Spacemakers and Roomshakers

Overview

This July, the AGNSW dives deep into its massive collection to presents some of its favourite large-scale installations — some of which haven't been displayed for years. With installations made from light, sound, spices, fabric and air, Spacemakers and Roomshakers showcases some rarely seen works, with visitors set to have their senses accosted by the holistic creations on display.

Highlights include Brazilian Ernesto Neto's Just like drops in time, nothing (2002), which uses fabrics infused with masses of aromatic spices to attack your senses. The installation is overwhelming — purposely — as it combines its floor-to-ceiling size with intense smells.

Also on display is Australian Nick Savvas' Atomic: full of love, full of wonder (2005), which interlinks thousands of coloured balls to create a 'shimmering haze'. Reflecting on the fundamental role of atoms as building blocks, Savvas was inspired to create the work after living in dreary London and recalling what Australia's red earth looked like.

Alongside video art, 'alien toy' collages and more, Spacemakers and Roomshakers invites AGNSW visitors to be drawn into these carefully constructed and distinctive sensory worlds.

Images 1 & 2: Nike Savvas 'Atomic: full of love, full of wonder (2005). Image 3: Ernesto Neto 'Just like drops in time, nothin' (2002). All images courtesy of the AGNSW