FROM RUN CLUBS TO NIGHT CLUBS: NEW EXHIBTION SHOWCASES NSW NIGHTLIFE | Powerhouse

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The Holding Pen

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The Agricultural Hall

Regional Networks

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Across New South Wales

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Technological Museum

Expanding Stories

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Transforming the Tramsheds

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Powerhouse Stage 1 and the Harwood Building

A Symbol in Time

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Powerhouse Ultimo

Applied Arts and Sciences

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Media Release

25 February 2026

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FROM RUN CLUBS TO NIGHT CLUBS: NEW EXHIBITION SHOWCASES NSW NIGHTLIFE

Powerhouse and the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner present NSW at Night; a new photography exhibition to be presented at NSW Parliament House from 3-26 March.

NSW photographers Andrew Quilty, Tajette O’Halloran, Anthony Rigby-Smith and Jade D’Amico have been commissioned to document the state’s rich and diverse night-time culture across Sydney’s inner city, Western Sydney, Wollongong and the Northern Rivers. The result is a series of portraits depicting the people, places and rhythms that define our state at night.

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Six-time Walkley Award-winning photojournalist Quilty’s commission captures fleeting encounters and quiet moments across Sydney’s train network. O’Halloran has documented youth culture and rites of passage in the Northern Rivers. Illawarra-based Rigby-Smith’s photographs reveal the physical exertion, triumph and camaraderie of Wollongong’s evening run clubs while D’Amico immersed themself within Sydney’s music and club culture, capturing the energy and diversity of our NSW communities.

Andrew Quilty said, ‘I've always been drawn to photographing people in transit, whether it be refugees crossing borders, soldiers driving toward or returning from a frontline, or my own friends on a road trip. Similarly, these photographs represent a liminal period, characterised by the commuter's anticipation of what's ahead or memory of what has been, rather than as worthy of note in their own right. More than that, the series provides an unscientific, demographic cross-section of Sydney, or at least of those who use its rail network.’

Tajette O’Halloran said, ‘Being commissioned by Powerhouse to document nightlife in the Northern Rivers over the past 12 months has been incredibly inspiring. While closely aligned with my existing practice, the commission pushed me into new directions and clarified where I want my work to go next. I’m driven by telling regional stories, and this project has only deepened my commitment to exploring these worlds beyond the frame of the commission.’

24-Hour Economy Commissioner Michael Rodrigues said, ‘These photos capture just some of the diverse activities, offerings and nightlife precincts across NSW. Our State of the Night report found that people are seeking more activities after dark, from exercise and recreation to music and movies, and these images capture that vibrancy. We are proud to partner with Powerhouse on this exhibition showcasing just a few of the authentic stories that shape the NSW night-time economy.’

Powerhouse Chief Executive Lisa Havilah said, ‘NSW at Night provides an insight into the state’s diverse night-time culture through a series of photographs from four standout photographers. Powerhouse is thrilled to support this exhibition, showcasing the diverse night-time activity and photographic practice present across NSW.’

Visit the NSW at Night at Parliament House from 9am-5pm on weekdays from 3 – 26 March. For more information visit http://www.powerhouse.com.au/program/nsw-at-night.

EXHIBITION DETAILS

Fountain Court, Parliament of NSW

3-26 March

Weekdays 9-5pm

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Media Contacts

Zachary Grant

zachary.grant@powerhouse.com.au 0413 703 401

Erin Finn

erin.finn@powerhouse.com.au 0413 538 276

About Powerhouse

Powerhouse sits at the intersection of arts, design, science and technology and plays a critical role in engaging communities with contemporary ideas and issues. We are undertaking a landmark $1.2 billion infrastructure renewal program, spearheaded by the creation of the new museum, Powerhouse Parramatta; expanded research and public facilities at Powerhouse Castle Hill; the renewal of the iconic Powerhouse Ultimo; and the ongoing operation of Sydney Observatory. The museum is custodian to over half a million objects of national and international significance and is considered one of the finest and most diverse collections in Australia. We are also undertaking an expansive digitisation project that will provide new levels of access to the Powerhouse Collection.

About The Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner

The Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner is committed to building safe, vibrant and diverse 24-hour economies statewide. Underpinned by the 24-Hour Economy Strategy, dedicated teams in Programs, Policy, Engagement and Strategy are working to implement initiatives and programs that support this vision. By collaborating with industry, initiatives such as the Vibrancy Reforms, Uptown District Acceleration Program, Live Performance Venue Program, Special Entertainment Precincts and Purple Flag aim to benefit everyone across NSW, positioning the state and Sydney as global leaders in the night-time economy.