Ridiculous as it may sound, some of the most compelling on-screen moments of the past decade have been found in the simple 30-second commercial spots for Apple products. Think back, for example, to the excitement on the face of the deaf girl as she's finally able to use sign language on her mobile phone, or the hypnotic dancing silhouettes cutting loose to Jet's ridiculously catchy 'Are You Gonna Be My Girl'. Best of all, picture that deployed soldier on the distant battlefront, tearfully touching the screen just as his newborn son gently does the same from all the way back home. Like the products they were marketing, Apple ads tapped into the notion of selling ideas and emotions — not items — and $500 billion later it was pretty clear we liked what we saw. Because of that, though, one of the biggest challenges facing the Steve Jobs biopic Jobs was to simply be better than the ads for the products he invented, and on most fronts it was, unfortunately, unsuccessful. Not unlike 2010's The Social Network, the Jobs film tracks its protagonist's story from his college days through to his stewardship over what is now, economically, the largest company in the world. We're presented with an unflattering portrayal of the man whose extraordinary vision sat alongside his infamous temper, ego and capacity for cruelty, particularly in matters concerning close friends and family. Steve is played by Ashton Kutcher in a performance that impressively captures the tech legend's mannerisms and cadence. The problem, however, is that Jobs feels more like a movie about Apple than the man who founded it. Whilst we're presented with at least some of his highs and lows (the movie is at its best during those low points, most notably his dismissal by the Apple board), whenever the products rate a mention, they're given almost comical reverence; messianic machines bathed in ethereal light. There's no denying the Cult of Apple exists, but this film wasn't the place to indulge it, and when coupled with some serious omissions, such as Jobs's founding of Pixar, it's hard to not consider this biopic more Performa than performer. https://youtube.com/watch?v=FrvkCS0ZGPU
Clay Smith, a fusion artist, brings together the styles of modern and low-brow art, in its many entertaining and promotional forms, to create satirical and thought-provoking pieces. Two of his seminal series are coming together for one highly esteemed exhibition: Techknotopia vs Cultural Tempest. He looks at unravelling possibility, of foreign lands and unrecognisable characters, and two such collections that examine these ideas from varying angles will prove an entirely-immersive experience for art fans and plainly curious alike. Techknototopia has been dubbed, by Smith himself, as “digital Technology unfolding, un-folding like Alice falling down the rabbit hole”. He takes elements from the “gaming world”, where characters not unlike those of Wonderland are transported into this parallel universe, like pieces of an ever-changing puzzle. Cultural Tempest looks at a fresh-faced traveller’s experience with new surroundings on debut overseas explorations. Having been presented in overseas collections, plus many times over on home soil, Clay Smith’s art is well travelled and celebrated. Don’t miss your opportunity to see what the fuss is about.
The Growlers are bringing their sweet sounds all the way from their hometown Costa Mesa, California to Black Bear Lodge. This five-piece are no strangers to the stage as the lads have played gigs everywhere from London, Brazil and Coachella. The American quintet has played with the likes of The Black Keys, Dr. Dog, Devendra Banhart, Julian Casablancas and Night Beats. Along with being a bunch of attractive scruffy surfer dudes who all sport great hairstyles, The Growlers have a long list of quality psychedelic rock tracks. Bop along with the sunny sounds of Someday which not only shows off the band's lyrical ability but also their appreciation of the theatrical. On stage shows sometimes consist of crazy costumes and even crazier wigs. Other notable tracks to get you psyched for Wednesday night's show include 'One Million Lovers' and 'Wandering Eyes'. It's the boys' first time in Australia so head down to the bear's den and give them a warm welcome. Be sure to check out our chat with singer, Brooks Neilsen before seeing them live!
It is a truth universally acknowledged that classics of literature stand the test of time. There is no better example than a classic story, one with many an adaptation and growing audience, than Jane Austen’s masterpiece, Pride and Prejudice. When a highly desirable gentleman of great style and circumstance graces Netherfield Park, the greater township of Meryton and its eligible ladies spiral into frenzy. It is a tale of virtues and vices, following your heart or your head. A timeless classic, one which has been graced with various faces over its many, many years. The beautiful venue that is the Brisbane Arts Theatre fits this tale like a glove; it is one of Brisbane’s longest running theatre groups, and know the sacred bounds of traditional theatre. Your beloved tale of Elizabeth Bennet is in safe hands. There are an abundance of ticketing options available, so be sure to gather your likeminded gentlewomen for an evening of homage to the fair Mr. Darcy as intended to be seen: in the flesh.
If you're one of the many people who listed getting fit as a New Years resolution then lace up your joggers and head to the Resolution Run. Don't fret if you've already caved and opted for a sleep in over a morning jog, there is no judgement here and it's also never too late to start. The fun run begins at River Stage and continues to the Botanic Gardens. Meet the other runners at 6am for a 6.10am start. You can run, walk or crawl (depending on fitness levels) the track while Brisbane's super pretty scenery provides a great backdrop. What's more, you can feel great inside and out by supporting the Heart Foundation, the feature charity of the Resolution Run. Get your friends together and start the New Year in the way you intended, it will set the tone for a happy and healthy 2014. For entry details visit the Resolution Run website.
Paniyiri Festival turns the big three-five this year! That’s right, Australia’s biggest celebration of all things great and Greek is back again, and it’s ready for a party – and psst, you’re invited. What’s in store for you? On Friday, treat your tastebuds to the best honey puffs, moussaka and souvlaki this town has to offer, then take your derriere to the dancefloor and cut a rug Greek style. Yep, this means Zorba. Then go eat more honey puffs. Then drink some of the delicious Hellenic beverages they’ve got on offer. Ouzo? Don’t mind if I do-zo! Go do a little bit more Zorba. Olive eating competition? Already there. How do the fairground rides in the corner look? Safe? Just pay the five bucks and strap in. Oh… the haloumi doesn’t sit right in my stomach after all that. I think I’ve out-funned myself… take me home. Then when the Hellenic hangover’s gone, go back on Saturday and do it all over again.
Guess what’s all the rage in Hollywood these days? No, I don’t mean Botox. And no, I’m not talking about Oxy Cotin or Adderall or whatever prescription drugs people abuse these days. No, no no no. I am talking about the opera darling! Pleasing to the senses without having to go to rehab after wards, the opera theatre’s the latest and greatest hangout graced by lovely ladies such as Emmy Rossum and Chloë Sevigny. QPAC’s getting in on the action with its first production of the season, The Girl of the Golden West. Set amongst the rough-and-tumble of a Californian mining camp, this new production blends all the action, romance and pace of the greatest Hollywood westerns with a treasure trove of Puccini’s melodies. It’s the perfect opportunity to dress up pretty and drink some nice champagne while watching an amazing show – and it’s all in the name of getting cultured a la Sevigny.
For those of you concerned that you might be falling into the deadly throes of old age and abandon with every year that passes, never fear because the good folks at Vinyl are bringing back Nanna Nights. Nanna Nights means every second Wednesday, Vinyl will combine the very best things in life into a night that can only be best described as relaxed. There’s just something about a top-notch acoustic repertoire, a collection of board games, great food, alcohol and company that just can’t seem to be beat. Next up on Nanna Nighs' musical agenda is The Rocketsmith's front man and all round talented and cheeky dude Dom Miller. It’s like a game: Start at Nanna Nights for 50 points, then proceed to The Hi-Fi for more musical debauchery and an additional 50 points. Everyone’s a winner! And who doesn’t like hearing a mini wooden tower collapse unto itself with the sweet sound of acoustic tunes playing in the background? I’m expecting chess, Connect 4, Jenga and an abundance of old school games for the 90s kids out there. Battleship, anyone?
Are you a radar detector? What does that even mean? Does it matter? Darwin Deez is in town! If you've forgotten already, Mr Smith (seriously) was here for Parklife last year and is back for a headline Australian tour. The man/machine/lead singer describes Darwin Deez's sound as a combination of 'Thriller and Dismemberment Plan' and is reminiscent of The Strokes, Beck, MGMT and The Flaming Lips. New York produces some pretty amazing talent, and it did not surpass this young musician. He got his big break playing shows at the legendary Sidewalk Cafe, similarly responsible for launching the career of Regina Spektor. Darwin has also been a fixture on Australian radio, breaking into the semi-prestigious Triple J Hottest 100 with 'Radar Detector' coming in at number 28. You can expect an indie-pop dance fest at a Darwin Deez show; a magical hybrid of energy and positivity, most often shown through the band's spontaneous urge to break boy band-esque dance moves. Radar detector expectation: pretty damn good. See Darwin Deez for yourself at The Zoo on Thursday 5 May.
Children Collide are the kind of band that don’t quietly tap-tap-tap at your door and wait for you to pay them some attention. No, this Melbourne trio are the kind that’ll kick the door clean off its hinges and barge in, filling your house/ears/brain with their frantic, raucous garage rock. They didn’t have to do that though (rude! Who’s gonna fix that door now?) as their tunes have been welcomed with open arms from all over – their singles 'Jellylegs' and 'My Eagle' both made it onto the triple j Hottest 100 last year. They've received rave reviews for their sophomore album Theory of Everything and they kept crowds enthralled during their recent performances at Big Day Out and Falls Festival. So it probably comes as no surprise that their upcoming Zoo gig has sold out well before their arrival to the Sunshine State – oh noes! If you were quick enough to get a ticket you’re one of the lucky ones able to catch Children Collide’s energetic performance in the flesh. If you missed out, don’t go knocking the door down! If you get to the Zoo early there will be a couple of tickets available at the door.
It can get pretty lonely working as a freelancer in a creative field. Sometimes it'd be nice to have a lunch date with someone. Inspire and bounce a few ideas off one another. Or have the ability to recount 'bitch and moan' stories with fellow freelancers. Maybe share a few 'in' jokes about the highs and lows of your shared field. Collaborate and all that jazz. Well creative networking group Sprinkl has heard the cries of creatives all around Brisbane and are aiming to solve their woes with some short and sweet meet ups. Aimed at creatives and freelancers, Sprinkl is ideal for helping industry insiders build their creative networks, aiding creative collaboration and bringing fellow creatives together. Designers, Photographers, Writers, Musicians, Animators, Artists - seasoned, breakthrough, industry and students are all welcome. Afraid of being judged by your business card or getting cornered into a pyramid scheme? Don't be. Sprinkl is more about embracing and showcasing local creative talent. At past meet ups they have held The Sprinkl LIVE Design-Off, where two designers are given one brief and an impossible one hour deadline to duel it out for creative supremacy. You can see some of the fun and talented results here. See? Looks like fun.
Anyone who says science/maths and art don’t go together is an idiot. Duh, otherwise how did The Da Vinci Code work? Dan Brown totes owes his success to old mate Leo (and maybe to the various groups he manages to offend in the novel, but that’s a discussion for another article). I guess old mate Brown’s not the best example of how science and art go together. A better one would be The Absence of Alice, a series of exhibitions by Svenja Kratz. The Absence of Alice and the bone gardens is the seventh instance of Kratz’s series, exploring cycles of life and death and the complex relationships between humans and other organisms through sculpture and a other new media works, which incorporate a variety of living, preserved and transformed organisms. These works reflect on Kratz’s experiences working within the area of cell and tissue culture. Robert Langdon’s got nothing on Kratz – see what The Absence of Alice is all about on Tuesday night. Image credit: Svenja Kratz
At one point – if, only for a moment – we’ve all dreamt of something we’re not going to see while living in Brisbane: snow-capped summits, a wintery peak at our doorstep. Sure, we’ve got Mt. Glorious, but little G’s just a speck in comparison to our beautiful world’s mountainous bigwigs – you’ve got your Everests, your K2s, your Lhotses spanning from the Himalayas to the Karakoram. If we ever wanted to experience these summits we’d have to fork out the benjamins (on credit) and take off to Nepal or stretch your imagination to Mt. Doona in your living room. For somewhere that’s perfectly in between, go to Grid North – Boxcopy’s latest installation at The Block. Grid North utilizing the grid datum of the existing site at The Block, taking visitors on a mountainous trek without ever leaving Brisbane. This snowy installation’s only at The Block for two weeks, so squeeze into your hiking boots, rug up warm and make the trek to QUT’s Cultural Precinct soon.
What do The Grates, Kisschasy, Faker, Groovin’ the Moo, a DEADLY award, Triple J Unearthed and Cairns have in common? Well, they have all had the pleasure of being a stepping stone on the journey of making The Medics. After a gig at the Old Museum, the group is heading to The Zoo this Thursday to headline their first Australian tour with supporting acts The Honey Month and Babaganouj to celebrate their upcoming debut album. If you haven’t heard of them before, their sounds have been described by Beat Magazine as early Radiohead but in the best possible way. Their emotive song writing and epic build-ups and breakdowns will have you begging for more and scrounging iTunes for their EPs straight after the gig, if not whilst it’s happening (they’re there! Don’t worry, I checked). With such an amazing history of supporting some of this country’s best indie bands it is a wonder why you haven’t already pre-purchased your ticket. But if you haven’t, don’t fret! Tickets will only be $10 on the door. What else are you going to do, watch Masterchef?
This is going to make me one unpopular person (especially on ye olde internet, which is at least 90% feline pictures/videos) but I’m going to say it: I hate cats. Or rather, they hate me. The thing is, whenever I go to a cat-loving friend’s house I’m normally forced to pretend like I enjoy their company and lean in for a pat,. The cat senses my fear and lashes out, but purrs up to everyone else while I’m left a barely surviving, bleeding mess in the corner. What is that, if not hate? While the rivalry between felines and me is still strong, there is one cool cat that I am quite fond of: Nine Lives. Over the past couple of years the gallery’s churned out quality exhibition after quality exhibition, providing visionary delights in art and tasty delights in beer – for free. Good kitty. Now they deserve a treat, too, all you’ve got to do is Feed The Cat. Ten bucks gives the gallery the support it needs and gets you into the Zoo for a night of good old fashioned feline fun – minus the claws. Mitzi, Tiger Beams, Little Casino, Saw Tooth and more round off a lineup that’s going to have you purring all night. Leave your ailurophobia at the door.
Art vs Science - let's think about it. Science: noun: The intellectual and practical activity encompassing the systematic study of the structure and behaviour of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment. Art: noun: The expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power. If the definitions don't seem to help all that much you might find solace in the synthy-crunchy-insistent-electro-pop of this Sydney three-piece. Recently ascending to platinum heights on the back of their self-titled debut EP, their second album The Experiment has also garnered wide appreciation and made ears happy both here and abroad. The first tour since their return from the US, Art vs Science will take to the stage at the Tivoli, supported by the big-beats and high-flying vocals of Strange Talk. It's enough to make Galileo and Picasso friends.
Everyone loves to peruse Etsy; scrolling through pages and pages of handmade skirts and handbags, only to find it's 4am on a Sunday morning and you don't have the money for postage. Don't get down on your knitted sweater-self, you soon could have the feather brooch or lego necklace of your dreams before the weekend's over. On Saturday and Sunday, the Old Museum will transform into a wonderland of DIY crafts and knick-knacks, all ready for your perusal. You can take full bragging rights when you were the first to discover and purchase pieces from some of Australia and NZ newest craftspeople. And who doesn't love a one-off? Maybe your 12 year old Supre-loving self, but not your reinvented indie self, oh no. You'll also be privy to the music of locals Winter Solstice and Bity Booker, and the promise of a garden bar. The Old Museum is only a hop, skip and a handsewn jumper away from wherever you were the night before, even if it was Etsy. If that doesn’t get you erasing hangover plans this weekend, maybe you cannot be pleased? Go forth this Saturday and Sunday and get yourself the felt shoes your feet legitimately need.
For a long time, my friends and I have not-so-secretly wished we were in a retirement village instead of finishing high school/working at Generic Retail Store or Government Job/writing uni essays/living the Hard Life. Retirees seem to just have great lives, you know? They live in a community with all their friends, play mah jong (undeniably the best board game ever), and for the most part, get to sit around and chew the fat all day. Hell, at the ripe age of 20 I still obnoxiously want that lifestyle, though deep down I know I have to “earn it” through decades of hard work, buying a house and maybe even pushing out a kid or two. In the meantime, though, I can settle for Nanna Nights. Nanna Nights at Vinyl is not a new thing; in fact, it’s been kicking around for a little while now, providing that perfect mid-week musical hit you’ve been craving from local and interstate acts, while keeping your kidneys warm with its $15 Roast n’ Red special – just like Nanna would like. It’s finally having its official launch this Wednesday, with the help of The Gin Club’s Ben Salter, plus a couple of his friends. If you’re like me and prematurely dreaming of your senior’s card, or if you just like good food and music on a Wednesday, then Nanna Nights is where it’s at. I’ll be the one setting up the mah jong tiles.
The difference between the Southern Cross covered, singlet-donning, fluro short-shorts wearing idiot ‘Australians’ at the Fox and Torres Strait Islanders is that Torres Strait Islanders are, you know, actual Australians – and they don’t need to don a crappy tat to prove it. That’s why it’s fair to say that their culture and history deserves the four-month celebration being hosted by Brisbane’s Cultural Centre. Among exhibitions and displays at the State Library, the Museum and QPAC, GoMA will be showcasing a great selection of new and old Torres Strait Islander artwork. The display, called Land, Sea and Sky, will focus specifically on those three nouns, their significance to the Torres Strait Islander people and the influence they have on their artwork. The display that opens this Friday will use film, print, objects including ceramics and dance objects, all with the aim to not only strengthen the grip Torres Straight Islanders have on their culture but also to expose that rich and diverse culture to a much wider audience. So if you’re dry reaching at the thought of Toohey’s New and horrible $2 steaks, maybe visit Land, Sea and Sky this week and make your mother proud. Image credit: 'Dugong and baby' by Dennis Nona, via ABC
What happens when you (metaphorically) mix one part dubstep, one part classical, one part house and one part post-rock in a gigantic music bowl and feed the goods to three dudes from Sydney? Yeah, you’re right, you’d get Seekae. You are so good at Donna Hay electronica! If you’ve never heard Seekae, it would seem that introducing those four very contrasting genres and turning them into one is a very strange thing to do, but Seekae make it work oh so well and have received mountains of acclaim for their 2008 debut album, The Sounds of Trees Falling On People. Three years later they’ve succeeded yet again with their sophomore album, +Dome, and they wanna share the love with you with their +Dome tour. Brisbane’s the first stop for the East Coast tour, so put on your finest duds, get your hair did (hey, they did it for you!) and head down to Woodland on Friday to hear Sydney’s finest live electronic offerings before everyone else. While you’re at it, bake them some cookies too, Indie MasterChef. They totally deserve it!
Lets not judge each other on this one guys. You can all get high and mighty about your highbrow taste in music, but I know deep down you enjoy a bit of Snoop-da-loop. I've seen you dancing to Nelly's 'Hot in Here' at 3am in the morning and let's face it – we all know the words to Timberland's grammatically challenged 'Way I are,' so don't even bother pretending otherwise. You shouldn't be embarrassed about it. I'm not. Be proud that you can appreciate a good tongue twisting wrap and get excited about urban music festival Supafest. I know I am. After a long festival season that featured acts most of us have already seen, Supafest is offering up a whole other kettle of fish by the way of Snoop Dogg, Timberland, Nelly, Busta Rhyms, Ciara, Fat Joe (who is visiting Australia for the first time) The Game, Keri Hilson, and T Pain. Yes T Pain! Maybe he'll be on a boat – who knows. Maybe Keri Hilson and Timberland will perform a few duets together – that'd be pretty awesome. Maybe Snoop Dogg will be wearing piggytail plaits – by Jo I hope so! Start practicing your 'Drop it like its hot' tongue clicks now.
The nights are cooler, the mosquitoes have eased up and hopefully the rain will hold off for awhile because Openair Cinema is back in Brisbane. After screening movies on a rooftop in Melbourne and a beach in Sydney, it's now Brisbane's turn to play host to Openair Cinema. The travelling cinema is set to make itself at home amongst the lush greenery at South Bank Parkland's Rainforest Green, so get ready for some balmy, peaceful autumn nights underneath the moon and the silver screen. In keeping with previous years, the Brisbane leg of the Openair tour will once again showcase both international movies and local musical talent. Previous pre-movie performances have included artists such as Dan Parsons, Tara Simmons and The Little Stevies, and this year a whole breed of new up-and-coming acoustic acts are set to take to the Sunset Stage. A selection of tasty gourmet food and frosty beverages from the licensed bar will also be available to enjoy each night. This year's film schedule is a mixed bag of new blockbusters, rom-coms, Oscar winning performances and cult classics to keep just about everyone enthused. Our picks? Watching Black Swan outside at night is bound to increase the thrill, When Harry Met Sally is the classically cliched date movie, while The Never Ending Story and Labyrinth are must-sees for those who are keen to revisit their childhoods via the big screen.
Bliss n Eso could never be accused of being underground. For the last 12 months, it has been a non-stop hip hop showdown for the band; a #1 ARIA debut, going platinum, touring internationally and rocking the main stage at Big Day Out. Even though they have been in yo face, they are hardly annoying: the lovable Sydney boys are still rounding up sold-out audiences Australia-wide. If, like me, Aussie hip hop isn't normally your thing, you'll still feel the love at a Bliss n Eso show. The vibe is electric and the crowd participation brings the house down. Also, who can resist a sing-a-long to crowd favourites Sea is Rising and Addicted? The Aussie patriotism and douchebag cliches that deter many are hardly noticeable. You'll be too busy jumping up and down to give a damn if the guy next to you has a southern cross on his neck! Despite dropping their latest album and this tour's namesake, Running on Air, almost a year ago, Bliss N Eso definitely haven't run out of puff, they will be blowing into town at Riverstage this Friday.
There are way too many festivals around these days. What pair of shredded denim short shorts and flimsy excuse for a singlet (applicable to both lads and ladies) will I wear to Big Day Out/Creamfields/Summadayze/Stereosonic? Same goes for club nights. What’s that, another Thursday student night? Another rendition of the classic Sunday Sesh? I dunno if you’ve noticed it yet, but I’m pretty tired of all these washed up and recycled versions of exactly the same damn thing. Wouldn’t it be nice if there was some kind of medium between the two tired concepts? Ah, but there is! And it comes in the form of Track & Field – a new boutique (that means it’s fancy) music event that’s coming to The Old Museum for the first time this Saturday. Lying somewhere in the void between music festival and club night, Track & Field will be held several times a year. First off the marks are Last Dinosaurs, Ball Park Music, The Belligerents and The Jungle Giants, with DJ sets from Hungry Kids of Hungary, The John Steel Singers and The Honey Month. Track & Field – it’s on this Saturday! Leave the festival gear and drink cards at home.
Head to Alhambra on student night Thursdays for a night you'll be raving about. Lambda is getting a facelift, with blacklights and rave tunes, all you need to do is dress for a big night, indulge in the UV face painting and soak up the enveloping tunes. If you aren't already sold, your friends The Delta Riggs will be blowing the roof off the rave cave with their psychedelicious garage tunes, accompanied by The Walking Who and Little Odessa, plus a splattering of DJ guests. Students should take advantage of the discount that comes with flashing your student card at the door. Don't be too fashionable about your lateness; this party will definitely be starting early. https://youtube.com/watch?v=5IXKnpwyVTM
Some people would argue that all a creative arts degree gives students is the fashion taste to stand behind a coffee machine. And sure, there may be an almost impossible to ignore relationship between the astounding number of cafes we have in Brisbane and the number of creative arts students who consider their degree a diploma in café aesthetics, thus reason enough to start one. But here in Queensland, the hopeful state, we’ve got more than enough reason to invest faith in this year’s talented graduating Griffith design students and hope they go on to make great art and not an okay latte. Crossover is the Queensland College of Art Design Graduate Exhibition 2013 and it promises to showcase it’s finest talents that emerged from years of studying what they know best – design and art. An ever evolving artform, this event aims to shed a little light on the current understanding of design and a explosively engaging manner – to expect anything boring from design students is plain ignorant. The showcase will be held for one night at the cosy Ship Inn on South Bank, kicking off at 5.30pm. Pop along if you’re interested in design, a student or just want a little affirmation that this year’s design graduates will be pulling themselves back from the abyss of cuffed jeans and coffee, and making good in a far more appropriate field.
Head along to The Block for an evening of complete immersion, an ethereal experience that will engage and inform you about the medium, by the medium. Sans Faute is a demonstration of how contemporary Chinese society and culture has come to be through technology. Interactive environments and video installations will guide your senses as you discover how similar Western and Chinese means of communication are, where technology is bridging divides and offering a mutual place of understanding, enjoyment, expression and growth. This exhibition is presented in unison by IDAProjects, Platform China and QUT Creative Industries Precinct, where you will find the evening’s venue. It is supported by the Queensland Confucius Institute. The celebrations on the opening night will feature the talents of Dropbear, presenting a special DJ and VJ performance. No need to book or purchase entry – head to QUT for a free and freeing experience.
Peer into worlds you mightn't look at otherwise at QUT Art Museum's latest exhibition. Focusing on documentary photography, this showcase is all about examining society's fringes — whether snapping London's skinhead subculture in the 70s, stepping into Egyptian neighbourhoods during the Arab Spring, exploring the minutiae of mental treatment facilities and delving into Brisbane's 90s club scene. Displaying until Sunday, April 28, Exchange Value features 11 Australian and international photographers, all of whom bring thought-provoking and illuminating pieces to the Art Museum's walls. Among the artists included are Queensland's own Kim Guthrie, Mick Richards, Leah King-Smith and Raphaela Rosella; Gavin Watson and Simon Terrill from the UK; and Bieke Depoorter from Belgium. While entry is free, the George Street venue is also offering a two-for-one deal — two exhibitions at the same time, that is. Displaying at the same time is In Focus: Blind Photography, which features work from nine international blind and partially sighted photographers. Image: Atong Atem, Makour, 2018, C type print, 84.1 x 59.4cm.
Tibet is the type of place everyone wants to visit — and the kind of destination few of us will actually make it to. Don't worry, the Festival of Tibet offers up the next best thing. It'll either help ease the pain of not jumping on a plane, or make you book a ticket overseas as soon as you can. Learning how to practice meditation, paint, whip up momos, do yoga and make sand mandalas, all Tibetan-style, will do that of course. And there's more where that came from. For the 11th year running, the event celebrates the resilience and optimism of a people and culture under threat through a showcase of the country's way of life. Hitting up Brisbane Powerhouse from Friday, April 26 to Sunday, April 28, that includes 1000 Stories, a performance art piece that combines live painting with a live score, plus a night of songs and tales all about the country. Or, head along to discussions about Tibetan nomads and their traditional way of life, as well as using compassion as a guiding principle. Image: Festival of Tibet.
What do you do when wild weather hits, Brisbanites? Watch the radar to see just when and where it'll strike? Stay glued to your couch? Come up with a new festival of contemporary dance? The latter was Kate Usher and Glyn Roberts's answer in 2017, and after a successful first two outings, their venture is returning for a third time in 2019. Yes, things are about to get stormy on the stage instead of in the sky again (although, given the time of year, the latter is still likely to happen as well). From March 30 to April 7, SUPERCELL: Festival of Contemporary Dance Brisbane will take over Brisbane Powerhouse and other locations around town for a repeat bout of frenetic footsteps. Celebrating Queensland's place in the dance world, the festival brings together local and international artists, performances, workshops and conversations. Highlights include the contemplation of time that is Lucy Guerin's Helpmann-winning Split, a night of short works from Hong Kong, and the sci-fi inspired Jupiter Orbiting — as well as a big screen exploration of dance on screen. Image: Gregory Lorenzutti
When Green Beacon Brewing Co opened its doors back in 2013, few could've known the yeasty, tasty joy that would follow. Actually, that's not true. Predicting that a brewery in Newstead was going to be a hit — well, that can't have been all that difficult. Now, six years later, it's doing what every brewery is obliged to do on such an occasion, aka throwing a massive birthday bash. Come 11am on January 26, it'll be marking the occasion in style, aka with drinks and a damn fine time. That's what the Beacon does every January; however this year's shindig is a little different. Dubbed Daylight Lockdown, it's not actually taking place at its home base, but rather in a warehouse at 22 Bailey Street in West End. This takeover party will feature a sneak peek of GB's latest Milkshake IPA release, plus a street art extravaganza. In-between sips, you'll watch some of Brisbane's best turn the space into an open-air gallery. The T-Shirt Mill will also be onsite, printing shirts with the same images that will be painted all over the walls — so you'll get quite the unique souvenir. Tickets are on sale now, and your $5 entry fee will go to local non-profit Micah Projects, which helps people in need. So will the container refunds that GB will nab from all the brews consumed across the day.
You can never have too much greenery in your life, both inside and outside your house. And, whether you're decking out your interiors or setting up a luxe outdoor hangout zone, you can never have too many homewares either. At least that's what you'll keep telling yourself while you're browsing around The Home Collective, with northside market offering up an array of plants, pots, furniture, cushions, art and more. If you're keen for a sneak peek, or some design inspiration, check out the event's Instagram page. That'll motivate you to head along, we're certain Taking place in Wavell Heights from 9am to 1pm on Sunday, March 3, the market will kit out your abode with plenty of choices, with more than 50 stalls ready for you to peruse. Sure, there's an excuse to boost your garden and homewares cred every weekend in Brissie, or so it seems, but you just can't have to much of a good thing.
Last Christmas, VEND Marketplace helped you deck your halls with all types of greenery, and it isn't stopping there. The northside spot is now adding a new space dedicated to plants, and it's launching with a huge opening weekend. To welcome the Greenhouse, as the new area is aptly known, you'll want to drop by from 9am on either Saturday, February 9 or Sunday, February 10. The 250-square-metre space will become an indoor garden, so get ready to take a few green babies home with you — and yes, we know you're already thinking about succulents, cacti, indoor plants, hanging plants and more. For the opening shindig, there'll also be a pop-up bar slinging mojitos, food trucks serving up tasty bites, lawn games to play and free plants on offer. If you're taking along little nature lovers, they'll find face painting and a garden treasure hunt as well.
Prepare to live out your Wet Hot American Summer dreams, Brisbanites — again. This Brissie autumn just got a whole lot better thanks to the eagerly awaited return of one of the best new events of the past few years. Yes, Death Valley Fun Camp is rolling out another year of back-to-nature mayhem. You don't just head to the picturesque Lake Moogerah, splash around, sing around the campfire, toast marshmallows and sleep under the stars at DVFC, although they're definitely on the agenda. From May 26 to 27, you also take a break from devices, status updates and technology in general during a weekend of crafts, food, drink, tunes, good ol' fashioned human connection and fun put together by Southside Tea Room, Death Valley and The Grates' duo John Paterson and Patience Hodgson. Keen for ziplining, kayaking, swimming, archery, pinata making, cupcake piping, rediscovering the lost of art letter writing and cooking up a storm on the open fire? You will be here. Or, have fun with some of SSTR's favourite events — Plaster Fun House and Disney Karaoke — in the great outdoors, dance the night away at a Late Night Disco and tell ghost stories when you're all tucked in. Meals-wise, you'll feast on three squares cooked up by Lucky Egg's Jacob Knauth and grab a midnight snack at the on-site tuckshop. And when it comes to refreshing beverages, expect to down beer and cider from Young Henrys — plus a camp cocktail that features The Bucha of Byron's kombucha. Tickets, which include accommodation, food, activities, t-shirt, s'mores, and your choice of a bunk or campsite, go on sale at 9am on March 15 for $189. For an extra $79, all of your tipples will also be taken care of, and you'll even get a take-home enamel mug as a souvenir. Plus, you'll be helping a good cause, as profits from the food and drink will go to Kids Help Line. Image: Alana Potts.
Feel so down, Brisbane? Feel left out? Don't know why you keep walking for miles? People, they don't understand — but The Foundry does. On February 7 from 9pm, the Valley venue is throwing a 2000s indie party so you can dance away your worries. Named after The Strokes track, you can expect plenty of their tunes to get a spin at Last Nite, with DJ Clarktic Monkeys, DJ Gabeyshambles and DJ Lykke Leach on music duties. As for the rest of their picks, expect to party like it's 2009 — and the entire decade prior. That means everything from the Arctic Monkeys to the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, plus the likes of Daft Punk, LCD Soundsystem, Phoenix, The Killers, The Shins, The White Stripes and Vampire Weekend in between. Entry is free, which means that all you need to do is clear your Thursday evening, show up and prepare for a dose of nostalgia in the best possible way.
It's a pretty clever move — and one that probably made you think about this event more than you might've otherwise. Rather than just calling the celebration of New Zealand's finest craft beers what it really is (aka a boozefest), the powers that be have labelled it a symposium. That means that you can feel like you're partaking in something scholarly as you're sipping on brews from across the ditch. Given that you'll be able to sample a whole host of beverages you probably haven't come across before, there really is an educational side to it. In Brisbane, three places are getting in on the action: Bloodhound Bar, Saccharomyces Beer Cafe and Tippler's Tap. Each will offer up their own take on the event, plus their own selection of world-class NZ brews, on their own days. Basically, whichever you pick you're in for an afternoon and evening of themed, informative fun — or several. The fun kicks off on February 6 for Waitangi Day, which really couldn't be any more appropriate, and runs until February 11.
UPDATE, December 7, 2020: Game Night is available to stream via Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Amazon Video. Game Night is a comedy of such extreme highs and lows, if you plotted it on a graph it would look like the EKG of a heart attack victim. It's a film with some outstanding moments, as well as some truly awful ones. It's got terrific characters alongside characters so thin and underdeveloped they barely feel like characters at all. It takes a familiar setup, only to dispense with it far sooner than you'd expect. It is, in short, an epic mixed bag, one that some will regard as a disappointing film with redeeming qualities, and others as a great farce let down by its weaker moments. Neither perspective is strictly unfair, but the latter perhaps feels closer to the mark – especially since the film never pretends to be anything more than what it is. Game Night is directed by John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein, the same duo responsible for both the awful Vacation reboot and the surprisingly funny Horrible Bosses series. It stars Jason Bateman and Rachel McAdams as Max and Annie, two competitive trivia nerds who fall in love via their mutual love of games and who, once married, host regular game nights for their friends (Lamorne Morris, Billy Magnussen and Kylie Bunbury). Things go awry, however, when Max's older, more handsome and definitely more successful brother Brooks (Friday Night Lights star Kyle Chandler) returns home and raises the stakes by hosting a kidnap game in the vein of a murder-mystery night. The twist? Brooks gets kidnapped for real right in front of them and the players have absolutely no idea. The scenes that follow centre almost exclusively on that easy source of dramatic irony, with the characters bumbling around absent any idea of how much danger they're in. But, as we mentioned above, Game Night shows its cards on that front before things get too tired, and instead invents newer, fresher story threads to carry things forward. Performance wise it's all very familiar territory for Bateman, playing the outwardly-polite, inwardly-screaming suburbanite he's inhabited ever since Arrested Development. McAdams is similarly likeable if also largely unchallenged, saving her best stuff for the film's few (relatively) serious moments. We also get some fun cameos from the likes of Danny Huston, Michael C. Hall and Sharon Horgan – although the scene-stealer award goes to Jesse Plemons, whose creepy neighbour character lands a near-perfect laugh-per-line scorecard. At its best, Game Night is laugh out loud funny, subverting some classic comedy tropes and delivering scores of killer one-liners. On the flip-side, its secondary characters are flat and underwritten (Magnussen's in particular), throwing down the kinds of punchlines you can see coming a mile off. Even so, it's probably one of the better Hollywood black comedies we've seen in the last few years, and ultimately entertains enough to justify the price of admission. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fNtLIcyjsnI
Put down your croquet mallet, plaster on your best game show host smile and grab a slushie: it's Heathers' dance party time, again. For the tenth time, the fun-loving folks at Black Bear Lodge are celebrating one of the most very films of the '80s once more, and the whole decade in general of course. Big hair, blazers with shoulder pads and giant red scrunchies are a must. Complaining about everyone you know called Heather — that's optional. Whether you channel your inner Veronica or JD, or broaden your remit to other cult flicks of the era, you certainly won't lack in fashion inspiration in what will definitely be a night of big fun. The party's DJs won't lack in ace retro tracks to spin, either. Whatever will be, will be, after all. So, what's the regular event's damage? It's free, it starts at 11pm, and drinking blue beverages isn't recommended. Be there, or be a pillowcase — or be jealous much.
Forget worms — the early bird gets gourmet bites to eat, farm-fresh produce to line the cupboards, and an enjoyable morning of browsing and shopping at Milton Markets. Every Sunday morning from 6am — and 7am in winter — more than 80 stalls descend upon the corner of Cribb and Little Cribb streets in the inner western suburb to sell tasty wares. From whenever you feel like waking up until midday, you can wander through massive fig trees to join them. With a new seating area part of the fun in 2018, the Milton Markets know that you probably have a hankering for a few things, and they're set to deliver. If duck egg pasta, Dutch syrup waffles, artisan honey and handmade goats cheese gets your stomach grumbling, you can stock up here. Don't worry if all of the above sounds familiar, too — and not just because you've been to a market around town before. In fact, if you went to the Red Hill Farmers Markets when they were up and running, you know what you're in for. Milton became the new site (and provided the new name) for the local favourites in early 2016.
Yayoi Kusama's dots might seem like they go on forever; however Life is the Heart of a Rainbow has an end date at the Gallery of Modern Art. Sadly, come February 12, the Japanese artist's wonders will leave South Brisbane — but you can bet GOMA is going all out on February 11. Celebrating the exhibition's last day involves more than just staring up at floating orbs, peering at pumpkins, looking into mirrored boxes and entering darkened rooms, although we highly recommend all of the above. Also on offer are tours, talks, classes and a film to really make you go dotty. From midday, head by the Kusama Art Therapy Lounge to get creative, then embark on a guided Rainbow Tour at 1pm. Next up is a talk about the artist at 2.30pm, followed by a screening of Near Equal Kusama Yayoi – I Adore Myself at 3pm.
There's no such thing as 'standard' jazz. That's true of every style of music, but the genre's penchant for experimentation and improvisation makes the statement particularly accurate. And if it's inventive sounds that you're after, Brisbane's latest jazz night is here to treat your eardrums to a host of tunes you probably haven't heard before. Jazz Is Dead is Barbara's Tuesday evening jazzfest, filling the Fortitude Valley bar with sweet, sweet music from 7pm until midnight every week. It's particularly focusing on tracks and artists that breathe new life into the style, so jazz isn't really dead here — it's reborn. Running until the end of July, the regular event has also enlisted a heap of talented folks to help, many of whom have crossed paths in various local bands. The Biology of Plants' Helen Svoboda, Pink Matter's Megan Christensen and Kerry Raywood, The Grates' Jack Richardson and Ritchie Daniell, and Astro Travellers' Sam Maguire, Rohan Seekers and Jessi Lumbar are just some of the names on the bill, all set to share their jazzy highlights.
Tuesdays: no one loves them. The weekend's fun seems like a distant memory, there's more days left in the working week than anyone wants to accept, and the 9-to-5 really is seeming like a grind. And it's not yet hump day, so no one really wants to hear you complain, even though everyone feels the same way. Salt Meats Cheese can't erase your not-quite-midweek apathy, but it can give your day a buzz thanks to their latest weekly special. Every Tuesday is now Espresso Tuesday at the Gasworks eatery — and it comes with $9 espresso martinis on tap all day. Australia's own Mr Black specialty cold brew coffee liqueur will be filling glasses — and if you're not familiar with the caffeinated tipple, it's made on the NSW Central Coast, by hand, and in batches of just 300. Sounds like the perfect bev to wash down a pizza or plate of pasta, and to brighten up your week.
Whether abstaining from red meat is part of your beliefs, or munching on the ocean's finest just sounds like your idea of a good time, the Regatta Hotel is the place to be this Good Friday. Seafood, seafood and then even more seafood will be on the menu at their annual luncheon. Enjoy seafood platters aplenty — which means prawns, fish, squid, oysters, mussels, bugs and other delicious bites from the ocean — and then top it all off with an Easter-appropriate cake and sweets selection. This mouthwatering feast will set you back $79 per person, which is much more affordable than it usually is. Drinks are extra, but c'mon, it's still better than a backyard barbecue.
Everyone loves a street party, particularly when it involves meals-on-wheels, pop-up bars and live music. That's what's on the agenda at The Block Party at the Gabba — plus, if that's your preferred form of football, some AFL. Yes, for their first home game of the season, the Brisbane Lions are doing something extra special. And it's something that everyone can enjoy, whether you're going to the match or not. From 4pm on March 31, they're turning Jurgens Street Park near the Gabba into a food truck-fuelled block party. There's never a bad reason to throw a shindig, after all. On the culinary lineup is Salt Meats Cheese, Mr Burger, Cheese Lane and Mac From Way Back, so prepare for a feast of pizza, burgs, cheese and mac 'n' cheese. Plus, the fun will run right through the evening — think pre-, during and post-match revelry.
When you were a kid, Easter Sunday meant stuffing your face with as much chocolate as you could. Just us? We know it wasn't. But now you're classed as an 'adult', there's really nothing stopping you from an annual chocolate inhaling. Hey, who's going to judge you? Alternatively, you could indulge in four hours of canapes, frose, rose, Pimm's Easter punch, Veuve Clicquot — at a mid-morning eating and drinking extravaganza. Dalgety Public House has you covered with their Easter Sunday Bottomless Brunch. It's a cool $99 per person, but it'll be worth it. We've given this advice before, and we know we will again: wear something stretchy.
Every Brisbanite knows Anthony Lister — either his work, or his story. The former decorated the city's traffic signal boxes, brightening up more than 120 of them with his distinctive creations, all with the permission of Brisbane City Council. The latter, however, took a turn into interesting territory when BCC later took him to court on graffiti-related charges. In early April, you can catch his tale on screen in the excellent documentary Have You Seen the Listers?, and from March 22 to May 5, you can also see his latest exhibition at Fireworks Gallery. With the title Anthony Lister: The Flower Show, you can guess what he's focusing on — but, in his series of multi-coloured creations, it's a little like Brisbane street art meeting Van Gogh and Andy Warhol. As Lister explains, "Van Gogh was a delusional, antisocial sociopath — I can relate to that. Andy Warhol was a psychopath — I can also relate to that… It is agreed though they both made some very good paintings while they were alive… I have (for the sake of history and conversation) created a series of amalgamation paintings that celebrate the genius of both Van and Andy by unifying the qualities I am most attracted to of each."
With its natural decor and lashings of lush foliage, Elixir Rooftop Bar might very well be the kind of place a rabbit would like to call home. This Easter, there'll be a few hoppers doing just that — though they'll be of the Lindt chocolate type, of course. To usher in the occasion, the panoramic Brisbane venue is once again hosting their famous midnight bunny hunt. There'll be more than just sweet cocoa-based treats, with chocolate martinis also on the menu. Doors open at 4pm, and arriving early is recommended — how else are you going to scope out all those sneaky chocolate rabbit hiding spots?
Enjoying a few brews shouldn't cost the earth — not just in terms of price, but in environmental impact. So when Helios Brewing Company opened up on Yerongpilly, they ensured minimising waste, maximising efficiency and reducing their ecological footprint was part of their setup. And when it came to participating in a Brewsvegas dinner, they did the same. Taking place from 6.30pm on March 13, Australia's Most Sustainable Beer Dinner will pair four Helios brews with an environmentally sustainable menu, as whipped up by The Embassy's hatted head chef Rob Campbell. On offer: Tasmanian salmon, Sunshine Coast duck, scotch ale, chocolate stout and more, plus zero feelings of environmental guilt.
Don't listen to the naysayers — beer goes with just about everything. Sometimes, however, you need a little expert help to get the right combo. Take the tricky pairing of yeasty beverages and caffeinated brews, for example. When it's good, it's very, very good. And when it isn't, you know it. Enter Brewsvegas' Hops & Drops, an event that's all about getting the right blend of beer and coffee. Running from 11am until 7pm on March 13 at Bean on George Street, it'll feature Aether Brewing and Bellissimo Coffee working their way through various duos — including a rather different version of a boilermaker. And, given the timing and location, it's also the perfect thing to do in your lunch break (or if you need an afternoon pick-me-up).
Every three years, QUT Art Museum dedicates one of its regular exhibitions to the the university's alumni, showcasing the creative feats that its former students have achieved. In 2018, the show takes the form of Transboundaries: Art + Connection, although — as the title makes plain — playing with form is one of this exhibition's aims. Featuring work by seven artists, Transboundaries highlights the blending of borders — be it of specific mediums, including dance, film or installation; of the past, present and possible future; or of the social, political, ecological and psychological. That means that it features a little bit of everything, including performances between April 13 to 15 and an immersive video projection until April 15, with the entire exhibition running until June 3. Stopping by on April 13 is particularly recommended, with the gallery staying open until 8pm. As well as boasting all of the above until later, it also ties in with Botanica in the neighbouring Brisbane Botanic Gardens, which includes garden art, live music and food trucks. Image: Liesel Zink, Balloons and granite 2018. Photo: Fenlan Chuang. Dancer Michael Smith.
