26

Featuring 14 artists, Interspecies and Other Others is the world premiere of a new after dark exhibition curated by Kelli Alred, that will transform the gardens and architecture of Melbourne’s beloved and heritage-listed Abbotsford Convent.

Alongside newly commissioned, site-specific works from some of Australia’s leading contemporary artists including Abdul Abdullah, Megan Cope, Atlanta Eke and Lyndall Jones, Interspecies and Other Others features installations, performances and participatory events from artists of the calibre of Tony Albert to internationally recognised Yeo Siew Hua and Australian artist, Shan Turner-Carroll.

Composer and musician James Henry is known for his work with Indigenous communities reviving their languages through song. Henry with Michelle Mills will perform two songs, by Wurundjeri Elder Aunty Gail Smith and Michelle Mills, Bunjil-al Booeegigat and Ngarga Liwik, in Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung language live on opening night 26 August. This will be accompanied by a discussion with Mills who will talk about importance of Woi Wurrung language retention, along with a performance by First Nations dancers, Nhabu Togip (meaning ancient moves).

An outdoor projection area will also include the work of Zanny Begg, Karrabing Film Collective, Almagul Menlibayeva and Marianne Simnett. In addition, award-winning filmmaker, Sarah-Jane Woulahan has created a special series of short films that will be accessible online as part of the Interspecies and Other Others program, view Woulahan’s films here.

In a first for the Convent, this free exhibition will activate the precinct with a dynamic program of cutting-edge, otherworldly art including projection, sculpture, film, performance, light and soundscape. Interspecies and Other Others explores the human condition, our history and habitat, and offers audiences a unique night-time exploration of the Convent’s outdoor spaces, and unexplored nooks and crannies. The exhibition will include performances, quirky installations, photographic light boxes, projections, ephemeral artworks, and even a royal tennis inspired structure inhabiting the Sacred Heart Courtyard, all in dialogue with the landscape, architecture and facades.

This rich, precinct-wide program of artworks and happenings combine to make Interspecies and Other Others a special nocturnal journey, with surprising and compelling experiences awaiting within gardens, behind buildings and throughout the Convent grounds.

Interspecies and Other Others

26 August – 2 October 2022

From Wed to Sun, sunset to 10pm, free

More information at: interspecies.abbotsfordconvent.com.au

Image credits:

1. Edge of the Garden Zion, Shan Turner-Carroll (2020)

2. No place 1, Tony Albert, 2009