Daniel Agdag

Daniel Agdag is an artist and filmmaker based in Melbourne/Naarm whose practice is directly and indirectly absorbed by systems and the interactive nature from which they derive their functions and purpose. The work collectively is made by hand into subtle and alluringly delicate forms which carry within hidden narratives, motifs and a unique language which not only drive the ideas but form its aesthetic. His work has been described as ‘architectural in form, whimsical in nature and inconceivably intricate’.

Drawn to the utilitarian origins and monochromatic presentation of his primary material cardboard, he creates a paradox of fragility and strength with structures that resemble architectural forms and machines by using a medium that is essentially paper.

His process is one of simplification, working intuitively without detailed plans or drawings, he begins with a loose idea and builds on it as he works, very much akin to drawing rather than sculpting. Like drawing he removes and remakes elements as he creates the final work. This meandering approach often leads to both unusual forms and interesting juxtapositions which all contribute to the overall aesthetic. Agdag’s preference of pared down tools, palette and materials allow him to be agile in his creative methodology.

He has exhibited solo shows in Melbourne, New York and London and has been presented at several local and international art fairs including Melbourne Art Fair, Sydney Contemporary, Art Central Hong Kong, VOLTA Basel and Art Fair Tokyo. His work is held in private collections in the United States, Japan, Hong Kong, Australia and Europe.

He has presented solo shows at several Australian Institutions, including ‘Miscellaneous Assemblies’ in 2020 at Noosa Regional Gallery, and ‘The Art of Lost Property Office’ at Maitland Regional Art Gallery in 2021. His work was included in the 2019 paper art Biennale at CODA Museum, Netherlands. His large scale work “The Northerly” was acquired by McClelland Gallery and is currently held in their collection as well as works held by the Merode collection in Belgium.

He has completed several private commissions, notably for Hermès Paris in 2014, 2019 as well as a special collaboration as Scenographer for the Petit h 2021 Sydney Stopover. The first Australian artist to do so. A large scale outdoor public commission ‘The Inspector’ – a steel installation for Hampton, in Abbotsford, Melbourne. He was commissioned by the department of New York City cultural Affairs to create the work ‘Lattice’ in 2022 for the Collection of the NYC Department of Education, Public Art for Public Schools. His works were most recently featured as part of Homo Faber in Venice.

In addition to his art practice, Agdag is an accomplished film maker. He is a triple Sydney Film Festival Dendy Award winner, as well as two time nominated and 2017 winner of the prestigious AFI / AACTA Award. His film Lost Property Office was shortlisted for the 2018 Academy Award for Best Short Animation, and has screened globally.