As Sydney Contemporary returns to Carriageworks this September, we’re looking beyond the Fair and into the city itself. We asked Venue Owner and Operator of The Vanguard, Beau Neilson, to share her guide to Sydney, from the galleries and exhibitions she loves to the restaurants, live music venues and lesser-known spots that continue to inspire her.
What makes Sydney stand out as a cultural destination?
We are fortunate to have a beautiful harbour, great weather and the perfect setup to enjoy incredible art, music and performance both indoors and out.
If you have friends visiting from out of town, what are you adding to their itinerary?
There are a few must-sees for everyone who visits me. We’d start with a walk around the harbour and the Royal Botanic Garden, then head to the Art Gallery of NSW to see the latest show. Following that, we would go to Chinatown for steaming hot dumplings and jasmine tea at yum cha at The Eight. After filling our greedy bellies we would walk over to Chippendale to see a wild Chinese contemporary art exhibition at White Rabbit Gallery. Then we’d finish the evening with dinner at Cafe Paci in Newtown and a gig at The Vanguard.
Pictured: Avatar: Forms of Vishnu, Installation at Art Gallery of NSW.
What cultural events or exhibitions coincide with Sydney Contemporary that you recommend?
Sydney Dance Company has its latest show, “Current”, at the intimate studio in Walsh Bay. Night owls can enjoy “Gut Health: After Dark” at The Vanguard. It’s a band, not a health treatment, and the vibe will be genre-warping and a whole lot of fun.
Pictured: The Vanguard
What are some places, people or experiences in Sydney currently inspiring you?
The beauty of Murray Rose Pool in Double Bay is always calming and inspiring to me. It’s surrounded by serene gardens that feel like they’re from another time, and the charming Woollahra Gallery at Redleaf sits right there too.
Do you have a favourite public art installation or mural in the city? What makes it special?
Agatha Gothe-Snape’s work on Bathurst Street (Represented by The Commercial). It’s a subtle mosaic in the east laneway at 115 Bathurst Street, Sydney, and the warped, marbled aesthetic captures the elusive nature of water.
Pictured: Agatha Gothe-Snape’s work on Bathurst Street (Represented by The Commercial).
After a day of exploring Sydney Contemporary, where would you go for dinner and drinks to continue the evening?
The Eveleigh for a drink, a meal and some fabulous live music. It gets very busy, so if you’re with a group, book your table in advance.
A hidden gem?
Primary in Potts Point is a real institution for anyone who enjoys coffee. Creatives, art lovers and makers gather there in droves.
