Redfern and Waterloo Arts and Culture

What’s on in Redfern and Waterloo

Theatre, dance, poetry and art all dominate the arts and culture scene in Redfern and Waterloo, where it’s easy to discover emerging and established artists.

Artists inspired by the Australian cultural landscape have an outlet at the Damien Minton Gallery in Redfern, while the curators at the Boutwell Draper Gallery have worked with the likes of Arthur Boyd, John Coburn, Henry Moore, Justin O'Brien, Jeffrey Smart, Tim Storrier, Ann Thompson, Brett Whiteley, Fred Williams and John Wolseley.

The cutting-edge arts hub at 2 Danks Street features nine galleries showcasing Australian and international contemporary art. Check out Aboriginal and Pacific Art in the complex and indigenous and modern art at Annette Larkin Fine Art.

Brenda May represents a small group of emerging and established artists including Tanmaya Bingham and Robert Boynes. And, you can watch Bridget Kennedy and Melanie Ihnen producing limited edition pieces and commissioned work at Studio 20/17, which is committed to using recycled gold and silver metals, and also supports other contemporary jewellery artists.

Carriageworks has partnered with JUMP, the Australia Council’s national Mentoring Program for Young and Emerging Artists, so there’s always something interesting on, from outdoor physical theatre and live works to dance and performing arts. Hugely popular events such as the Wrong Prom, a legwarmer-heavy 80s dance night, and Winter Wonderland, complete with ice rink, have also been held here in the past.

The National Centre of Indigenous Excellence in Redfern also plays an important role in the precinct’s arts and culture scene, running a variety of programs and encouraging participation in visual and performing arts.

Poetry writers, and fans, should check out The Red Room Company, a not-for-profit organization supporting young and emerging Australian writers. Their work is promoted and published in imaginative ways including radio, podcast and live acts.