It’s that time again! Perth’s hottest ticket that celebrates all things art is back and is already looking as electric as ever. Ahead of this Saturday’s highly anticipated Art Ball, we were lucky enough to have a chat with the Ball’s Director himself ,Grant Capriotti, about what the theme Electric Dreams really means to him and how Perth’s iconic AGWA is being transformed for the event.

Tickets are selling fast so make sure you follow the link at the bottom and grab yourself one before this Saturday.

What does the theme ‘Electric Dreams’ mean to you?

This year we really wanted to showcase the best of Western Australia; on the main stage, around the building, and throughout the event. ‘Electric Dreams’ is all about shining a light on WA talent; illuminating the best of WA’s music, art and performance talent. Even the food, wine and beer will showcase fresh WA produce in the most delicious way possible.

Which of the musical acts do you think best represents the theme for the ball?

All of them! San Cisco, Feels, Priscilla and Aslan were all selected because of the special ‘Electric Dreams’ X-factor they have.

How important is to you that you have local artists and bands perform? 

Very important. We want the best for the event and the best is right here on our own doorstep. I think it’s important to create opportunities for local West Australian artists, and give them a platform to perform somewhere a bit different.

We love that Art Ball is held at such an iconic venue as AGWA. How are you making this year’s ball artistically different from the previous ones?

This year is heavier on floorshows, activations and installations that previous years, which is really exciting. The theme really lends itself to being able to create some amazing visual experiences too. It means that there is lots for guests to do and see, sensory experiences in overdrive!

You have Soprano Pia Harris performing. How do you think traditional opera fits in with the contemporary themes of Electric Dreams and the annual art ball?

Absolutely. The event is themed in a modern way, but it’s still an event being held inside and celebrating our State Gallery. The combination of classic and contemporary is what makes Art Ball so special, it’s what so many of the guests love about it. There’s something for everyone. The closing, finale opera number by the West Australian Opera is an Art Ball tradition and seeing people revel in that moment is a sight to behold.

What is the easiest way to make art provocative? 

I’m not sure there’s a simple answer for that question! I’d say part of it is creating works that challenge the perceptions of the person consuming the art work. An individual’s life experiences determine if they provoked by an art work, it all in the eye of the beholder.

Are you hoping to see any style links between the electric dreams red carpet and this year’s Met Gala theme of “Camp”?

Similar to the Met Gala, Art Ball is the black-tie event in Perth where people are encouraged to use their creativity to hit the black-tie rules while playing to their own personal style. Perth really embraces it too, there aren’t many events here that allows for overt creative expression in an evening wear situation. Given the bright, colourful and irreverent overtones a theme like Electric Dreams has, we’re expecting people to take a lot of inspiration from the Met Gala’s Camp themed red carpet this year.

 Tickets:

https://artgallerywa.iwannaticket.com.au/event/art-ball-2019-MTY2NjI