Hung Out to Dry: Space, Memory and Domestic Laundry Practices

Overview

Laundry: everyone does it, albeit begrudgingly. Washing, drying and folding clothes, towels and sheets isn't really a fun activity — but, if you delve a little deeper, it is an interesting one.

Yes, we just said that one of the least liked household chores can be fascinating. Yes, we meant it. It's the history and significance of this routine task, including clothesline aesthetics, gendered labour and environmental sustainability, that intrigues — and forms the basis of Hung Out to Dry: Space, Memory and Domestic Laundry Practices at the UQ Art Museum.

More than just a pseudo-celebration of the humble Hills Hoist, although that's included as well, Hung Out to Dry takes a playful look at the act that inspires its name. Sixteen artworks by the likes of Chris Bennie, Bill Henson, Mari Hirata, Adrienne Kneebone, Tracey Moffatt, Georgie Roxby Smith and Arryn Snowball offer their spin, accompanied by an interactive installation charting the oral history of laundry around the world.

Washing your clothes might still be a drag, but you'll be thinking about it in a whole new way.

Image: Adrienne Kneebone - As rough as grass undies 2006/2015