Eucalyptusdom

One of five new exhibitions at Sydney’s Powerhouse, Eucalyptusdom includes more than 400 objects and newly commissioned works across design, architecture, film, applied arts and performance – all in connection to our relationship with the gum tree.

The exhibition’s title comes from a 1930s text by Edward F Swain, one of Australia’s earliest colonial conservationists. It’s a major exploration of our ongoing and changing relationship with the eucalypt – from First Nations Australians’ connections to logging practices and our overall human impact.

Artists who’ve created works for the exhibition include Nicole Barakat and the Rohingya Women’s Development Organisation, Dean Cross, Julie Gough, Vera Hong, Jonathan Jones, Lucy Simpson, Yasmin Smith, Wukun Wanambi, Sera Waters, Damien Wright, Bonhula Yunupingu and Justine Youssef, among many others.

It’s going to look pretty cool, too. Australia’s leading artists, designers and architects have contributed to the design, including lighting designer Nick Schlieper (who lights up the stages of many Sydney theatre performances) and architect Richard Leplastrier AO. It’ll also be soundtracked by soprano and composer Jane Sheldon.

While you’re there, check out Robert Rosen: Glitterati, the largest survey of the work by one Australia’s foremost fashion and social photographers; Electric Keys, which features instruments dating from the 17th century to modern-day synthesisers; Graphic Identities – including works by eight 20th century designers; and Clay Dynasty, which charts 50 years of ceramic practice in Australia from 160 local artists.

It is free to visit. All visitors aged over 16 will need to be fully vaccinated and wear masks while inside the museum, in accordance with NSW Health guidelines.