The Biennale of Sydney has announced the appointment of Low Kee Hong as the artistic director for its 26th iteration, scheduled for 2028. This announcement comes after the successful conclusion of the 2025 Biennale, which was curated by Hoor Al Qasimi under the theme 'Rememory'. Low Kee Hong, a highly respected figure in the international arts community, expressed his enthusiasm for fostering discovery and participation, aiming to engage diverse audiences and collaborate with artists and cultural leaders across Australia and the broader region.
Renowned Arts Leader Low Kee Hong to Helm 2028 Sydney Biennale
On July 28, 2026, the Biennale of Sydney officially unveiled Low Kee Hong as the artistic director for its upcoming 26th edition. This significant cultural event, which traditionally spans three months across various venues in New South Wales, will be presented in and around Sydney in 2028. Low Kee Hong, a native of Singapore, brings extensive experience from his illustrious career in the arts. He is the founding creative director of Factory International, a dynamic arts organization that commenced operations in Manchester, UK, in 2023. Under his leadership, Factory International has hosted significant exhibitions, including Ai Weiwei's site-specific work, 'Ai Weiwei: Button Up!', and is also responsible for organizing the biennial Manchester International Festival. Prior to his role at Factory International, Hong was the head of theater and performing arts at the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority in Hong Kong, and previously held the positions of artistic director and general manager for the Singapore Arts Festival, in addition to being the founding director of the Singapore Biennale. His appointment marks a historic moment, as he is the first Southeast Asian to lead the Biennale of Sydney. The previous 25th edition of the Biennale was headquartered at the White Bay Power Station, with other notable locations including the Campbelltown Arts Center, the Art Gallery of New South Wales, the Chau Chak Wing Museum at the University of Sydney, and Lewers: Penrith Regional Gallery.
Low Kee Hong's vision for the 2028 Biennale emphasizes the transformative power of contemporary art. He believes art can inspire wonder, forge meaningful connections, and unlock new perspectives on ourselves and our shared humanity. His aspiration is to craft an edition that is generous in spirit, fostering innovative forms of assembly, rebuilding communities, and celebrating collective joy amidst contemporary challenges. This forward-looking approach suggests a Biennale that will not only showcase groundbreaking art but also serve as a vital platform for social engagement and cultural exchange.