The importance of the arts cannot be undervalued, and to celebrate them, we must give all forms the attention and support they deserve, and the artists the praise they deserve. Writings, paintings, sculptures, dance, drama, great plays and legendary novels – and so many more rich art forms, all intimately woven into our culture and identity as both humans and Australians. Without the arts, we wouldn’t have a clue who we are, or where we’ve come from, or indeed, where we’re headed. Horizon Arts Festival is returning once again to celebrate all things Art, and give a ‘stage’ to voices and visions we might otherwise have missed. From August 23rd until the 1st of September 2019, the Sunshine Coast will be treated to 10 days of incredible acts, performances and showcases of talent from our very own backyards and beyond. With select international guests accompanying the best local and national artists and performers, Horizon has something to inspire, challenge, or change all manner of a patron of the arts.

The Horizon festival offers an incredible selection of events, from performances and showcases to classes and talks to get you up and creating art of your own. For example, running the entire duration of the festival is Elements. An ephemeral sculpture exhibition set amongst the stunning backdrop of the Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Gardens, Elements will take you on a tour of five contemporary artist’s explorations and interpretations of nature and place. The magnificent Gardens will be transformed from a natural paradise to a contemporary outdoor gallery, exhibiting artworks and installations from leading local and national artists who have drawn inspiration from the elements; fire, earth, air, and water. Complemented by a public program of curated artist workshops, tours and talks, locals and visitors alike will enjoy a unique sensory experience in a beautiful bush setting, while also having the opportunity to experience and learn new skills across a range of artistic disciplines.

Through Art we push boundaries – add some game changing modern technology, and you get something truly special. Lighting up Festival Central in Maroochydore, Mountain is a stunning performance which combines aerial theatre with cutting edge interactive technology. Exploring society’s increasing dependence on technology and the effect it’s having on the world and biosphere around us. Four performers seamlessly meld acrobatics, dance and aerials to create a captivating spectacle. After the show, you’re invited to play with the interactive projection system and rediscover the environment, wildlife and our relationship to it. In my shoes: Intimacy is a 360-degree virtual reality experience that explores the power of human connection. Put aside your inhibitions, sit down with another person and look into their eyes. Let these strangers guide you through their impromptu, unconventional and intense moments of intimacy through virtual reality. In my shoes: Intimacy is a first-person documentary by immersive-theatre creator Jane Gauntlett that tells the stories of two strangers, two comrades and two lovers. It explores the importance of intimacy in survival, relationships and sexuality from a first-person perspective. In my shoes is an ever-expanding collection of first-person, documentary style interactive performances, which guide participants through the beautiful, the challenging, the mundane and the surreal aspects of being human.

With well over 60 events spread over the ten-day event, there is something for everyone – from stand up comedy, to traditional visual arts, to ballet, to writers classes and so much more, far too much to tell you about here.

For a full list of events and more information on the festival itself, be sure the check out the official Horizon festival website here.