Over the past twelve years, Semi-Permanent has built a highly regarded reputation for its live talks and fringe events – in five countries to date, and with close to half a million attendees – thanks to the eclectic mix of subjects and speakers. Presented as part of Vivid Sydney – the annual multi-sensory event that takes over the city – Semi-Permanent returns in 2015 with, as trusted, an engaging line-up, headlined by creative multi-hyphenate (and Manuscript cover star) Noah Taylor, whose prolific output in recent years has seen his star continue to rise not only as an actor but also musician and critically and commercially successful artist. Other highlights of the forthcoming event, to be held at Carriageworks, include painter Ben Quilty, whose active political and social stance is widely respected; artist Anna Wili Highfield, best known for her elaborate paper sculptures commissioned by Hermes; professional surfer Craig Anderson; and New Zealand-born photographer Murray Fredericks. Held over two days, the presentations will be accompanied by exhibitions, installations, screenings and workshops. Given the popularity of the events, bookings are advised.

Surfboards by Hayden Shapes installed at the Alexander Wang store in New York City.