The Asia–Pacific’s leading contemporary art event the Biennale of Sydney today announced it’s Principal Patron, the Neilson Foundation, has made an extended commitment to supporting the Biennale through its 21st and 22nd editions.

In welcoming the Neilson Foundation’s ongoing support, Biennale of Sydney Chairman Kate Mills said; “We are extremely grateful for the Neilson Foundation’s endorsement of the Biennale’s future vision and for making it possible for the organisation to build on a solid base as it plans toward its next two editions. Our ambitious plans can only be realised with the visionary support of generous supporters such as the Neilson Foundation. We commend the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to supporting the artists of today and ensuring contemporary art and ideas are accessible to everyone.”

Mr Kerr Neilson of the Neilson Foundation said, “The Biennale of Sydney is Australia’s pre-eminent independent contemporary art event and we are delighted to continue as a principal partner and invest in its future. The Biennale provides an important international platform for contemporary art and supports the exploration of new ideas and venues, including the organisation’s reputation for enlivening the city by using unusual sites to display artworks. The internationally recognised Cockatoo Island in Sydney Harbour is a fine example of how the Biennale has transformed the city and offered visitors unique insights into the most engaging art of our times. We hope this donation will encourage others to join us in giving generously to the Biennale.”

The Neilson Foundation provides financial assistance to a range of organisations in Australia and has supported the Biennale of Sydney since 2010. The Neilson Foundation was announced as the Biennale of Sydney’s inaugural Principal Patron in November 2014.

The 21st Biennale of Sydney (2018) will be curated under the artistic direction of Mami Kataoka and will be presented from March to June 2018. The 22nd edition will take place in 2020.

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ABOUT THE BIENNALE OF SYDNEY: Since its inception in 1973, the Biennale of Sydney has provided a platform for art and ideas, showcasing the work of nearly 1,800 artists from more than 100 countries. Today it is considered one of the leading international contemporary art events, recognised for commissioning and presenting innovative, thought provoking art from Australia and around the world. With an average of 40 percent of visits made by people from outside of Sydney, the Biennale holds an important place on both the national and international stage.