With a profound 43-year legacy, Metro Arts’ 2024 Program places Australian artists and experimentation at its core. Showcasing a vibrant tapestry of contemporary art, the program features 13 art exhibitions, 5 mainstage productions (accompanied by the revival of the One Night Stand Series, boasting 5 distinct performance events), and the debut of an innovative experimental dance festival.
At the launch event, Genevieve Trace, Executive Director at Metro Arts, emphasised the significance of the organisation within Australia’s arts sector in backing independent artists to experiment with new ideas and artforms – which in turn, forwards Australia’s creative landscape.Â
“As a multi-art form institution, Metro Arts exists as a launchpad for emerging talent in Australia, propelling artists towards their career aspirations and creative pursuits, ultimately catapulting them to further career opportunities.”
“Our 2024 Program stands as a monumental celebration of the current diversity and talent within Australian contemporary art. It underscores Metro Arts’ unwavering commitment to fostering creativity, celebrating diversity, and amplifying the myriad voices that contribute to the vibrant landscape of contemporary and experimental Australian art.” Ms Trace said.
Program highlights include: a two-week dance festival – DANCE24 – showcasing the future of dance; an interactive theatre experience for children – SCAREDY HOUSE – by award-winning collective Counterpilot, and an international First Nations Exchange (CONTAINER x Metro Arts) held in partnership with Container: Brisbane Film Society. Additionally, Metro Arts continues to support experimentation by independent artists through their Creative Development Program and multi-faceted residency programs:
“Metro Arts’ remains committed to supporting new artists in the creation of innovative work. Our Creative Development and Residency Programs provide a vital platform for experimentation, collaboration, and the exploration of new forms and new models.” – Genevieve Trace.Â
Creative Development artists in 2024 include: artist Joshua Taliani, First Nations’ theatre collective THE DEADLY THEATRE, IMRSE (Emma Churchland and Dan Gough), and the creation of a new dance work by Ashleigh Musk, Anna Whitaker and Jenni Large.Â
The 2024 Season Launch was officially launched by the Honourable Leeanne Enoch MP – Minister for Treaty, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Minister for Communities and Minister for the Arts.
“Metro Arts’ big and bold 2024 season will showcase diverse stories across artforms, that will entertain, challenge and provoke reflection,” Minister Enoch said.
“This season builds on Metro Arts more than 40-year history of nurturing emerging artists and creatives, and providing an important platform to share new work that engages and challenges audiences.
“The Queensland Government is proud to support Metro Arts in fostering innovative contemporary arts performances and experiences, and building sustainable careers for local artists and arts workers, as key priorities of our 10-year Creative Together strategy.      Â
“We are also further investing in Metro Arts’ growth ambition through the Strategic Partnerships Fund to create immersive arts and cultural experiences that celebrate stories and place and attract new visitors and audiences as we look to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”
Brisbane artist Elizabeth Willing is also set to create a major art installation as part of the Metro Arts x Brisbane Festival 2024 program. Willing’s large-scale interactive installation – KITCHEN STUDIO – aims to challenge perceptions of the modern diet by exploring edible materials in unconventional ways.
In 2024, the organisation further enhances opportunities for deeper artistic growth through the appointment of two Artistic Associates: Daniel Clifford (Visual Arts), and Benjamin Knapton (Performance).Â
“For over four decades, Metro Arts has been the starting point for so many Australian artists, propelling them onto national and international acclaim. I look forward to joining the team and working with the organisation and artists to make waves within the industry, “ – Daniel Clifford.
Metro Arts invites audiences to connect with new perspectives through the rich spectrum of contemporary art presented in their 2024 program.Â
“Each moment beckons you to be moved and consider new ideas at the forefront of creative expression and art-making. Discover the future of contemporary Australian art right here, at Metro Arts.” – Genevieve Trace, Executive Director.
Image: INVADER, Creative Development by IMRSE. Photo by L&M Photography Co
