The Australian Centre for Contemporary Art (ACCA) in Melbourne has unveiled a provocative new exhibition titled 'Are You Lonely Tonight?', which delves into the pervasive experience of loneliness in the modern age. The show, running until September 2026, features works by over 20 artists from Australia and abroad, exploring themes such as bed rot, doomscrolling, and the paradox of hyper-connectivity.
Exhibition Highlights and Themes
Curator Max Delany described the exhibition as a response to the 'epidemic of loneliness' declared by the World Health Organization in 2023. 'We wanted to create a space where visitors can confront these feelings without judgment,' Delany said. 'The artworks range from the deeply personal to the political, reflecting how loneliness is shaped by social media, urban design, and economic pressures.'
One standout piece is 'Bed Rot' by Sydney artist Mia Salsjö, a installation featuring a disheveled bed surrounded by screens displaying endless social media feeds. Another is 'Doomscroll' by Melbourne-based collective Digital Detox, which uses AI-generated imagery to simulate the experience of scrolling through distressing news.
Statistics and Impact
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, nearly one in four Australians report feeling lonely, with rates highest among young adults. The exhibition aims to spark conversations about this growing issue, offering interactive elements such as a 'loneliness hotline' where visitors can leave anonymous voice messages.
'Art has the power to make us feel seen,' said Delany. 'We hope this exhibition encourages people to reach out and connect.'
