Bruce Johnson McLean appointed Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain First Nations Curatorial Fellow
Bruce Johnson McLean. Photograph: Daniel Boud.
The Biennale of Sydney has announced the first details of its 25th edition, set to take place from 14 March – 14 June 2026. Key highlights include the return of the Biennale to White Bay Power Station as a primary venue and the appointment of Bruce Johnson McLean as the next Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain First Nations Curatorial Fellow.
As part of the Biennale’s ongoing partnership with Visionary Partner, Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain, Bruce Johnson McLean has been appointed the Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain First Nations Curatorial Fellow. A member of the Wierdi people of Wribpid, McLean is a leading figure in First Nations art and culture, with over 25 years of experience as a curator, writer, and advisor. His previous roles include Assistant Director of First Nations at the National Gallery of Australia and Curator of Indigenous Australian Art at the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art.
Established in 2023, the curatorial fellowship was first held by artist Tony Albert, who collaborated with 14 First Nations artists in the 2024 edition. McLean will build on this foundation, working closely with First Nations artists commissioned for the 2026 Biennale. These artists will be announced in the coming months.
The 2026 Biennale will again activate White Bay Power Station, Sydney’s newest arts and cultural venue. The Biennale was the first significant event to transform the restored space in 2024, drawing more than 174,000 visitors to the site—making it the most attended non-museum venue in the event’s history.
Biennale of Sydney Chief Executive Officer Barbara Moore stated: “The Biennale of Sydney was the first cultural organisation to bring White Bay Power Station to life, transforming this iconic landmark into a dynamic hub for community events and exhibitions of international calibre. We are proud to return in 2026 and continue shaping one of Sydney’s most exciting creative precincts.”
Hoor Al Qasimi, Artistic Director of the 25th Biennale of Sydney, highlighted the event’s commitment to fostering meaningful cultural exchange. “The Biennale of Sydney has long provided a platform for artists to share their stories and challenge perceptions. Bruce Johnson McLean’s appointment is a vital step in ensuring that First Nations voices remain central to this dialogue.”
McLean added: “I am honoured to work with the Biennale of Sydney and the Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain, two organisations with a long and proud history of supporting First Nations artists internationally. The 2026 edition will be an important moment for First Nations art and artists globally.”
A spokesperson for Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain reaffirmed the organisation’s dedication to this partnership: “Our collaboration with the Biennale of Sydney continues to champion First Nations artists and perspectives. We look forward to the inspiring projects ahead.”
NSW Minister for the Arts John Graham welcomed the return of the Biennale to White Bay Power Station: “It’s exciting to have this former power station activated for major cultural events. The scale and setting provide a stunning backdrop for contemporary art, making it an unmissable experience for audiences in Sydney and beyond.”
The Biennale has also renewed its partnership with Inner West Council to engage Sydney’s creative communities further. Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne stated: “The return of the Biennale of Sydney to White Bay Power Station marks another step in establishing the Inner West as a premier arts destination.”
With artistic direction led by Hoor Al Qasimi, the 25th Biennale of Sydney will run from 14 March – 14 June 2026, with further details to be announced. For more information, visit the Biennale of Sydney.
