Primevera at 25

cover image ‘unlimited radiance’ by Nell, 2001

words by josh ives

Time to break out the champagne, because our beloved Primavera exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Arts turns 25 this year! Whilst this may not be a 21^st birthday, with the events they have in store, you’re gonna think it was.

Just a little history lesson for the uninitiated… Conceptualised back in 1992, Primavera showcases the work of our young Aussie artists under the age of 35. Essentially giving our talented youth their first opportunity to display their work and paving the way for future success. Here’s a cool stat for you: in its 25 years of existence, Primavera has given over 206 artists their start, allowing them to exhibit both on the national and international stage and become influential educators for their craft. Like it or not, this is a HUGE benefit for Australia as it influences more and more youngsters to pick up their pencils and paintbrushes.

Art is one of the most fundamental pillars of humanity, and its practice has outdated most other professions. Although no one can deny the importance of technology, science and innovation as drivers of progression, we also cannot undermine the importance of a thriving art culture as a means to feed the soul.

So, with that little lesson out of the way, let’s delve into what to expect at Primavera at 25

Artworks that appear to transform in front of our very eyes, moving and shifting shape to create new and exciting forms.

Time is explored intimately and beautifully by Tim Silver and Emma White with designs that record time, set intervals or deliberately age.

Nicholas Mangan, Danie Mellor and Constance Zikos carefully examine our relationship with the past through imaginative motifs and forms. Through this, they reflect on our history or even reinterpret traditional designs using contemporary tools.

More than enough for the culture vultures out there to be getting your teeth into! Go and see for yourself if you don’t believe me!

Last but not least, we cannot forget our massive shout out to the MCA for its continued support of the Primavera program. Like a loving parent, it has housed and nurtured its baby to adulthood. Since Primavera began, the MCA has acquired over 230 works by artists who have exhibited previously in the program. That’s pretty cool I reckon.