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 have 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, recently ‘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 piece “The Northerly” was
acquired by McClelland Gallery and is currently held in their collection. He is a
finalist in the 2025 Woollahra Small Sculpture prize.
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.
A large scale outdoor public commission ‘The Inspector’ – a steel installation for
Hampton, in Abbotsford, Melbourne. He installed his most recent commission ‘Lattice’ in
2022 in New York, P.S. 70, a Collection of the NYC Department of Education, Public Art
for Public Schools.
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.