Sydney International Art Series 2017-18

Overview

Bringing some of the world's greatest past and present artists to Australia, the Sydney International Art Series 2017-18 features two outstanding exhibitions — and a gleaming pop-up bar to match.

First up, the MCA hosts Pipilotti Rist: Sip My Ocean, a kaleidoscopic exhibition exploring the much-acclaimed work of the Swiss video art pioneer. The most comprehensive showing of Rist's work in Australia to date, the exhibition considers the coming together of the natural world, technology and the human body through Rist's immersive installations and vast audiovisual compositions.

Meanwhile, just across the Royal Botanical Garden at the Art Gallery of NSW, Rembrandt and the Dutch Golden Age: Masterpieces from the Rijksmuseum showcases 76 masterpieces of Dutch painting, created during an era of unmatched prosperity and artistic inspiration. Rembrandt and the Dutch Golden Age reveals the wealth, power and influence of an emerging Dutch society in the 17th century. As part of the exhibition, there will be an entire room dedicated to Rembrandt's vast range of work. Also, there will be a work by painter Johannes Vermeer — one of only 35 surviving paintings in the world.

To celebrate this year's event, a Pipilotti Rist inspired pop-up bar has sprung up on the banks of Circular Quay. A vibrant and unconventional space, Colour Fields has lots going on, including Sunday sessions by Future Classic, snacks and cocktails by Culinary Edge, workshops and more. Art Gallery of NSW will also hold special events dedicated to the Rembrandt exhibition. Each Wednesday evening during the exhibition's run, the gallery's Art After Hours will feature special talks, tours, performances and a pop-up bar serving drinks and eats.

Pipilotti Rist: Sip My Ocean runs until February 18, 2018; Colour Fields is open throughout the summer at the MCA and Rembrandt and the Dutch Golden Age runs until February 18, 2018.