Fremantle Biennale sheds light on climate change issues

Undercurrent 19 is the second edition of the contemporary art program Fremantle Biennale. Running for three weeks from 1–24 November 2019 in Fremantle, WA, this year's program will showcase the internationally acclaimed light installation Waterlicht by Studio Roosegaarde, founded by Dutch artist Daan Roosegaarde. The installation calls attention to rising water levels and the climate change crisis.

This is the first time the studio has presented its large-scale light installation in the Southern Hemisphere. Waterlicht illustrates the universal power and poetry of water; cascading waves of blue light will be projected in Esplanade Park, simulating a virtual flood and calling attention to rising water levels along Fremantle's shoreline.

The work will embrace the unique physical features of the site, acknowledging its past as reclaimed land and a significant site for the Whadjuk people.

An accompanying soundscape podcast will feature local histories and current realities of Fremantle's waterfront, by traditional custodians, prominent civic figures, historians and artists. The soundscape podcast will remain an enduring legacy of the work, and serve as a call to action for a state-wide conversation around water initiatives and the current climate crisis (1–3 November, Esplanade Park).

The Fremantle Biennale will also present 15 new commissions and over 40 local, national and international artists.

Fremantle Biennale co-founder and Artistic Director Tom Mùller said: “Art has always been a fundamental component of Fremantle, with its creative community almost as renowned as its port.

“All art forms will inform and be informed by the space and history of Fremantle, whilst also addressing key topical issues of today,” he said.

To find out more, visit www.fremantlebiennale.com.au.

Images: Waterlicht by Studio Roosegaarde, credit Studio Roosegaarde.