Left and Right
Leonie Westbrook, Folded, 2017, 4.2cm x 4.2cm, enamel paint, monel metal, oxidized silver 4.2cm x 4.2cm. Photo: Studio Ingot
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Map reference number: 31
Studio Ingot
Shop 2, 234 Brunswick St, Fitzroy 25 August – 9 September
Viewable 24/7 Opening: Fri 1 September, 5–7pm
Artist/s: Brendan Adair–Smith, Jane Bowden, Georgie Brooks, Michelle Cangiano, Yu Fang Chi, Laila Marie Costa, Anna Davern, Bin Dixon Ward, Jeanette Dyke, Amanda Fox, Yuri Fujiyama , Emma Grace, Darren Harvey, Nicky Hepburn, Linda Hughes, Kath Inglis, Pennie Jagiello, Jin Ah Jo, Fiona Kwong, Katheryn Leopoldseder, Coconut Lu, Jennifer Martin, Victoria Mathews, Romy Mittelman, Belinda Newick, Sabine Pagan, Cass Partington, Peaches + Keen, Amy Renshaw, Sarah Ross, Rhys Turner, Katrina Tyler, Zoe Jay Veness, Kathryn Wardill, Leonie Westbrook & Vanessa Williams
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From left to right. Earrings ranging from the challenging to the discreet, found object to precious gem, conventional to the surprising, pairs, non-matched, odd & single earrings. Studio Ingot will present 100 pairs of earrings in a survey of styles, materials and solutions.
Curated by Studio Ingot the exhibition will focus on collections of earrings from over 35 artists.
Curated by Studio Ingot the exhibition will focus on collections of earrings from over 35 artists.
a. Kath Inglis, Rain stud earring, hand cut and dyed PVC, 2.7cm x 3.6cm
b. Rhys Turner, Hexagon, oxidised sterling silver, 9ct gold, 3.8cm x 2.8cm
c. Robin Wells, Imprint, oxidised sterling silver, 18ct gold, 6cm x 3cm
d. Bin Dixon-Ward, Grid, SLR nylon sterling silver, 6cm x 3cm
b. Rhys Turner, Hexagon, oxidised sterling silver, 9ct gold, 3.8cm x 2.8cm
c. Robin Wells, Imprint, oxidised sterling silver, 18ct gold, 6cm x 3cm
d. Bin Dixon-Ward, Grid, SLR nylon sterling silver, 6cm x 3cm
About the Artist
Brendan Adair-Smith completed his design training at the University of South Australia followed by a Design Associate position at JamFactory in Adelaide. Brendan moved to Melbourne in 2002 and currently works at Studio Ingot as a member of the workshop and gallery. Producing both one-off jewellery pieces and larger scale work, Brendan has participated in both solo and group exhibitions in Australia, including A fine Possession at the Powerhouse Museum (2014) and Twelve Degrees of Latitude, regional and University Galleries QLD. In 2007 Brendan was awarded first prize at Contemporary Wearable’s Biennial Jewellery Award & Exhibition and second prize in 2011. His work has been acquired by Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery in 2001, 2007, 2009 and 2011.
Jane Bowden was born in 1969 in Adelaide. In 1990 she completed a Bachelor of Design, majoring in Jewellery and Metal smithing, at the University of South Australia. In 1992 with fellow graduates, Jane established The Gold Fish Studio firstly located in Dulwich before moving to the JamFactory (1995 – 1997). Jane is the proprietor of Zu design - jewellery + objects, a gallery and studio space established in 1997. After the purchase of her first sterling silver ring, when she was 11 years old, she knew she wanted to be a jeweller. In the JamFactory in Adelaide she began to experiment with textile techniques using metal and this would later become an important part of her jewellery and object making. Jane is now the proprietor of Zu design, and her passion for making continues.
Georgie Brooks has an undergraduate degree in History (UNE), Honours in Interior Design (RMIT University) and an Advanced Diploma in Engineering – Jewellery (Melbourne Polytechnic). Georgie’s initial practice was as an Exhibition Designer of cultural environments in Melbourne and Internationally in London and New York. Georgie’s practice is now focused on designing and making contemporary jewellery from her studio at NorthCity 4. Georgie’s jewellery is focused on transforming unrefined manufactured surfaces as an impression on her work. In her research she is inspired by pieces of jewellery from antiquity and their historical context. Georgie’s experiments reveal how the detail of such work can be applied and translated in a contemporary context.
Michelle Cangiano has a Fine Art Degree in Painting and Drawing, and a degree with High Distinctions in Gold and Silversmithing at RMIT University, Melbourne (2001). Michelle was awarded the production prize at the Fresh Awards held at Craft Victoria (2001). In 2002 Michelle commenced as a sessional lecturer at RMIT, School of Art, Gold and Silversmithing, teaching jewellery skills and conceptual drawing until mid 2010. Michelle had her first solo show in 2007 at Pieces of Eight Gallery, Melbourne and has participated in numerous group shows in Australia.
Yu Fang CHI is a PhD candidate in the School of Art at RMIT University having previously completed her Bachelor and Master degree in Taiwan. Yu Fang regularly exhibits her work in Australia and internationally in Germany, Poland, Korea, Japan and Estonia. She has been awarded various grants and her work is held in both public and private collections. Yu Fang’s research project investigates the concept of femininity in jewellery and objects and its cultural connotations. Yu Fang introspects the processes of creation and the position of the female body. Her practice involves repetitive fibre-related techniques, which can be connected to traditional domestic art processes.
Laila Marie Costa has a Bachelor of Arts (Fine Art) from RMIT University and a Graduate Diploma from the VCA, Melbourne. Laila has recently been awarded an Italian Services Institute International Fellowship, to study micro-mosaic as part of her research art projects in Italy and Spain in 2017. Laila frequently participates in solo and group exhibitions in Australia and overseas.
Anna Davern gained her undergraduate degree from Sydney College of the Arts (1993) and completed her Masters degree at RMIT University in 2003. Davern has taught and lectured at universities and TAFEs in Australia and overseas. As well as three solo exhibitions at Craft Victoria and representation in numerous solo and group exhibitions, her work is held in both public and private collections. She is a recipient of grants from the Australia Council, Arts Victoria and NAVA, and undertook a residency at the Estonian Academy of Art in
2007. In 2011 she co-founded Northcity4, an ARI that provides professional and creative opportunities to the contemporary jewellery community.
Bin Dixon-Ward is a graduate of RMIT, Gold and Silversmithing. Bin has exhibited her work in Australia, Europe, Japan and North America and is the recipient of several awards including the Diana Morgan Post Graduate Award 2016, Itami Award and the Toowoomba Contemporary Wearables Student Prize. Bin’s work is held in public and private collections including the NGV, RMIT’s McMillan Collection, Melbourne, The Powerhouse Museum, Sydney and Musee des Artes Decoratifs, Paris. Bin continues her research and making in her Melbourne studio and teaches digital technologies at RMIT University.
Jeanette Dyke commenced art and jewellery studies in 1987 and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree. Receiving a Crafts Council of Great Britain training award she worked with renowned silversmith Richard Fox in London on Richards’s designs for BVLGARI jewellery. Jeanette completed a Master of Arts degree from the Royal College of Art, London and established her own workshop. In 1996 Jeanette moved to Melbourne from London. In 2007 she completed a 3-year artists residency at Clifton Pugh’s Dunmoochin studios and in 2011 she established her studio and Jewellery Making School at the artists colony of Montsalvat.
Amanda Fox has a Bachelor of Fine Arts with a major study in Gold and Silversmithing at Chisholm Institute of Technology (now Monash University) in 1988. Amanda makes jewellery from her studio in Melbourne where she makes collections for permanent gallery displays as well as special pieces for exhibitions and private commissions.
Yuri Fujiyama is a Japanese born Melbourne based jeweller. After completing an Advanced diploma of Engineering in Silversmithing and Jewellery at NMIT, Melbourne, in 2002. Yuri has set up her studio to continue making jewellery.
Emma Grace’s jewellery practice is based around the use of recycled and sustainable materials. Gleaning materials from many locations – they seem to ‘find’ Emma as much as she finds them - this vital personal ethos informs all of the creative choices made. Aside from the obvious environmental and ethical benefits of using recycled materials, Emma is also drawn to the splendid variety of colours and textures of her material finds.
Darren Harvey lives in a small shack, off grid, in the upper reaches of the Huon Valley in Tasmania. Darren feels an innate connection with metal, perhaps from in a ‘previous life’. During his travels through Italy in the early 1990’s he contemplated his place in the realm of contemporary jewellery. Darren’s jewellery appears simple and unadorned where a theme of repetition is dominant in the handcrafted surface texture. Using hand tools is meditative to the artist and minimises the environmental impact. His well-practiced virtuosity is evident where the end result plays with the effect of light. Darren’s latest exhibition work, a sculptural piece was shown as part of The Recreated -Cabinet of Curiosities,
Interweave Arts Tasmania.
Nicky Hepburn completed a Bachelor of Art Degree in Gold and Silversmithing at RMIT University and a Bachelor of Education in Arts and Crafts, at the University of Melbourne. She has lectured in Jewellery and Metalsmithing for over 15 years. Nicky has been involved in numerous group, solo and international exhibitions including, 2016-‘Worn Land” at
FORM W. Australia currently touring, 2012-‘ Forces of Nature’ at the Australian Embassy, Washington DC, 2009 - the ‘Walk’, a NETS touring exhibition. Nicky’s practice is currently focused on investigating the natural environment, and is based on her response to the details, light, colour and forms of the landscape. nickyhepburn.com.au
Linda Hughes is a Melbourne based artist who completed Gold and Silversmithing degrees at RMIT University. Linda exhibits her work in Australia and internationally. In 2005 Linda received the Toowoomba Contemporary Wearables Award, The Filippo Raphael Fresh Award as well as an Australia Council New Work Grant and several academic travel scholarships. Linda has work in public collections in Australia and internationally. Linda examines the occurrence of stripes and fragmented surfaces of historic artworks found in Italy. The stripe motif has a renegade quality that projects from a specific condition, or attribute, manifest in each source painting. Linda utilises laminate, acrylic and metal as a reinterpretation into contemporary jewellery.
Kath Inglis graduated from the South Australia School of Art in 2000 and developed her practice in several studios including Gray Street Workshop, JamFactory Metals Studio and established Soda & Rhyme in Adelaide. She now has an established studio in Adelaide. Kath’s jewellery is exhibited in Australia and overseas. Kath’s passion for Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) started in 2001. A prosaic material in its natural state it is loaded with potential. Simple hand worked processes such as applying colour, removing pieces from the surface with carving tools or adding heat-fused layers, elevates this material into the precious. A conceptual approach to making progresses her work by adding, removing, staying in motion in an instinctive and flexible process. Thinking of the past - looking toward the future; reflecting and responding.
Pennie Jagiello graduated from Queensland College of Art and made the move to Adelaide after being accepted into the Associate Program at the JamFactory. Currently Pennie is researching her subject at RMIT University. Pennie actively participates in group and solo exhibitions internationally and in Australia.
These works continue Pennies’ ongoing research into anthropogenic debris investigated thorough contemporary jewellery objects. Working with discarded and found objects means her practice is informed and defined by the materials found. Within this methodology is an awareness of the environmental impacts of anthropogenic debris and selectivity in the techniques and processes employed. Exploring colour, texture, scale and movement these wearable objects evoke a sense of inquiry as they hint at their former purpose but function in an unexpected way. These pieces have interchangeable components, which adds an exciting new approach to the work.
Jin Ah Jo migrated from South Korea to Australia in 2000 and is a contemporary jewellery artist living and working in Melbourne. Jin studied at Fachhochschule Düsseldorf, Germany in 2006 followed by completing a Masters of Fine Art at Monash University in 2008. In 2015 she participated in a group exhibition, LOOT at Museum of Arts and Design in NYC and had a solo show, Ohmaebulmang at e.g.etal, Melbourne in 2016. Jin Ah’s jewellery is all about creating wearable unpredictable forms. Her process traverses cross-cultural experiences of being born in Korea and studying, living and working in Germany and Australia.
Jana King moved from Queensland to Melbourne in 2011 to study an Advanced Diploma in Jewellery Manufacture at Melbourne Polytechnic. In her Graduating year she was awarded student of the year in addition to the Gallery Ready Award. In 2014 she went on to study small business Management at RMIT in conjunction with the New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS). During this time she was also accepted into a 12-month residency in the Project Space at Northcity4, where she worked on developing her design style and forging new skills in jewellery making.
Fiona Kwong attained a Bachelor of Art (Hons) from RMIT University, Melbourne. She had solo exhibitions from 1996-2004 held at Studio Ingot, e.g.etal and Craft Victoria, Melbourne, and has participated in many international group exhibitions in Europe, USA and Australia.
After graduating Fiona set up her own studio space and developed her hand made methodology working with gold and silver. She approaches her practice in varying ways with a common thread of problem solving both in technique and design.
The human form and psyche are primary sources of inspiration. Often the work plays with the tension or balance between opposites and notions of perception. Responding to a client’s brief conceptually or developing a new range, culminates in a unique piece reflecting her minimal aesthetic.
Katheryn Leopoldseder is an internationally recognised contemporary jeweller and artist. Since graduating with Honours from RMIT University, Katheryn has established a dynamic studio practice within Melbourne's Abbotsford Convent arts and cultural precinct. She is the recipient of several awards, government commissions, grants and acquisitions.
Produces limited-edition handmade jewellery pieces as well as large-scale objets d'art. In both forms, her work reflects on the sacredness of life, frequently using jewellery's unique relationship to the body, to question where we place our sense of value, security and identity within a consumer driven culture.
Coconut Lu attained a Masters of Arts (M.A.), Arts Management and a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Gold and Silversmithing from RMIT, Melbourne. After graduating she lectured in Contemporary Jewellery at Box Hill TAFE, Melbourne. Coconut has participated in numerous group shows in Melbourne and Australia wide during the last two decades. Her collections have been represented at Studio Ingot along with regional galleries. As a Melbourne based jewellery artist who longs to be based somewhere more exotic than her suburban back yard.
Jennifer Martin completed a Bachelor of Fine Art in Gold and Silversmithing at RMIT University in 1999. She completed her Masters of Fine Art in 2012. She was the recipient of a New Work Emerging Artist grant from the Australia Council for the Arts in 2007. She has had numerous solo exhibitions and participated in many group exhibitions within Australia and overseas.
Victoria Mathews studied Gold and Silversmithing at both NMIT and RMIT University. Victoria has participated in solo and group exhibitions including The Contemporary Wearables Exhibition and The Buda Contemporary Australian Silver and Metal Work Exhibition. Victoria’s work is held in private collections and galleries in Australia. Colour is been a constant theme in Victoria’s work as well as using alternative materials such as laminates. Victoria’s latest work involves printing images that she has drawn and painted onto metal. She uses an array of techniques to create texture and patterns in the images.
Romy Mittleman studied at NMIT before completing a fine art degree in gold and silversmithing at RMIT University, Melbourne. Romy now teaches gold and silversmithing at Melbourne Polytechnic. Romy has an affinity and virtuosity with the ancient practice of lost wax casting where this particular technique suits her process. The wax’s texture and malleability allows shaping to suit an individual design, which is cast in silver or gold. Incorporating precious stones in their raw form completes the jewellery composition.
Belinda Newick is originally from Western Australia. Newick spent six years in South Australia at JamFactory Contemporary Craft and Design, Gray Street Workshop and Zu design jewellery + objects, before settling in Melbourne in 2005. Newick has been the recipient of two international grants, with an Asialink Residency; Sri Lanka 2004 and another in Kerala, India 2001. She has exhibited in Asia, New Zealand and the USA and maintains an exhibition and gallery profile in Australia and overseas. Newick maintains a diverse practice as a studio based jeweller, hand making bespoke commission jewellery and acupuncture tools, as well as exhibiting and teaching the Advanced Diploma of Jewellery and Object Design at Melbourne Polytechnic at the Fairfield and Prahran campuses. Newick is a contemporary Jeweller whose work explores cultural hybridity and place. Through subtle applied surface textures, she combines handcrafted traditional techniques and computer engraved processes to capture the emotions, imprints and memories of life.
Sabine Pagan was born and educated in Switzerland. Whilst employed as an academic at Charles Sturt University, she attained a Bachelor of Arts (jewellery) and completed her PhD at UniSA School of Art, Architecture and Design in 2016. Relocating her creative practice to Australia she was an artist-in-residence at Object Studios in Sydney (1999-2001) and ANCA (Australian National Capital Artists) in Canberra (2001-2003). As a contemporary jeweller, educator and researcher Pagan’s interest in interdisciplinary practice has also led to the development of various collaborations.
Pagan’s research interests in architectural structures have long informed the aesthetic of her jewellery, in particular the ring form. Underpinning her work is a continuing examination of the way our knowledge, experiences and memories instill meaning to objects and environments and how, in turn, their materiality and histories affect us.
Cass Partington graduated from Melbourne University and NMIT and has her own contemporary jewellery and designer practice in Melbourne. Currently working from the Northcity4 Studios in Brunswick. Her jewellery is designed to be worn and interpreted, where simple forms are minimally decorated and often make reference to signs, code and the urban landscape. Cass has also experimented with larger scale artwork and costume design.
Peaches + Keen is the combination of Gold and Silversmith Lucy Hearn and Graphic Designer Lily Daley. Peaches + Keen is the combination of Gold and Silversmith Lucy Hearn and Graphic Designer Lily Daley. Drawing inspiration from colour, nature and the world around them, they place great importance on producing handmade and unique objects. Their jewellery is comprised of bright colours, geometric shapes and the reflective surface of gold foil. Their work continues to evolve as they explore the possibilities of their preferred material - plastic.
Amy Renshaw attained a Bachelor of Art (BA): Fine Art Gold and Silversmithing from RMIT University and a Diploma in Practical Dsiamond Grading from the Gemmological Association of Australia. Amy has a considered design philosophy with an understanding of jewellery materials and a virtuosity with the hand made process. Her designs follow a simple and refined philosophy often with something a little unexpected or with an asymmetric detail. The intimate scale of jewellery, the diverse materials and colour possibilties hold particular fascination along with the intrinsic meaning jewellery carries onto the wearer.
Sarah Ross completed her Bachelor of Fine Art (Hons) majoring in Gold and Silversmithing at RMIT University, Melbourne. Sarah lectured at RMIT University for more than a decade as well as presenting workshops, guest lectures and classes both nationally and internationally. Sarah is a founding Director at Studio Ingot and divides her time between the Gallery, limited edition jewellery pieces, custom orders and larger scale sculpture. She has been represented both nationally and internationally in numerous exhibitions. Sarah’s awards include a residency at Hill End, a Highly Commended at Itami, an Honourable Prize at the 3rd International jewellery design competition, Tokyo and the Jewellery Association of Australia’s Platinum Jewellery design Award. She was recently awarded a large-scale sculptural (8m) commission for a library.
Rhys Turner is a Melbourne based jeweller. Completing his BA (Jewellery) at CSU in 2006, developing a broad technical skillset Rhys went on to work in Canberra, Sydney and Melbourne and in 2014 he was awarded the Australian Jeweller of the Year. In 2016, Rhys co-founded Melbourne Studio FiveTwelve focusing on private commissions and gallery collections with a strong emphasis on the handmade. The clean lines of Rhys’s jewellery reflect geometric forms observed in Minimalist Architecture. Using traditional materials and techniques Rhys creates pieces that are pared-back to their necessary elements reflecting contemporary jewellery aesthetic.
Katrina Tyler is a Gold and Silversmith whose practice spans jewellery, small sculpture and public art. She completed studies in Gold and Silversmithing at RMIT, with a BA in 2003, and MFA in 2010. In 2008 Katrina undertook an access residency in the Metal Studio at JamFactory, and in 2015 received an ArtStart grant. Katrina’s work explores real and imagined sites of intersection and co-habitation between natural and urban habitats, representing the constant activity and cycles of growth, decay and evolution, omnipresent in the urban environment. She works predominantly in metal utilising traditional metalsmithing techniques and materials.
Zoë Jay Veness is a contemporary jeweller and object-maker. She is the recipient of awards, grants and residencies including an Australian Postgraduate Award in 2011 for PhD research at UNSW Art & Design. In July 2016 Zoë moved from the South Coast of NSW to commence as Lecturer of Object Design at the University of Tasmania in Hobart. Her work has been selected for exhibitions in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Korea, Singapore, London, Scotland, Germany, and the USA, and is held in private and public collections including the National Gallery of Australia and the Art Gallery of South Australia.
Kathryn Wardill is a Melbourne based contemporary jeweller who received her Master of Arts, Fine Art by research from RMIT University. As a jeweller and glass artist she has actively participated in group and solo exhibitions internationally for the last 21 years. Her dedication to researching jewellery objects, which combine metal and glass, has resulted in solo and group exhibitions, international artist in residency and conference presentations. Wardill’s distinctive combinations of metal, glass, vibrant colours and repetition, result in luxuriously tactile pieces of contemporary jewellery. Each glass piece is created individually and then combined with silver creating pieces that are a joy to wear.
Robin Wells has been creating jewellery for over 25 years. She studied Jewellery and Metalsmithing at Curtin University, Western Australia, graduating in 1991. Robin also completed her Certificate IV in Gemological studies in 2001. Growing up in rural Western Australia, surrounded by bushland has had a lasting impression on Robin, with her work being an ongoing narrative of concerns for our natural environment and the effect we have on it. She strives to create both one off exhibition work and unique production work that reflect these concerns.
Leonie Westbrook has a Bachelor of Applied Arts from University of South Australia, and completed an Associate program at JamFactory, where she was later invited to exhibit in Tea Wares, Metal on the Map, and her first solo exhibition Relics in 2010. In 2012 Leonie was awarded an Arts South Australia project grant for research, and moved into the renowned Gray Street Workshop and currently Leonie is undertaking a mentorship with Catherine Truman. Leonie has exhibited in both solo and group exhibitions Australia wide. Leonie’s piece White Rectangle was a finalist in 2016 National Contemporary Jewellery Award. Leonie's work is also in the Art Gallery of South Australia collection.
Vanessa Williams graduated from Queensland College of Art in 2009 and was accepted in the Associate Program at the JamFactory in Adelaide. Vanessa is a Metalsmith working predominantly in titanium in her home studio in Adelaide. The primary basis of Vanessa’s practice is driven by the medium of metal, predominantly titanium and its unique working properties. Vanessa consciously makes work with a minimum amount of waste leading to the use shapes and forms using all of the material.
Recently she has begun adapting parts used in industry that are prefabricated or manufactured to her specifications. The industrial nature of the material informs ideas and concepts related by simplicity, boldness and repetition of line. These shapes and form connect to structural elements found in architecture. Vanessa works in her home studio in Adelaide.
Brendan Adair-Smith completed his design training at the University of South Australia followed by a Design Associate position at JamFactory in Adelaide. Brendan moved to Melbourne in 2002 and currently works at Studio Ingot as a member of the workshop and gallery. Producing both one-off jewellery pieces and larger scale work, Brendan has participated in both solo and group exhibitions in Australia, including A fine Possession at the Powerhouse Museum (2014) and Twelve Degrees of Latitude, regional and University Galleries QLD. In 2007 Brendan was awarded first prize at Contemporary Wearable’s Biennial Jewellery Award & Exhibition and second prize in 2011. His work has been acquired by Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery in 2001, 2007, 2009 and 2011.
Jane Bowden was born in 1969 in Adelaide. In 1990 she completed a Bachelor of Design, majoring in Jewellery and Metal smithing, at the University of South Australia. In 1992 with fellow graduates, Jane established The Gold Fish Studio firstly located in Dulwich before moving to the JamFactory (1995 – 1997). Jane is the proprietor of Zu design - jewellery + objects, a gallery and studio space established in 1997. After the purchase of her first sterling silver ring, when she was 11 years old, she knew she wanted to be a jeweller. In the JamFactory in Adelaide she began to experiment with textile techniques using metal and this would later become an important part of her jewellery and object making. Jane is now the proprietor of Zu design, and her passion for making continues.
Georgie Brooks has an undergraduate degree in History (UNE), Honours in Interior Design (RMIT University) and an Advanced Diploma in Engineering – Jewellery (Melbourne Polytechnic). Georgie’s initial practice was as an Exhibition Designer of cultural environments in Melbourne and Internationally in London and New York. Georgie’s practice is now focused on designing and making contemporary jewellery from her studio at NorthCity 4. Georgie’s jewellery is focused on transforming unrefined manufactured surfaces as an impression on her work. In her research she is inspired by pieces of jewellery from antiquity and their historical context. Georgie’s experiments reveal how the detail of such work can be applied and translated in a contemporary context.
Michelle Cangiano has a Fine Art Degree in Painting and Drawing, and a degree with High Distinctions in Gold and Silversmithing at RMIT University, Melbourne (2001). Michelle was awarded the production prize at the Fresh Awards held at Craft Victoria (2001). In 2002 Michelle commenced as a sessional lecturer at RMIT, School of Art, Gold and Silversmithing, teaching jewellery skills and conceptual drawing until mid 2010. Michelle had her first solo show in 2007 at Pieces of Eight Gallery, Melbourne and has participated in numerous group shows in Australia.
Yu Fang CHI is a PhD candidate in the School of Art at RMIT University having previously completed her Bachelor and Master degree in Taiwan. Yu Fang regularly exhibits her work in Australia and internationally in Germany, Poland, Korea, Japan and Estonia. She has been awarded various grants and her work is held in both public and private collections. Yu Fang’s research project investigates the concept of femininity in jewellery and objects and its cultural connotations. Yu Fang introspects the processes of creation and the position of the female body. Her practice involves repetitive fibre-related techniques, which can be connected to traditional domestic art processes.
Laila Marie Costa has a Bachelor of Arts (Fine Art) from RMIT University and a Graduate Diploma from the VCA, Melbourne. Laila has recently been awarded an Italian Services Institute International Fellowship, to study micro-mosaic as part of her research art projects in Italy and Spain in 2017. Laila frequently participates in solo and group exhibitions in Australia and overseas.
Anna Davern gained her undergraduate degree from Sydney College of the Arts (1993) and completed her Masters degree at RMIT University in 2003. Davern has taught and lectured at universities and TAFEs in Australia and overseas. As well as three solo exhibitions at Craft Victoria and representation in numerous solo and group exhibitions, her work is held in both public and private collections. She is a recipient of grants from the Australia Council, Arts Victoria and NAVA, and undertook a residency at the Estonian Academy of Art in
2007. In 2011 she co-founded Northcity4, an ARI that provides professional and creative opportunities to the contemporary jewellery community.
Bin Dixon-Ward is a graduate of RMIT, Gold and Silversmithing. Bin has exhibited her work in Australia, Europe, Japan and North America and is the recipient of several awards including the Diana Morgan Post Graduate Award 2016, Itami Award and the Toowoomba Contemporary Wearables Student Prize. Bin’s work is held in public and private collections including the NGV, RMIT’s McMillan Collection, Melbourne, The Powerhouse Museum, Sydney and Musee des Artes Decoratifs, Paris. Bin continues her research and making in her Melbourne studio and teaches digital technologies at RMIT University.
Jeanette Dyke commenced art and jewellery studies in 1987 and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree. Receiving a Crafts Council of Great Britain training award she worked with renowned silversmith Richard Fox in London on Richards’s designs for BVLGARI jewellery. Jeanette completed a Master of Arts degree from the Royal College of Art, London and established her own workshop. In 1996 Jeanette moved to Melbourne from London. In 2007 she completed a 3-year artists residency at Clifton Pugh’s Dunmoochin studios and in 2011 she established her studio and Jewellery Making School at the artists colony of Montsalvat.
Amanda Fox has a Bachelor of Fine Arts with a major study in Gold and Silversmithing at Chisholm Institute of Technology (now Monash University) in 1988. Amanda makes jewellery from her studio in Melbourne where she makes collections for permanent gallery displays as well as special pieces for exhibitions and private commissions.
Yuri Fujiyama is a Japanese born Melbourne based jeweller. After completing an Advanced diploma of Engineering in Silversmithing and Jewellery at NMIT, Melbourne, in 2002. Yuri has set up her studio to continue making jewellery.
Emma Grace’s jewellery practice is based around the use of recycled and sustainable materials. Gleaning materials from many locations – they seem to ‘find’ Emma as much as she finds them - this vital personal ethos informs all of the creative choices made. Aside from the obvious environmental and ethical benefits of using recycled materials, Emma is also drawn to the splendid variety of colours and textures of her material finds.
Darren Harvey lives in a small shack, off grid, in the upper reaches of the Huon Valley in Tasmania. Darren feels an innate connection with metal, perhaps from in a ‘previous life’. During his travels through Italy in the early 1990’s he contemplated his place in the realm of contemporary jewellery. Darren’s jewellery appears simple and unadorned where a theme of repetition is dominant in the handcrafted surface texture. Using hand tools is meditative to the artist and minimises the environmental impact. His well-practiced virtuosity is evident where the end result plays with the effect of light. Darren’s latest exhibition work, a sculptural piece was shown as part of The Recreated -Cabinet of Curiosities,
Interweave Arts Tasmania.
Nicky Hepburn completed a Bachelor of Art Degree in Gold and Silversmithing at RMIT University and a Bachelor of Education in Arts and Crafts, at the University of Melbourne. She has lectured in Jewellery and Metalsmithing for over 15 years. Nicky has been involved in numerous group, solo and international exhibitions including, 2016-‘Worn Land” at
FORM W. Australia currently touring, 2012-‘ Forces of Nature’ at the Australian Embassy, Washington DC, 2009 - the ‘Walk’, a NETS touring exhibition. Nicky’s practice is currently focused on investigating the natural environment, and is based on her response to the details, light, colour and forms of the landscape. nickyhepburn.com.au
Linda Hughes is a Melbourne based artist who completed Gold and Silversmithing degrees at RMIT University. Linda exhibits her work in Australia and internationally. In 2005 Linda received the Toowoomba Contemporary Wearables Award, The Filippo Raphael Fresh Award as well as an Australia Council New Work Grant and several academic travel scholarships. Linda has work in public collections in Australia and internationally. Linda examines the occurrence of stripes and fragmented surfaces of historic artworks found in Italy. The stripe motif has a renegade quality that projects from a specific condition, or attribute, manifest in each source painting. Linda utilises laminate, acrylic and metal as a reinterpretation into contemporary jewellery.
Kath Inglis graduated from the South Australia School of Art in 2000 and developed her practice in several studios including Gray Street Workshop, JamFactory Metals Studio and established Soda & Rhyme in Adelaide. She now has an established studio in Adelaide. Kath’s jewellery is exhibited in Australia and overseas. Kath’s passion for Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) started in 2001. A prosaic material in its natural state it is loaded with potential. Simple hand worked processes such as applying colour, removing pieces from the surface with carving tools or adding heat-fused layers, elevates this material into the precious. A conceptual approach to making progresses her work by adding, removing, staying in motion in an instinctive and flexible process. Thinking of the past - looking toward the future; reflecting and responding.
Pennie Jagiello graduated from Queensland College of Art and made the move to Adelaide after being accepted into the Associate Program at the JamFactory. Currently Pennie is researching her subject at RMIT University. Pennie actively participates in group and solo exhibitions internationally and in Australia.
These works continue Pennies’ ongoing research into anthropogenic debris investigated thorough contemporary jewellery objects. Working with discarded and found objects means her practice is informed and defined by the materials found. Within this methodology is an awareness of the environmental impacts of anthropogenic debris and selectivity in the techniques and processes employed. Exploring colour, texture, scale and movement these wearable objects evoke a sense of inquiry as they hint at their former purpose but function in an unexpected way. These pieces have interchangeable components, which adds an exciting new approach to the work.
Jin Ah Jo migrated from South Korea to Australia in 2000 and is a contemporary jewellery artist living and working in Melbourne. Jin studied at Fachhochschule Düsseldorf, Germany in 2006 followed by completing a Masters of Fine Art at Monash University in 2008. In 2015 she participated in a group exhibition, LOOT at Museum of Arts and Design in NYC and had a solo show, Ohmaebulmang at e.g.etal, Melbourne in 2016. Jin Ah’s jewellery is all about creating wearable unpredictable forms. Her process traverses cross-cultural experiences of being born in Korea and studying, living and working in Germany and Australia.
Jana King moved from Queensland to Melbourne in 2011 to study an Advanced Diploma in Jewellery Manufacture at Melbourne Polytechnic. In her Graduating year she was awarded student of the year in addition to the Gallery Ready Award. In 2014 she went on to study small business Management at RMIT in conjunction with the New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS). During this time she was also accepted into a 12-month residency in the Project Space at Northcity4, where she worked on developing her design style and forging new skills in jewellery making.
Fiona Kwong attained a Bachelor of Art (Hons) from RMIT University, Melbourne. She had solo exhibitions from 1996-2004 held at Studio Ingot, e.g.etal and Craft Victoria, Melbourne, and has participated in many international group exhibitions in Europe, USA and Australia.
After graduating Fiona set up her own studio space and developed her hand made methodology working with gold and silver. She approaches her practice in varying ways with a common thread of problem solving both in technique and design.
The human form and psyche are primary sources of inspiration. Often the work plays with the tension or balance between opposites and notions of perception. Responding to a client’s brief conceptually or developing a new range, culminates in a unique piece reflecting her minimal aesthetic.
Katheryn Leopoldseder is an internationally recognised contemporary jeweller and artist. Since graduating with Honours from RMIT University, Katheryn has established a dynamic studio practice within Melbourne's Abbotsford Convent arts and cultural precinct. She is the recipient of several awards, government commissions, grants and acquisitions.
Produces limited-edition handmade jewellery pieces as well as large-scale objets d'art. In both forms, her work reflects on the sacredness of life, frequently using jewellery's unique relationship to the body, to question where we place our sense of value, security and identity within a consumer driven culture.
Coconut Lu attained a Masters of Arts (M.A.), Arts Management and a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Gold and Silversmithing from RMIT, Melbourne. After graduating she lectured in Contemporary Jewellery at Box Hill TAFE, Melbourne. Coconut has participated in numerous group shows in Melbourne and Australia wide during the last two decades. Her collections have been represented at Studio Ingot along with regional galleries. As a Melbourne based jewellery artist who longs to be based somewhere more exotic than her suburban back yard.
Jennifer Martin completed a Bachelor of Fine Art in Gold and Silversmithing at RMIT University in 1999. She completed her Masters of Fine Art in 2012. She was the recipient of a New Work Emerging Artist grant from the Australia Council for the Arts in 2007. She has had numerous solo exhibitions and participated in many group exhibitions within Australia and overseas.
Victoria Mathews studied Gold and Silversmithing at both NMIT and RMIT University. Victoria has participated in solo and group exhibitions including The Contemporary Wearables Exhibition and The Buda Contemporary Australian Silver and Metal Work Exhibition. Victoria’s work is held in private collections and galleries in Australia. Colour is been a constant theme in Victoria’s work as well as using alternative materials such as laminates. Victoria’s latest work involves printing images that she has drawn and painted onto metal. She uses an array of techniques to create texture and patterns in the images.
Romy Mittleman studied at NMIT before completing a fine art degree in gold and silversmithing at RMIT University, Melbourne. Romy now teaches gold and silversmithing at Melbourne Polytechnic. Romy has an affinity and virtuosity with the ancient practice of lost wax casting where this particular technique suits her process. The wax’s texture and malleability allows shaping to suit an individual design, which is cast in silver or gold. Incorporating precious stones in their raw form completes the jewellery composition.
Belinda Newick is originally from Western Australia. Newick spent six years in South Australia at JamFactory Contemporary Craft and Design, Gray Street Workshop and Zu design jewellery + objects, before settling in Melbourne in 2005. Newick has been the recipient of two international grants, with an Asialink Residency; Sri Lanka 2004 and another in Kerala, India 2001. She has exhibited in Asia, New Zealand and the USA and maintains an exhibition and gallery profile in Australia and overseas. Newick maintains a diverse practice as a studio based jeweller, hand making bespoke commission jewellery and acupuncture tools, as well as exhibiting and teaching the Advanced Diploma of Jewellery and Object Design at Melbourne Polytechnic at the Fairfield and Prahran campuses. Newick is a contemporary Jeweller whose work explores cultural hybridity and place. Through subtle applied surface textures, she combines handcrafted traditional techniques and computer engraved processes to capture the emotions, imprints and memories of life.
Sabine Pagan was born and educated in Switzerland. Whilst employed as an academic at Charles Sturt University, she attained a Bachelor of Arts (jewellery) and completed her PhD at UniSA School of Art, Architecture and Design in 2016. Relocating her creative practice to Australia she was an artist-in-residence at Object Studios in Sydney (1999-2001) and ANCA (Australian National Capital Artists) in Canberra (2001-2003). As a contemporary jeweller, educator and researcher Pagan’s interest in interdisciplinary practice has also led to the development of various collaborations.
Pagan’s research interests in architectural structures have long informed the aesthetic of her jewellery, in particular the ring form. Underpinning her work is a continuing examination of the way our knowledge, experiences and memories instill meaning to objects and environments and how, in turn, their materiality and histories affect us.
Cass Partington graduated from Melbourne University and NMIT and has her own contemporary jewellery and designer practice in Melbourne. Currently working from the Northcity4 Studios in Brunswick. Her jewellery is designed to be worn and interpreted, where simple forms are minimally decorated and often make reference to signs, code and the urban landscape. Cass has also experimented with larger scale artwork and costume design.
Peaches + Keen is the combination of Gold and Silversmith Lucy Hearn and Graphic Designer Lily Daley. Peaches + Keen is the combination of Gold and Silversmith Lucy Hearn and Graphic Designer Lily Daley. Drawing inspiration from colour, nature and the world around them, they place great importance on producing handmade and unique objects. Their jewellery is comprised of bright colours, geometric shapes and the reflective surface of gold foil. Their work continues to evolve as they explore the possibilities of their preferred material - plastic.
Amy Renshaw attained a Bachelor of Art (BA): Fine Art Gold and Silversmithing from RMIT University and a Diploma in Practical Dsiamond Grading from the Gemmological Association of Australia. Amy has a considered design philosophy with an understanding of jewellery materials and a virtuosity with the hand made process. Her designs follow a simple and refined philosophy often with something a little unexpected or with an asymmetric detail. The intimate scale of jewellery, the diverse materials and colour possibilties hold particular fascination along with the intrinsic meaning jewellery carries onto the wearer.
Sarah Ross completed her Bachelor of Fine Art (Hons) majoring in Gold and Silversmithing at RMIT University, Melbourne. Sarah lectured at RMIT University for more than a decade as well as presenting workshops, guest lectures and classes both nationally and internationally. Sarah is a founding Director at Studio Ingot and divides her time between the Gallery, limited edition jewellery pieces, custom orders and larger scale sculpture. She has been represented both nationally and internationally in numerous exhibitions. Sarah’s awards include a residency at Hill End, a Highly Commended at Itami, an Honourable Prize at the 3rd International jewellery design competition, Tokyo and the Jewellery Association of Australia’s Platinum Jewellery design Award. She was recently awarded a large-scale sculptural (8m) commission for a library.
Rhys Turner is a Melbourne based jeweller. Completing his BA (Jewellery) at CSU in 2006, developing a broad technical skillset Rhys went on to work in Canberra, Sydney and Melbourne and in 2014 he was awarded the Australian Jeweller of the Year. In 2016, Rhys co-founded Melbourne Studio FiveTwelve focusing on private commissions and gallery collections with a strong emphasis on the handmade. The clean lines of Rhys’s jewellery reflect geometric forms observed in Minimalist Architecture. Using traditional materials and techniques Rhys creates pieces that are pared-back to their necessary elements reflecting contemporary jewellery aesthetic.
Katrina Tyler is a Gold and Silversmith whose practice spans jewellery, small sculpture and public art. She completed studies in Gold and Silversmithing at RMIT, with a BA in 2003, and MFA in 2010. In 2008 Katrina undertook an access residency in the Metal Studio at JamFactory, and in 2015 received an ArtStart grant. Katrina’s work explores real and imagined sites of intersection and co-habitation between natural and urban habitats, representing the constant activity and cycles of growth, decay and evolution, omnipresent in the urban environment. She works predominantly in metal utilising traditional metalsmithing techniques and materials.
Zoë Jay Veness is a contemporary jeweller and object-maker. She is the recipient of awards, grants and residencies including an Australian Postgraduate Award in 2011 for PhD research at UNSW Art & Design. In July 2016 Zoë moved from the South Coast of NSW to commence as Lecturer of Object Design at the University of Tasmania in Hobart. Her work has been selected for exhibitions in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Korea, Singapore, London, Scotland, Germany, and the USA, and is held in private and public collections including the National Gallery of Australia and the Art Gallery of South Australia.
Kathryn Wardill is a Melbourne based contemporary jeweller who received her Master of Arts, Fine Art by research from RMIT University. As a jeweller and glass artist she has actively participated in group and solo exhibitions internationally for the last 21 years. Her dedication to researching jewellery objects, which combine metal and glass, has resulted in solo and group exhibitions, international artist in residency and conference presentations. Wardill’s distinctive combinations of metal, glass, vibrant colours and repetition, result in luxuriously tactile pieces of contemporary jewellery. Each glass piece is created individually and then combined with silver creating pieces that are a joy to wear.
Robin Wells has been creating jewellery for over 25 years. She studied Jewellery and Metalsmithing at Curtin University, Western Australia, graduating in 1991. Robin also completed her Certificate IV in Gemological studies in 2001. Growing up in rural Western Australia, surrounded by bushland has had a lasting impression on Robin, with her work being an ongoing narrative of concerns for our natural environment and the effect we have on it. She strives to create both one off exhibition work and unique production work that reflect these concerns.
Leonie Westbrook has a Bachelor of Applied Arts from University of South Australia, and completed an Associate program at JamFactory, where she was later invited to exhibit in Tea Wares, Metal on the Map, and her first solo exhibition Relics in 2010. In 2012 Leonie was awarded an Arts South Australia project grant for research, and moved into the renowned Gray Street Workshop and currently Leonie is undertaking a mentorship with Catherine Truman. Leonie has exhibited in both solo and group exhibitions Australia wide. Leonie’s piece White Rectangle was a finalist in 2016 National Contemporary Jewellery Award. Leonie's work is also in the Art Gallery of South Australia collection.
Vanessa Williams graduated from Queensland College of Art in 2009 and was accepted in the Associate Program at the JamFactory in Adelaide. Vanessa is a Metalsmith working predominantly in titanium in her home studio in Adelaide. The primary basis of Vanessa’s practice is driven by the medium of metal, predominantly titanium and its unique working properties. Vanessa consciously makes work with a minimum amount of waste leading to the use shapes and forms using all of the material.
Recently she has begun adapting parts used in industry that are prefabricated or manufactured to her specifications. The industrial nature of the material informs ideas and concepts related by simplicity, boldness and repetition of line. These shapes and form connect to structural elements found in architecture. Vanessa works in her home studio in Adelaide.
