🚉 Public Transport Access
Circular Quay - Cnr Alfred Street and Loftus Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Cost: Free Event*
Dates: 22 May – 13 June – Multiple sessions
Location:Circular Quay – Cnr Alfred Street and Loftus Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Manawan by Darrell Sibosado at Vivid Sydney 2026
Experience a powerful celebration of Aboriginal culture, Country and contemporary artistic expression at Vivid Sydney 2026 with Manawan, a striking large-scale light installation by acclaimed Bardi artist Darrell Sibosado. Located in the heart of Circular Quay, this immersive artwork transforms one of Sydney’s busiest public spaces into a luminous tribute to the landscapes and traditions of the Kimberley region in Western Australia.
Inspired by the majestic Manawan trees, commonly known as woollybutts, the installation pays homage to the cultural, ecological and spiritual significance these towering tropical gum trees hold for the Bardi and Jawi peoples. Through light, scale and symbolism, Sibosado brings a piece of Bardi Jawi Country to Sydney, inviting visitors to reflect on the enduring connection between people, land and culture.
A Forest of Light in Circular Quay
Manawan features seven towering steel sculptures ranging in height from three to six-and-a-half metres. Arranged as a contemporary forest, each structure is illuminated by vertical bands of light that radiate from opposing sides, creating a mesmerising visual effect both during the day and after dark.
The glowing forms evoke the presence and spirit of the woollybutt trees that thrive across the Kimberley landscape. Their radiant illumination symbolises the life force that flows through Country, reflecting themes of healing, resilience, growth and renewal.
As darkness falls over Sydney Harbour, the installation comes alive, casting a warm and restorative glow that encourages visitors to pause, connect and contemplate the stories embedded within the land.
Honouring Bardi Jawi Country
For generations, Manawan trees have played a vital role in the lives of Bardi and Jawi communities. Traditionally used for shelter, tools, weapons and other practical purposes, the trees are also deeply connected to cultural knowledge systems and land management practices.
Shaped through cool-season cultural burning, these remarkable trees stand as symbols of sustainability and the long-standing relationship Aboriginal peoples have maintained with Country for tens of thousands of years.
Through this installation, Darrell Sibosado highlights the importance of preserving and sharing these cultural connections while demonstrating how traditional knowledge continues to inform contemporary Aboriginal life.
Contemporary Aboriginal Art at Vivid Sydney
Making its Vivid Sydney debut, Manawan reflects Sibosado’s ongoing artistic practice, which challenges outdated perceptions of Aboriginal culture as something fixed in the past. Instead, the work presents Aboriginal culture as a living, evolving and dynamic force that continues to shape Australia’s artistic and cultural landscape.
By combining industrial materials, contemporary sculpture and light-based technology with deeply rooted cultural narratives, the installation creates a powerful dialogue between ancient knowledge and modern expression.
The result is a compelling artwork that commands attention while offering visitors an opportunity to engage with Indigenous perspectives through a uniquely immersive experience.
Why Visit Manawan?
- Experience a major new installation by renowned Bardi artist Darrell Sibosado.
- Discover the cultural significance of the Kimberley’s iconic woollybutt trees.
- Enjoy a free Vivid Sydney experience in the heart of Circular Quay.
- Witness a stunning fusion of contemporary sculpture and light art.
- Learn about Aboriginal cultural practices, knowledge and connection to Country.
- Capture spectacular photos against Sydney Harbour’s iconic backdrop.
Event Details
- Event: Manawan
- Artist: Darrell Sibosado
- Festival: Vivid Sydney 2026
- Location: Circular Quay, Sydney NSW 2000
- Dates: 22 May – 13 June 2026
- Sessions: Multiple daily viewings
- Admission: Free
Combining powerful storytelling, Indigenous knowledge and contemporary design, Manawan stands as one of Vivid Sydney 2026’s most meaningful installations. Whether you’re exploring the festival’s celebrated Light Walk or seeking a deeper connection to Australia’s living cultural heritage, this luminous forest offers a memorable and thought-provoking experience for visitors of all ages.
Other Vivid Sydney 2026 Events in Sydney
Related posts:
Our Connected City – Circular Quay – The Rocks, Sydney | 22 May – 13 June, 2026 
Vaiola – Museum of Contemporary Art – Circular Quay, Sydney | 22 May – 13 June, 2026 
Dear You – Campbells Cove – Circular Quay – The Rocks, Sydney | 22 May – 13 June, 2026 
MCA Dining & Cocktails with Vivid Sydney Views – Museum of Contemporary Art, Circular Quay, Sydney | 22 May – 11 June, 2026 
Wonderverse – Australian National Maritime Museum – Sydney | 22 May – 13 June, 2026 
Optik – Vivid Sydney 2026 – Circular Quay – The Rocks, Sydney | 22 May – 13 June, 2026 
Deep Time – Vivid Sydney 2026 – Garrison Church – Sydney | 22 May – 13 June, 2026
