For the first time in four decades, the imposing doors of Sydney’s historic White Bay Power Station have swung open to welcome patrons into a transformative artistic experience.
As part of the 24th Biennale of Sydney, the ‘Ten Thousand Suns’ exhibition, curated by Vivian Ziherl and Tony Albert, stands as a beacon of celebration and resilience, spotlighting First Nations cultures from around the globe.
Nestled under the shadow of Sydney’s Anzac Bridge, the White Bay Power Station serves as a poignant backdrop for this year’s Biennale, juxtaposing its industrial heritage with the vibrant contemporary expressions housed within. Organised under the artistic direction of Cosmin Costinaș and Inti Guerrero, the exhibition transcends traditional boundaries, weaving together narratives of collective resistance, cultural resurgence, and hope in the face of adversity.
At its heart, ‘Ten Thousand Suns’ radiates with the vitality of Indigenous knowledge and creativity. Australian Indigenous art takes centre stage alongside works from other First Nations cultures, forming a rich tapestry of artistic expressions that challenge and inspire. From the intricate storytelling of Mangala Bai Maravi and the evocative landscapes by John Pule to the bold visual narratives of Kaylene Whiskey and the innovative installations of Freddy Mamani, each artist’s contribution adds a layer to the exhibition’s thematic exploration.
The exhibition is not merely a showcase of art but a profound dialogue between cultures, facilitated by the Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain, an offshoot of the renowned luxury brand Cartier. Hervé Chandès, the foundation’s international director, underscores the importance of collaboration with the Biennale of Sydney, describing it as an opportunity to bridge cultural divides and foster meaningful conversations through art.
‘Ten Thousand Suns’ is a deliberate departure from Western fatalism, challenging prevailing narratives of apocalypse and embracing a future envisioned through joy and shared experiences. This vision is particularly poignant in today’s climate emergency, where discussions around sustainability and cultural resilience intersect with urgent relevance.
The choice of the White Bay Power Station as a venue adds layers of meaning to the exhibition. Once a symbol of industrial might, its transformation into a space for artistic exploration symbolises the evolution of cultural landscapes and the resilience of communities in embracing change. The station’s cavernous halls now echo with the voices of 96 artists and collectives from 50 countries and territories, showcased not only at White Bay but also across iconic Sydney venues including the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, Art Gallery of New South Wales, and Sydney Opera House.
For more than five decades, the Biennale of Sydney has been a cornerstone of Australia’s cultural calendar, bringing global perspectives to local audiences and fostering a deep appreciation for contemporary art’s transformative power. This year’s edition continues this tradition with ‘Ten Thousand Suns,’ inviting visitors to explore, reflect, and celebrate the myriad ways in which art connects us across borders and enriches our understanding of the human experience.
As visitors traverse the halls of the White Bay Power Station, they are invited not only to witness but to participate in a global conversation—one that celebrates diversity, challenges preconceptions, and ultimately, ignites a collective hope for a brighter, more inclusive future. In doing so, ‘Ten Thousand Suns’ illuminates pathways to reconciliation, understanding, and joy, proving once again that art has the power to inspire change and unite cultures in pursuit of shared ideals.