THE Canberra public is invited to a Champagne and canapé event this Friday to mark the closing of the of the Canberra Centre art collaboration with artist Benjamin Shine.

Before leaving for a new project in New York, Shine will provide a final overview of his artwork titled ‘The Dance’, inspired in part by Canberra dancer Alison Plevey, who will be performing a contemporary piece at the event with fellow-dancer Jessica Ausserlechner.

‘The Dance’ is said to have seen Shine push his tulle artwork to new limits. In it, a white circular vessel releases a smoke-like plume of tulle high into the air, engulfing the ceiling above. The colours converge to form two large faces and a series of dancing figures, silhouetted within the flowing fabric as if suspended in motion. The piece impressively utilises over 2000 metres of tulle constructed by folding and hand sewing the fabric into place.

‘There is a growing desire, especially by the leading fashion brands, to introduce art and culture to their customers, as it brings an entirely new and unexpected dimension to the experience,’ Shine said before his installation was opened.

Ben Shine cocktail farewell, at the David Jones and Laura Ashley forecourt on Level 1 of the Canberra Centre this Friday, May 22.The evening is open to the public and is a free event. Members of the public can reserve their space by emailing marketing@canberracentre.com.au