Public Art; In the literal sense

Barangaroo, Martin Place and many more areas located in the heart of Sydney are currently surrounded by a small pop up art show amidst restaurants, bustling noise and the common public. Supported by the City of Sydney and Transport for NSW, “I Came To See,” does not follow its traditional predecessors of art galleries, but rather has the art speak for itself as its allowed an exclusive look for the Australian public to have accessible and quick access to some of the work Australian artists have created.

With a variety of colour, and a mix of large frames, many believe this to be a good chance of letting the word get out of your work, and not having to rely completely on wealthy people to attend galleries, a common passerby in the city of Barangaroo commented on the artwork stating, “I’m glad that as I head home I can look at some artwork, oh and I don’t have to pay to see it... I can just look.”

‘I Came To See’ Artwork on Display in Barangaroo SAFA KHAN

Barangaroo, was the one attend in particular, as the art was facing a restaurant, spaced out for public and customers alike in hopes of catching their eye with the beautiful colours, large frames and carefully positioned artwork. The artwork was presented by the National Art School, and showcases the talents of current students and graduates of “Australia’s leading independent fine art school.”

According to their website, I Came To See, it “aims to reconnect the public with the cultural sector by bringing the independent art gallery experience to various outdoor locations within the Sydney CBD. Each location will showcase original, contemporary artwork by emerging Australian artists in a safe and accessible environment, highlighting the importance of arts and culture in the city. Artworks will be on display and available to purchase at any time of the day/night for the duration of each exhibition.”

The curator for the Barangaroo Art display stated on their website, “These works are vibrant, multilayered and use a variety of different techniques and mediums. Many of the artists experiment with form and process by improvising with materials and using alternative methods to create compositions that speak to contemporary, everyday audiences. Collectively these works provide a glimpse into the diverse range of artistic talent nurtured and facilitated by the school.”

The artworks could be bought on the spot, as the art displays had a QR code that could be scanned, and taken straight to the website, whether it be for more information or to simply purchase the product.

Image of the QR code taken in Barangaroo SAFA KHAN

I Came To See is a public experience that takes art to a whole new level, of appreciation, acceptance and dedication. With over three different areas of pop up shows, the artists, can be in the comfort of their own home when selling their artwork and the public have the favour of looking at incredible work for free and whenever it’s least expected.