In winter 2023, 78,000 people dared to leave their homes to explore the abandoned, unknown corners of Perth city in Strange. Now, it returns.
This June, Strange is set to transform more than 20 vacant spaces throughout Perth city into a wonderland of mysterious, marvellous installations, exhibitions, and performances. Plus, the 35mm Exhumed Cinema will pop up in a new location, set to resurrect another Perth cinema icon.
The event will showcase more than 30 visual artists in a free-to-see art trail, popping up in more than 20 vacant spaces throughout Boorloo. Strange will serve up unique and unusual visual art through sculpture, projection and video; aural art through soundscapes; experiential works engaging visitors; performance pieces; and analogue cinema.
This year will see some exciting new additions. Synapse is a large-format, giant human eye at Elizabeth Quay. Plus, the expansion of Cor Novis in Forrest Place will now host both an opening and a closing event – The Epic Of Gilgamesh. Pox-Eclipse will showcase a taste of Mad Max over at Yagan Square with a Thunderdome full of performances and activities as well as Bartertown, a mini-market bazaar full of trinkets and workshops.
The Epic Of Gilgamesh - Image © Giselle Natalia
Exhumed Cinema was introduced and will make its return in 2024 at The Como Theatre. Exhumed will showcased 35mm and 16mm film, with more than 50 films programmed. The Como Theatre will be slinging strange flavours of popcorn choc bombs, and of course a heap of classic and cult film.
“Our art trail is full of installations created by artists who have had no direction from us, your friendly festival producers,” Strange Co-Founder and Creative Director Jess Oakley says.
“We take immense pride in providing such a large number of local artists the opportunity to create without compromise and expose their incredible talents to a broad audience through Strange. They're sure to excite, engage and titillate.
“We encourage everyone to open their minds and take a stroll down the Strange path. . . Try it, we think you'll like it.”
Strange takes place around Perth from 14-23 June.
