Invisible Winds

Background: The research was informed by curatorial studies literature, in The Culture of Curating and the Curating of Cultures(s) (O’Neill, 2016) who states curating group exhibitions are a way for divergent art practices to come together as “…a form of storytelling in which exhibitions are articulated in terms of curatorial concept, thematic or overarching narratives”. 'Invisible Winds' bought together 13 artists to consider the relationship between artistic expression and the wind, in the context of the climate crisis. Contribution: The exhibition focused upon exploring the varying moods of the wind from chaotic and raw to creative and productive. Wind is created through the opposing forces of cold and warm air, can create severe and widespread destruction – moving oceans, eroding landscapes, toppling the built environment, and displacing communities, winds typically instil fear. Yet as a productive force, wind can also be the energy we need, from a cool summer breeze to the wind farms which power our cities. Wind can also instil awe and wonder, connect us to spirituality, folklore, history, and changing of the seasons. 'Invisible Winds' features photography, painting, sound, film, installation and performance by artists who depict, harness, and collaborate with the wind. Significance: This exhibition was curated for the CLIMARTE Gallery, the world’s first gallery and platform for presenting artistic expressions to engage and inspire action on the climate crisis. CLIMARTE funded exhibition costs to participate in their program through support from the Australia Council for the Arts. Public programs were funded through City of Yarra Climate Action grants.