As Melbourne gears up to embrace the warmth of summer, the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) is set to light up the city with a vibrant celebration of Diwali, the Festival of Lights. On 11 November, this free event will transform ACMI into a dazzling hub of cultural festivity, merging the cinematic allure of South Asia with traditional festivities.
Diwali, a festival deeply rooted in South Asian traditions, symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. At ACMI, this celebration takes on a unique cinematic twist, showcasing an array of live music and dance performances influenced by the iconic soundtracks of Bollywood, Tollywood, and Kollywood. This confluence of film and festival offers a spectacular treat for attendees, transporting them into the heart of South Asian culture and cinema.
Adding to the allure, ACMI presents a Cinema Costume and Craft Workshop, a creative space where people of all ages can delve into the art of costume design. Inspired by South Asian films, this workshop is not just a crafting session but a cultural journey, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of South Asian attire and storytelling.
The Diwali celebration at ACMI is part of a broader summer program that promises to engage and inspire. Alongside the Festival of Lights, the centre hosts a multitude of other events that reflect its commitment to cultural diversity and artistic innovation.
Among these is “Angela Tiatia: The Dark Current,” a thought-provoking exhibition commissioned in collaboration with The Ian Potter Cultural Trust. It explores themes of migration and femininity through a blend of digital and physical art forms, inviting visitors to reflect on contemporary societal issues.
In the realm of digital theatre, “Gallery 5” introduces an online hybrid performance by Emile Zile. This novel experience combines live streaming, verbal monologues, and gaming elements, pushing the boundaries of traditional theatre.
The “Marshmallow Laser Feast: Works of Nature” exhibition, opening on 23 November 2023, promises a sensory journey through digital art. Supported by Panasonic and the British Council, this exhibition showcases large-scale artworks that fuse guided meditation with interactive elements, redefining the visitor experience.
“Artificial Eye: Unnatural Perspectives on the Natural World,” co-curated with NOWNESS, is set to open on 2 December. This exhibition offers a unique viewpoint on the natural world, complementing the “Marshmallow Laser Feast” exhibit.
Film enthusiasts can indulge in the Japanese Film Festival from 2-5 November, featuring classic films by Kо̄ Nakahira, a pioneer of the New Wave Movement. This cinematic feast highlights Nakahira’s influential works, including titles like “The Hunter’s Diary” and “Juvenile Jungle.”
Moreover, the ACMI X Works in Progress Night on 8 November opens a window into the evolving projects across film, TV, video games, and art, fostering a space for creative interaction and feedback.
Rounding off the program is “THE MISSION,” a documentary screening on 2 December, chronicling the story of John Chau. The screening will be followed by a Q&A with directors Amanda McBaine and Jesse Moss, offering an insightful exploration of the film’s themes.
ACMI’s summer program, crowned by the Diwali celebrations, represents a cross-cultural mosaic, bringing together various art forms and perspectives. It’s a testament to Melbourne’s diverse cultural fabric, offering residents and visitors alike an opportunity to explore, learn, and celebrate the rich tapestry of global cultures through the lens of cinema and art.
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#ACMI's summer program in #Melbourne includes a vibrant #Diwali🪔 celebration merging cinema & tradition, along with art exhibitions, digital theatre, a film festival, & interactive events. 🎥🎨🌟 #TheIndianSunhttps://t.co/xKu3QYyHwy
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