22/07/2024

Thousands of people attended Georges River Council’s fourth Un[contained] Arts Festival across Friday 19 to Sunday 21 July.

Proudly sponsored by VJB Group and Sydney Water, the Festival is a hallmark of South Sydney’s cultural calendar and transformed Belgrave Street, Kogarah into a bustling hub of creativity, liveliness and community spirit. Transcending a traditional gallery experience, it incorporated a rich blend of art, installations and roving performances, providing attendees with an immersive experience.
 
Crowd favourites included ‘Fantastic Planet’ by Amanda Parer, a large scale light up inflatable figure, crouching down to inspect the crowds; ‘MamMoth’ by George Buchanan, an interactive kinetic swing where participants movements caused the glowing moth’s wings to flap; and ‘Bloom’ by Sway, a showstopping aerial performance situated in the heart of the festival.
 
Mouthwatering food and beverage options were also available to the crowds, including offerings from The Social Brewers, the Georges River area’s first independent brewery.
 
Georges River Council Mayor Sam Elmir, who officially opened the Festival on Friday evening, proudly welcomed the community to the event and thanked event sponsors VJB Group and Sydney Water.
 
“The Un[contained] Arts Festival is a platform where emerging and established artists can extend their practice and showcase their talents within a festival environment. We are here to disrupt the conventional, to challenge what is traditionally considered 'art,' and to spark curiosity and a sense of play in everyone who joins us.
 
“Since its inception in 2021, this festival has grown to become a landmark event in our community. We are here to celebrate the liveliness and diversity of the Georges River area, transforming it into a canvas of endless possibilities. Together, we can make Georges River a beacon of culture, creativity, and innovation,” added the Mayor.