Program Sectors
Sydney Contemporary celebrates the vibrancy and diversity of art. The program presents a showcase of the very best modern and contemporary art, current trends and emergent practices.
Alongside the Fair Sectors, the curated program presents over 200 events across the Fair period, including the highly anticipated Art Night; engaging and lively panel discussions with leading speakers in the fields of art, architecture, design, food, fashion and music; guided tours; educational workshops; artist talks; live performances; and large-scale, ambitious installations. Come for the art, stay for the experience!
The main Galleries sector provides a significant platform for curated solo or group exhibitions of new and important work by artists from leading galleries around the world.
New for 2025: Photo Sydney! A major new sector dedicated to photography. Featuring outstanding photographic works from contemporary artists, Photo Sydney is a must-see at the fair this year.
Image by Kai Wasikowski.
A dynamic platform presenting young galleries or artist run initiatives which have been operating for five years or less, presenting curated solo or duo artist exhibitions of new work.
A fair within the Fair; presented in association with The Print Council of Australia Inc, the dedicated Paper sector showcases the best of national and international contemporary works on paper–watercolours, drawings, artist books, prints and editions.
Art Night
Art Night, the opening celebration of Sydney Contemporary from 5:30-9pm on Thursday 11 September, presents an all-encompassing evening of art and culture. Discover performance, live DJ set, music, and food. Buy Art Night Tickets.
Friday Night
Kick off your weekend with a visit to Carriageworks for Friday Night, on 12 September from 4-8pm. Enjoy live jazz and electronic musical performances curated specially for Sydney Contemporary. Buy Friday Night Tickets.
Nine talks bring together 30 speakers in sharp, engaging and unmissable conversations exploring topical and controversial themes in contemporary art, architecture, and design. Expect lively discussions, surprising insights, and plenty of inspiration!
Two powerful performances by Christian Thompson AO and Kalisolaite ‘Uhila explore identity and ancestry through sound, stillness, and endurance.
Nine ambitious projects celebrate artists from Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand who experiment with scale, materiality, and immersive experiences. From Lisa Reihana’s site-specific, shimmering discs to Jonny Niesche’s sound-infused, light-responsive installation, these works don’t just occupy space, they transform it!
BTWNLNS Pop-Up Bookshop
BTWNLNS (Between Lines) brings its sharp eye and bold taste to the fair. In partnership with do you read me?!, BTWNLNS will curate a standout selection of new releases, rare finds, and collectible titles on art, design, architecture, and more — an inspiring space to browse, linger, and connect.
Guided Tours
Join an art experts for a free guided tour of the Fair. Discover the stories behind key artworks, gain insider insights, and deepen your understanding of the pieces on display.
Artist Talks
Step into the creative process with our popular Artist Talks series where artists share the stories, inspirations, and experiences behind their works. With a range of perspectives and personal insights, these talks offer a unique opportunity to connect with the minds behind the art on display.
Fair Dining
From quick snacks to leisurely dining, Sydney Contemporary offers a wide variety of food and drink options to keep you fueled during your visit.
Kid Contemporary
Each year a leading artist is commissioned to create an immersive space dedicated to play and imagination, inspiring the next generation of art lovers.
