The concept of metamorphosis is an enduring wellspring for artists across centuries, countries and artforms. Artists understand that change sometimes occurs in surprising and non-linear ways, like a butterfly breaking out of a chrysalis dramatically transforming into something entirely new.

Featuring over 40 works from across AGSA’s collection, many of which have never been seen before, Metamorphosis looks at themes of transformation and change in nature, the body and materials.

‘To everything there is a season’ is a sentiment that acknowledges that everything in fact changes, passes and transitions from one state to another, from one stage to another. Bodies, materials and forms in flux abound in this display which brings together artists from over three thousand years to explore the nature of transformation.