What is the Karla Bidi installation at the Perth Festival?

Karla Bidi is a light and sound installation that draws on ancient practices of lighting campfires along the Swan River, symbolizing belonging and connection.

How does Joe Bloom's 'A View from the Bridge' project work?

Red telephones are placed on city bridges, allowing strangers to speak with artist Joe Bloom and share their stories, which are then filmed.

What is the significance of the Derbarl Yerrigan river in the Perth Festival?

The festival emphasizes the Derbarl Yerrigan river's historical and cultural importance, using its banks as a backdrop for installations and performances that recall ancient stories and foster connection.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Perth Festival Opens: River's Trail Ignites Culture

Perth Festival Opens: River's Trail Ignites Culture

9 Feb

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Summary

Karla Bidi light installation honors ancient river gatherings.
Strangers connect via phones on bridges sharing stories.
Festival centers on the Derbarl Yerrigan river's cultural significance.

Perth Festival Opens: River's Trail Ignites Culture

Perth Festival has launched its latest program, centered around the significant Derbarl Yerrigan (Swan River). The opening features Karla Bidi, a light and sound installation inspired by ancient campfire traditions along the riverbanks.

This year's festival, now in its seventh decade, revisits the river's role in stories and community connection. Eleven installations stretch across various locations, illuminating the river's path and serving as gathering points.

Artist Joe Bloom's project "A View from the Bridge" invites strangers to connect via red telephones placed on city bridges. These conversations, captured on film, offer intimate glimpses into personal histories and experiences.