Following the incredible success of aMBUSH at Central Park in Sydney, Wiltshire + Dimas launched a new aMBUSH Gallery, this time venturing into fresh territory at Kambri, the Australian National University’s incredible new $260 million redevelopment in Canberra.

aMBUSH Gallery at Kambri opened its doors in May 2019, with a culturally significant inaugural exhibition, While You Were Sleeping, featuring the work of contemporary First Nations artists from across Australia.

The new gallery is located in the stunning Kambri Cultural Centre, which is also under the management of W+D.

While You Were Sleeping was an evocative and emotional display of works across a range of art practices, including painting, illustration, photography and sculpture, from featured artists Benita Clements, Blak Douglas, Damien Shen, David Cragg, Elizabeth Close, Julie Dowling, Michael Cook, Noni Cragg, Otis Carey, Robert Fielding, Shane ‘Mankitya’ Kookaburra, Warraba Weatherall, and Wayne Quilliam.

Also on show to the public that night was the stunning new event spaces at Kambri, which are available to the general public for commercial hire, and where aMBUSH Gallery will host artists talks, film screenings, music and other creative events.

The intention for Kambri is to become an inclusive cultural space for local and international artists, and to bring a diverse program of great artists, thinkers, and makers; a kind of melting pot for the Arts.

The launch party and inaugural exhibition for While You Were Sleeping was held on the evening of Thursday, 23 May, with a Welcome to Country ceremony hosted by Ngunawal elder Wally Bell, plus music from Canberra-based DJ Blanket, and local wine and beer.

While You Were Sleeping was produced and presented by aMBUSH Gallery and ran daily until 11 July.