Gallery Becomes Centre Of Australian Contemporary Jewellery

Along with The National Contemporary Jewellery Award, a biennial showcase in its 32nd year, Griffith Regional Art Gallery will feature another two exhibitions, making it the centre of Australian Contemporary Jewellery for the next two months.

The National Contemporary Jewellery Award, highlights the very best in Australian contemporary jewellery design, with 25 artists competing for a $5,000 prize and the opportunity to be included in Griffith’s prestigious National Contemporary Jewellery.

This flagship exhibition is the first of the three to grace the theatre.

The second exhibition features Treasure Trove - 50 years of Jewellery from The National Gallery of Australia, part of the NGA’s Sharing the National Collection initiative.

This collection, paired with Griffith’s own jewellery holdings, offers an in-depth look at Australian jewellery trends and design evolution over the past five decades, featuring pieces like brooches, rings, necklaces, and bracelets from the 1970s through the 2010s.

Rounding out this celebration of contemporary jewellery is GEOMORPH, an exhibition by artist Sabine Pagan that explores the relationship between materials and our surroundings.

The collection reflects Pagan’s recent move to Tasmania and her Swiss-Australian background, blending natural and industrial elements to evoke a profound sense of place and material.

Gallery Coordinator Ray Wholohan said that more entries had been received this year than ever before, demonstrating the strength and value of contemporary jewellery.

“Alchemy brings together an extraordinary range of contemporary jewellery from across Australia,” Mr Wholohan said.

“This initiative highlights Griffith’s unique role in preserving and celebrating jewellery as an art form.

“We’re thrilled to partner with the National Gallery of Australia and the University of Tasmania’s School of Art to present this exceptional experience.”

Alchemy will open with a ticketed event on Friday, November 8 at 6 pm.

Visitors can also join a free floor talk on Saturday, November 9 from 9 am, featuring insights from industry leaders and artists.

The exhibition will be open to the public from November 9 to December 22, with Treasure Trove remaining on display for the next two years.

IMAGE: Nicole Polenta

IMAGE: Katherine Hubble

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