Situated in new and found sites within Fremantle (Western Australia), The Biennale presents invited Australian and international artists who respond to and work with the history, landscape and communities that make-up the rich tapestry of Fremantle.

The Fremantle Biennale creates a platform for the development and presentation of nationally and internationally recognised and experimental site-responsive contemporary art practices; promotes cultural dialogues and exchange of ideas through a program of local, national and international artists, intersecting with our audiences and visitors; reveal, interrogate and celebrate the cultural, social and historical distinctiveness of Fremantle.

Home to the traditional Nyoongar owners, Fremantle’s location on the edge of the Indian Ocean is a trade hub with an idiosyncratic and colourful history. Fremantle’s European history dates to1828 with the town since clinging to the limestone in the face of the roaring South Westerly (the Fremantle Doctor). Growing through mineral resource booms and busts, the wonderful cultural mix layered by migrant flows has laid the foundations of a creative town with a history of galleries and studios and one of the best cafe, pub and music scenes anywhere.

The Fremantle Biennale adds to this history, commissioning ephemeral site-specific work which responds to the transience and transitional flow of a port town. The Biennale presents a distinct visual arts program that builds on Fremantle’s reputation as a creative city.

The first incarnation of the Fremantle Biennale, HIGH TIDE 17 was sited at the iconic Round House, the Whaler’s Tunnel, High St, Cliff St, Mouat St, the Port Authority Building, Bathers Bay, PSAS, The University of Notre Dame, The WA Maritime Museum, The Lysaght Atrium (Quest Fremantle), Blank Space (Mills Record Store), and the Princess Chambers Basement (Kakulas Sister).

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