SYDNEY.- A bold new partnership between the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia and Sydney Airport will see the arrival of a large-scale contemporary art commission for the T1 International terminal’s Marketplace in 2018.

The commission will support an Australian artist to create a new work on a large-scale, creating a unique and memorable statement for passengers as they depart Australia.

Sydney Airport Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kerrie Mather said the work would build on the recent transformation of the terminal which now boasts soaring 17m high ceilings and floor length windows at T1’s Marketplace, located in the departures area.

‘We’re proud to announce this unique and exciting collaboration as we continue to strengthen our commitment to the arts, connecting the airport to Sydney’s vibrant arts culture,’ Ms Mather said.

‘The MCA is an iconic part of Sydney’s arts and cultural community and we look forward to drawing on their cutting edge expertise and network as part of this partnership.

‘Sydney Airport is proud to be nurturing and supporting local artists.’

Museum of Contemporary Art Australia Director Elizabeth Ann Macgregor OBE welcomed the partnership.

‘The MCA is delighted to be working with Sydney Airport on this commission that will connect local and global audiences with the work of a leading contemporary Australian artist,’ Ms Macgregor said.

‘In addition to our wonderful collection and major exhibitions, the MCA has a significant commitment to supporting today’s artists and engaging with communities. This partnership with Sydney Airport allows us to reach beyond the one million visitors we get to the Museum every year.’

More than 42 million passengers travel through Sydney Airport, with about 15 million of those travelling through the T1 International terminal. The commissioned artwork will aim to capture the imagination of passengers as they prepare for their flight, providing a lasting impression ahead of their journey.

The commission will also form a striking addition to Sydney Airport’s very significant existing art collection, which is featured throughout and around the airport terminals.

Given the scale of the project, a number of leading Australian contemporary artists will be specially selected to submit a proposal for the project.

Representatives from the MCA and Sydney Airport will then assess the proposals before announcing the successful artist later this year.

The installation will be completed in 2018.