Walking down purple lit stairs into what used to be the CBD’s Reject Shop, I am transported to the world of blade runner, or some cyberpunk neon dreamscape. The space has been inhabited by, and reformed for, one of the most cutting-edge creative exploits happening in Perth. Strange Festival is an innovative alternative arts festival which has given a much-needed platform for the many and varied modes of expression that Perth has to offer.
I was lucky enough to get a sneak peek before things officially open up (June 16). The Carillion City Arcade’s underbelly is now filled with immersive and interactive installations, paintings, exhibits, sculpture, textiles, and projections.
STRANGE FESTIVAL PERTH MAP
The festival is back for a second year and it’s taking over the hidden corners and vacant spaces of our city with installations, exhibitions, experiences, performance, music, and revival cinema.
The program is now online, including a map of the free self-guided art trail that is expected to attract over 50,000 visitors to the city during Winter.
The festival features the cream of emerging, established, reputable and experimental artists who have all produced original distinctive works that fit the brief of celebrating the misfits and the misunderstood, with a 95% West Australian contingent.
This is a hugely exciting endeavour showcasing what Perth has to offer not only in terms of output but also presentation. Sitting outside conventional entertainment, come and immerse yourself in a celebration of the misfits and the misunderstood in the Strange Festival.