City and country life collide in latest art exhibition at NSW Parliament

1 June 2021

Art in the House

When you think 'parliament', do you think art? Get ready to challenge your expectations of what can be found inside the walls of NSW Parliament House this June, with visitors being treated to the vibrant and texture-filled works of Hornsby artist Carmonn French.

Carmonn's exhibition, titled Clear Away the Dust, is on display 9am to 5pm weekdays, from 1 June until 1 July. It's one in a series of free exhibitions that can be seen throughout the year, with the parliament's central Fountain Court area transformed with new artworks and informative displays each month.

"I was really surprised to learn that inside its historic walls, our parliament hosts modern and interesting exhibitions that anyone can come in to see – and I'm so excited to now be part of the program," Carmonn said.

"I grew up in a small town near the Murrumbidgee River, and what people will see at the heart of my exhibition is the contrast between city and country. I've spent a large part of my life travelling between Sydney and my hometown, and that strange feeling of being torn between two locations is something I've tried to capture in my paintings." 

The exhibition is being hosted by the Honourable Matt Kean, Minister for Energy and Environment and Carmonn's local member in the Legislative Assembly. 

"As the Member for Hornsby, it's been a privilege to help the work of a local artist be showcased through Parliament's fantastic exhibition program," Minister Kean said. "Clear Away the Dust features thought-provoking images, and if you're coming into the city or can make the trip in just for this, I really encourage you to see it. If you can't make it in person, you can also see the worksonline."

Learn more about Clear Away the Dust – and access a virtual tour of Carmonn's work shortly – at www.bit.ly/clear-away-the-dust.

Visitor information: Visit NSW Parliament House at 6 Macquarie Street, Sydney on weekdays from 9am to 5pm. Entry is via the gatehouse to the left of the building, with all visitors required to pass through security. The Fountain Court can be found just beyond the reception desks. Dining options at Parliament include fine dining and high tea at Strangers Restaurant (bookings essential), with casual fare available at the Public Café.