With clear sunny weather forecasted this weekend, Skywhales: Every Heart Sings has been given clearance to fly across Tamworth crowds on Saturday, 6 May. The two hot air balloon sculptures – Skywhale and Skywhalepapa – will commence inflation at 5:15am at No. 1 Oval, Kable Avenue, with official proceedings starting from 6am.
Early risers will be rewarded with breakfast and coffee vans upon arrival, as well as spectacular performances from Tamworth Regional Conservatorium of Music Choir. The group will perform music composed by Jess Green, musician of Pheno, in collaboration with skywhales artist Patricia Piccinini.
Skywhales: Every Heart Sings is a National Gallery of Australia Touring Event that invites communities to gather together to experience the magic of the skywhales.
"Cultural initiatives such as this tour of the now iconic skywhales allow more Australians a chance to experience art in a new way. We can't wait for the Tamworth community to witness the awe and wonder of Piccinini's balloon sculptures, and this once in a lifetime event" says Elspeth Pitt, Senior Curator, Australian Art, National Gallery.
In addition to the launch of the skywhales, two workshops will be held on Friday 5 May (4 – 5pm) and Saturday 6 May (11am – 12pm) as part of Piccinini's "Art Steps" program. By creating unique animals considering themes of environment, care, evolution and sustainability, Piccinini's art workshops aim to help children understand the meaning behind Skywhalepapa and Skywhale.
Bridget Guthrie, Director of Tamworth Regional Gallery and Museums said that she is delighted with the schedule of events planned and would like to thank all organisers and partners involved for their efforts in the lead up to Skywhales: Every Heart Sings.
"As an exhibition that tours globally, Tamworth is very lucky to have been able to attract art of this calibre for our residents to enjoy", she said. "This is one not to be missed."
Skywhales: Every Heart Sings is a weather permitting event.
