Ahead of Sydney Contemporary 2024, we spoke with Sotiris Sotirou, Director of COMA, about his favourite places in Sydney. Sotiris shares his top inspirations, from engaging with local creatives, enjoying Sydney’s outdoor life, cultural highlights, and more.
What makes Sydney stand out as a cultural destination?
I have always found Sydney to be a place that offers a wonderful intersection of contemporary culture and the natural world. Not many cities have major cultural landmarks situated right on one of the most impressive harbours accessible today. I like the idea that within a single day a visitor can satiate themselves with music, nature, contemporary art and great food within minutes of each other.
Image: COMA, 2/27-39 Abercrombie St, Chippendale
Where do you go to find inspiration in Sydney?
A lot of my inspiration in Sydney comes from the people I interact with. Friends, art collectors, creatives. I am often swimming and walking outdoors with these people, and when inside it usually involves a museum or group dining. I am inspired by members of my community looking at Sydney as a place full of potential to be a truly advanced and international city.
Image: Ester, Chippendale. Photo: Nikki To
After a day of exploring Sydney Contemporary, where would you go for dinner and drinks to continue the evening?
If I have spent a whole day at a fair looking at, speaking about and acquiring artworks then a treat is in order. I often frequent Ester which is located in Chippendale, close to both Carriageworks and my gallery, COMA. Roasted oysters, potato bread, dashi jelly, and a big focus on char are all on the menu. I am locking in here for a meal and a couple of vodka martinis before shooting off to 77 on William Street in Darlinghurst to have a required pre-bed dance.
Image: Otis Kwame Kye Quaicoe, Unrevealed, 2024
What cultural events or exhibitions coincide with Sydney Contemporary 2024 that you recommend?
Seeing as September offers the promise of a welcome move into Spring, Sydney will offer a wealth of events as the weather heats up. I would recommend seeing Eartheater live at the Manning Bar on the 26th August as part of their Australian tour, visiting COMA on the night of the 30th August for the opening of Otis Kwame Kye Quaicoe’s debut exhibition in this region, and if still in town at the end of September attending Tognetti. Mendelssohn. Bach. at the Opera House with the Australian Chamber Orchestra.
