Lighting of the Sails: Kiss of Light

Animation by VANDAL | Soundtrack by Stereogamous

by David McDiarmid 

The striking, kaleidoscopic artwork of pioneering Australian visual artist and queer activist David McDiarmid (1955-1995), animated by creative technologists VANDAL, will illuminate the Sydney Opera House sails during Vivid Sydney from 23 May – 14 June 2025.

Pulsing with energy and the dream of the underground, Kiss of Light celebrates David McDiarmid’s specific alchemy of lust, rage and hope. Marking 30 years since the artist’s death in 1995 of AIDS-related illnesses, the seven-minute projection will showcase McDiarmid’s queer and distinctly Sydney-inspired aesthetic of vibrant technicolour markings, swirling fabrics and prismatic forms. The evocative animation will trace his camp, punk sensibility through iconic works like Rainbow Aphorisms, Bedsheet Paintings and Disco Kwilts, depicting the dynamism of McDiarmid’s bold activism as a provocation to celebrate equality, joy and freedom.

The work will be soundtracked by celebrated Australian electronic duo Stereogamous, a collaboration between music producers, sound stylists, activists and agathists, Paul Mac and Jonny Seymour.

McDiarmid’s close friend, executor and co-curator, Dr Sally Gray, said: “I’ve always wanted David’s work to be prominently shown in Sydney, the city in which he evolved his unique fusion of queer political activism and aesthetic sensibility, and Kiss of Light is a spectacular realisation of this desire. Working in collaboration with Vivid Sydney’s Gill Minervini and Sydney Opera House’s Micheal Do, we selected works made by David in Sydney and New York in the 1980s and 90s. With VANDAL’s creative technology team, David’s art is reconfigured in a new animated form, highlighting his creative intensity, fierce intelligence and provocative playfulness. David often expressed a hope that his work would speak to future generations. Kiss of Light ensures that his work and his political vision of joy, hope and human dignity for all is shared with millions.”

A unique, one-off conversation with artist and activist Paul Yore and Dr Sally Gray will take place in the Utzon Room on Monday 26 May. Sydney Opera House Contemporary Art Senior Curator Micheal Do will host the special event, offering deep insights into the life and work of David McDiarmid – his fearless creative rebellion, advocacy and legacy – through the perspectives of both the custodian of his estate and an artist profoundly influenced by his legacy. Free talk, registrations essential.

Minister for Jobs and Tourism, the Hon. Steve Kamper MP, said: “This year, Lighting of the Sails honours the extraordinary legacy of David McDiarmid, whose bold artwork and activism continue to inspire 30 years after his untimely passing. Kiss of Light illustrates the power of art to inspire meaningful conversations and celebrate our diverse communities. I invite tourists and locals alike to experience this dazzling display at Circular Quay and discover the full wonder of Vivid Sydney, as our harbour city once again shines as a beacon of creativity and innovation.”

Vivid Sydney Festival Director, Gill Minervini, said: “Having worked with David and being witness to his incredible artistry first hand, this year’s Lighting of the Sails is extra special. Although at first glance David’s story might seem tragic, we feel Kiss of Light will inspire hope and positivity. With some beautiful animation techniques adapted as part of the projection, we can’t wait to showcase this beautiful work to the millions set to visit Vivid Sydney this winter.”

Sydney Opera House Head of Contemporary Music and Vivid LIVE curator, Ben Marshall, said: “We’re incredibly proud to adorn the Opera House sails with David McDiarmid’s stunning artwork for Vivid Sydney. Kiss of Light represents a collision of past and present — celebrating an artist whose radical vision helped shape Australian counterculture. McDiarmid’s work remains startlingly relevant, with its expressions of identity, love and protest now amplified on an unprecedented scale. With VANDAL’s innovative animation and Stereogamous’ evocative soundtrack, this Lighting of the Sails doesn’t just honour McDiarmid’s legacy 30 years after his passing — it turns our iconic sails into a symbol of diversity, creativity and self-expression.”

VANDAL Creative Director, Chris Scott, said: “Bringing David McDiarmid’s work to life in motion is both a huge privilege and responsibility. His art is a defiant declaration of identity, love and protest. Animating David’s life’s work on the sails of the Opera House is about more than creating a spectacle – it’s about carrying his vision into the present and ensuring his voice remains as unfiltered, unapologetic and as urgent as ever.”

Visitors who are blind or have low vision are invited with their companions to listen to a live audio description of the lighting of the sails, with sessions on Tuesday 10 and Thursday 12 June at 6pm. Registrations are free and essential. For more audio description videos of Vivid Sydney, please visit the Vivid Sydney website.

Lighting of the Sails is co-curated by the Sydney Opera House and Destination NSW.