The exhibition
From letting loose in the loungeroom to enthralling audiences on stage, this National Portrait Gallery exhibition celebrates dance and dancers. Capturing the beauty of movement, self-expression and connection, the works on display in DANCER were collaboratively curated and choreographed by the National Portrait Gallery together with a group of local dancers. DANCER comprises 50 exhibition prints and two audiovisual works. Some of the themes addressed in the exhibition include the accessibility of dance to all, the authentic joy to be experienced through dance, and how art, life, body, and nature all connect in dance. The images on display also show dance connecting humanity across time through cultural knowledge, teaching and legacies. The exhibition offers space for imagination, empathy, and curiosity about different ways of understanding the world and the confidence and wellbeing that flows from this. Portraits from the Gallery’s collection include dance legends Gideon Obarzanek, Kristian Fredrikson, Irina Baronova, Graeme Murphy, Janet Vernon, Robert Helpmann, Marilyn Rowe, Hélène Kirsova, Anna Pavlova, and Kenneth Rowell. These are interpreted and contextualised through stunning, relatable images of people dancing by some of Australia’s leading photographers. In the text accompanying the works, dancers from all over Australia share their personal experiences, giving an insider perspective on lives lived through dance.
DATES
Bookings from February 2024 – March 2027
NUMBER OF WORKS
DANCER comprises 50 exhibition prints and two audiovisual works
SIZE
The show is flexible being 90 – 100 running meters, which can be increased through the addition of local content or reduced through the exclusion of works or double hanging if the space requires it.
TOUR MANUAL
An electronic tour manual will be provided to the host venue with all material required for promotion and advertising including style guide, logos, promotional images, media releases, an invitation DL design, an exhibition checklist and more.
SUPPORT
This exhibition is a self-installation. The exhibition is thematically presented with each venue encouraged to design and interpret the exhibition. The National Portrait Gallery Senior Exhibitions Project Coordinator will be available to provide feedback and assistance where required.
SIGNAGE/WALL LABELS
The tour will include physical introductory signage, wall text and labels. A vinyl wall graphic design can also be supplied if desired.
FEE
$2,000 (GST exclusive). This fee includes all freight and courier costs and is anticipated to be subsidised by support from the National Collecting Institutions Touring and Outreach Program.
PROGRAMMING
DANCER provides a rich range of programming opportunities with National Portrait Gallery staff, featured photographers and dancers within the exhibition.
