World Premiere
Smoke that brings healing.
Song that carries story.
Design that holds Country and brings all together.
Held is a series of sculptural works designed by Yuwaalaraay Wirringgaa and Designer Lucy Simpson. Four forms designed to honour land, sky and sea Country from across each of the four pillars, in a grounded moment of convergence.
Guided by the seasons and activated through breath, this work holds space for a powerful message lifted by winds, carried across waterways and amplified through the voices of many.
With the support of the Sydney Festival's First Nations team and production unit, and developed in collaboration with cultural practitioners and storymakers Nardi Simpson and Uncle Matthew Doyle, Held comes to life at sunset through song and smoke during the Festival’s cultural closing on the eve of 26 January – honouring strength, continuity, belonging, relationships, cycles of regeneration – and that which was, is, and always will be.
“Through my work I create and tell stories in ways that can often transcend words and language, flowing from deep within my bones” LUCY SIMPSON
As part of the Sydney Festival 2026
Event Details:
Dates: 8-25 Jan 2026
Location: Barangaroo Reserve
Notes: This is a free event. No registration is required.