The Gold Coast’s signature contemporary arts event, BLEACH*, is set to return in 2025 with a renewed vision and a vibrant showcase of over 100 events across 11 days, from 31 July to 10 August. Under the creative direction of guest Artistic Director and acclaimed visual artist Michael Zavros, this year’s program promises bold expression and artistic ambition across the city.
Set against the backdrop of iconic Gold Coast locations including HOTA, Kurrawa Beach and Emerald Lakes, the festival will feature a dynamic mix of performance, art, music, dance and food experiences. The program includes more than 20 curated shows and introduces three world premieres created on the Gold Coast, alongside five Queensland premieres and a host of standout works from across the country.
“We’ve dreamed big this year—pushing for bold, ambitious moments—and it’s exciting to see those ideas realised in such powerful ways,” said Zavros. “BLEACH* continues to play a vital role in the Gold Coast’s arts and culture scene, and this year’s program is a true reflection of the city’s creative spirit and growing artistic ambition.”
Among the highlights is the breathtaking return of Patricia Piccinini’s Skywhale and Skywhalepapa, which will soar across the sky at sunrise on opening day in a dreamlike display of nurture and community. Also making its way to the coast is Kirsha Kaechele’s Ladies Lounge, a provocative live artwork blending performance, poetry and feminist dialogue, presented for the first time outside MONA at HOTA Gallery.
Kurrawa Beach will become the stage for Cavalcade, a grand fusion of opera, classical music and equestrian artistry, featuring champion dressage riders John Thompson and Katharine Farrell. Meanwhile, the world premiere of Breaking Into Heaven—Selve’s new album performed live with the Australian Session Orchestra and Karul Projects’ dancers—will transform HOTA into a pulsating open-air arena of music, visuals and movement.
The festival also offers a rare and exclusive In Conversation with globally renowned artist Jeff Koons, presented in collaboration with the National Gallery and the American Friends of the National Gallery of Australia. Koons will share insights into his iconic career and boundary-pushing artistic journey.
Community energy pulses through Drum As You Are, a Sunday session tribute that will reimagine Nirvana’s seminal albums on the HOTA Lawn with professional and community drummers.
Minister for the Arts John Paul Langbroek praised the scope of the festival: “Boasting an impressive program with more than 100 events and five World Premieres… the festival showcases our state’s vibrant arts and cultural scene.” Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell added, “Events like these are great attractions for locals, and we know interstate and international visitors plan their visits to Queensland with events like these in mind.”
Acting Mayor Mark Hammel echoed the enthusiasm: “Bleach has been an integral part in our city's arts and cultural storybook for 14 years and I know the 2025 festival will not disappoint. Prepare for 11 days of ‘wow’ moments and memories to last a lifetime.”
With a strong focus on accessibility, inclusivity and place-based storytelling, BLEACH* 2025 is poised to be a must-see celebration of Australia’s creative edge and the Gold Coast’s ever-evolving cultural identity.
