Inner West Council’s inaugural EDGE – a series of five planned ‘creative precincts activations’ – attracted thousands of people from across Sydney in March.
EDGE GreenWay, a community celebration spotlighting the cultural ‘ecosystem’ in Lilyfield, was a hive of activity from the 3pm starting time right through until the jaw-dropping finale performance by local physical theatre company, Legs on the Wall.
Inner West Mayor, Darcy Byrne, said, “This initial event has put EDGE on Sydney’s cultural map, generating huge public interest and real momentum to build EDGE into an artistic presence that will rival Vivid.
“Thanks to EDGE GreenWay, so many more people, especially local residents, are aware of what is right on their doorsteps – this incredible precinct, including The Canal Road Film Centre and Legs on the Wall physical theatre company.
“While the Inner West is home to more arts workers per head than just about anywhere else in Australia, this is an ecosystem that is endangered by a lack of affordable premises.
“EDGE shines a spotlight on not only all the amazing resourcefulness, but also the increasing challenges facing our creative communities.
Over two weekends in August, EDGE Sydenham turned the spotlight onto that fascinatingly gritty area of Sydney where the lanes and streets are full of artist studios and collectives, a live music scene and speciality food makers and retailers.
“The festival celebrated urban artists and cultural life, bringing together the industrial and creative arts industries of Sydenham showcasing where art is made, who is making it and why it matters,” said the Mayor.
“The first weekend featured the popular Creative Trails, weaving around over 40 artist spaces plus guided tours, exhibitions, installations and street art, underground spaces, loads of live music and parties.
“And the second weekend was a fire fuelled finale event when dancing flames lighting the way as the Fire Garden by Tortuga Studios illuminated the night sky and an electronic wonderland of movement and art at ElectroSK8 at Sydenham Skate Park. “
The free community event will honour the proud working past of Sydenham and St Peters with industrial artists inspired by metal and fire.
The all ages event had live music, DJs, interactive art, food trucks and more.
Two EDGE events remain for this year. In November EDGE Newtown is themed art and activism and EDGE Balmain is art and wellbeing.
