Bunnies intrude Perth art scene

First we had the Perth International Arts Festival and a visit from the Giants, now in Perth we have the Fiesta Festival. On the foreshore at Sir James Mitchell Park, at home in their new patch, 5 oversized luminous rabbits, could easily be the forgotten pets from the Giants. Nestling into their new home these glowing rabbits are commanding attention and luring children and adults with their presence. Standing tall, wafting in the breeze, the 7 metre high inflatable, illuminated white rabbits were created by artist Amanda Parer.

We first saw Amanda’s rabbits in Sydney during Vivid last year and we were so excited to hear they were hopping over to Perth. These amazing rabbits, having broken through the rabbit proof fence and now resting on the South Perth foreshore, are part of the temporary installation ‘Intrude’. Amanda’s works explore the natural world, its vulnerability and the effect on the environment.  These humongous bunnies are as adorable as the real thing. They perfectly symbolise the beautiful but fragile world and the role we play.

“They are a bit like the elephant in the room. We know it is there but we don’t talk about it. We’re aware of what we are doing to nature but we put it aside.” – Amanda Parer

There is nothing better to stir up childhood memories of hugging pets than little white as snow bunnies, but this aptly titled exhibition of gigantic rabbits is a reminder of the destruction caused by feral animals to the surroundings.  Instead of being small and cuddly these giant rabbits draw attention and promote awareness to the effect on the natural environment.

Recently Intrude exhibited at London’s Southbank Winter Festival, Sydney’s Dinner En Blanc and Vivid Festival and Gent’s Light Festival in Belgium. It again brings Perth to the front to have Amanda’s display at the Fiesta Festival in Perth, Western Australia as these bunnies intrude Perth art scene.

Perth residents have shown a growing hunger for arts and culture in recent years and are now seeing many boutique and tailored events.  Another crowd pleasing event will be held over the Easter weekend, April 4-6, The Fremantle Street Arts Festival.

These adorable white bunnies have been gracing the foreshore since March 15 and after their Perth debut ends March 21, they will be hopping across to France, UK and US. Keep your eye out for the unique outdoor installation at the Yellow Mill in Paris, Beakerhead in Calgary Canada, Easter Festival in Aberdeen Scotland, Avantgarden Festival in Maroochydore Queensland, the Aarhus Festival in Denmark and the Icastica Art Festival in Italy to see these inflatable giants.

Where in the world have you seen this wonderful display?