MCA ARTBAR: Canopy

Overview

In August, ARTBAR — the MCA's after-dark, adults-only art party — transported you to an underworld of pagan mystery. Now that the weather is warming up, your next destination is an underworld of another kind: a steamy tropical forest.

Welcome to Canopy, a rainforest-inspired pop-up bar that doubles as a creative ecosystem. Created by powerhouse DJ and visual artist Hannah Brontë, this shindig is all about fierce women. Listen out for the fearless hip hop of Fiji-born, Brisbane musician Jesswar, who has played Australia's biggest festivals, including Laneway, Groovin' the Moo and Splendour in the Grass. Meanwhile, Sydney's Peruvian-born DJ Carolina Gasolina will bring her extremely danceable collection of 90s R&B and rap bangers — as well as a bunch of tracks you've probably never heard before.

Also getting you on the floor will be Tongan-born, Sydney-based DJ Kilimi, whose set combines Afro, baile and jersey edits with R&B voguing favourites. And, when you least expect it, you'll meet Black Birds (aka Ayeesha Ash), who'll lead a performative workshop — while dressed in wearable art.

Plus, you'll be able to check out the retrospective exhibition of British female artist Cornelia Parker, which is her first major survey exhibition in the southern hemisphere. While usually ticketed, the exhibition will be open after dark for ARTBAR attendees, so you can check out her powerful, haunting and often violent works for free.

ARTBAR usually sells out, so be sure to grab your tickets sooner rather than later. Canopy will take over all levels of the MCA on Friday, November 29, from 7-11pm.