A Conversation with Edward Woodley from China Heights

Since it's injection almost 20 years ago China Heights (run by Edward Woodley and Nina Treffkorn) has been an essential force in nurturing the local Sydney arts and creative scenes, involving themselves with various events and showcasing both established and up-and-coming artists from the local community and international art world.

We asked Edward about the background of the gallery and his insight into the Sydney creative community.

Supply: Tell us where the name “China Heights” came from?

Edward: The name China Heights is a geographical reference to where we are located, paying homage to the original Chinatown of Surry Hills, before it was moved to Haymarket. We imagined what a subway station would be called if it was at our address, as we're on the boundary between Chinatown & Surry Hills.

Supply: The origins of China Heights have a deeply rooted connection with the Sydney community, how do you feel about the bond you have created with this city?

Edward: Beyond being a gallery, we are a creative studio and central hub for visual artists, musicians, and fashion designers etc. At any given time we're involved with various exhibitions, activations, events & creative happenings. As per most "creatives", people tend to have more than one discipline or outlet, and we offer a platform or vehicle for this community to participate. Sydney ultimately is a transient place, which creates a rich stream of ideas and opportunities. By being born and raised in the city, it's allowed us to take root, and grow with Sydney as it expands into an internationally recognised city.

Supply: Any standout moments from the early days that have stuck there with being special for you?

Edward: It would be impossible to pinpoint a single moment or event that stands out, as we feel incredibly honoured to have worked with literally 1000's of amazing people over the years. Anything from working with grad students to established Australian artists, or first timers to international big names, all are of equal significance and importance to us.

Supply: Having been around for close to 20 years now. What are some cultural and artistic changes The Heights has noticed throughout the years?

Edward: From our establishment of the space in 2002, we've seen various trends and cycles come and go. Be it the rise of urban art to the mainstream, the boom in digital photography with easy access to digital technology/affordable printing, the aggressive resurgence of film-based photography, the return of the "painter" and paintings on walls, to ceramics and pottery morphing from kitsch to en vogue. This has also been paralleled sonically & in fashion, from mainstream to DIY, to mainstream embracing DIY and so forth.  What's been most important is to stay nimble and acknowledge cultural and artistic shifts, but to remain authentic to our identity and consistent with our community.

Supply: What do you think had a profound impact on these cultural changes?

Edward: A few things have significantly contributed to these cultural changes, but primarily the rise and access to the internet. This gave everyone immediate access to information and portable communication. Although the quest for knowledge still exists, people can sidestep the gatekeepers. It's neither good nor bad, just a societal adjustment and hopefully encourages inclusivity.

Supply: You have a strong reputation internationally and roots, not only in Sydney but U.S.A and Europe too, how was this developed?

Edward: Like any subculture or a specific community, those people are attracted to each other regardless of borders. We've always worked with, collaborated, and partnered with Internationals, purely to broaden our visibility, which in turn promotes and exposes our community to a worldwide audience. We always "think globally, act locally" :)

Supply: It feels like a real challenge now for creatives to find time, space and finances to endure a career in art, any advice for creatives going forward?

Edward: Now more than ever is the time to create art. The obstacles of time, space and finance are the ultimate motivators and should stimulate creativity.

Supply: You have always been very nurturing of up-and-coming artists and have helped kick off some very prominent careers. How do you keep your finger on the pulse?

Edward: We view everyone on a level field regardless of what stage of their career they're in. We have always been interested and aware of popular culture and travel extensively (pre COVID), which helps us remain engaged with what's happening on a global scale, and identify uniquely talented artists that are a good fit and get what the gallery is about.

Supply: The merchandise has become an interesting and evolving part of the Gallery’s identity. Tell us about how this came to be?

Edward: We had been involved in the design and production of music, books, fashion and "streetwear" prior to forming the gallery, and have continued to constantly produce merchandise and ephemera for the gallery. This has given people the chance to engage and connect with the gallery and our artists at an accessible level. 

Supply: Any big things China Heights are looking forward to in the future that you can share with us?

Edward: Without saying anything specific, we're looking forward to international travelling really opening up again soon, and the potential that holds.