GRAG Celebrates 30th Anniversary Of National Contemporary Jewellery Award

When Griffith Regional Art Gallery opens its doors on Friday, October 28 it will be in celebration of 30 years of its flagship exhibition.

The National Contemporary Jewellery Award (NCJA) is a biannual acquisitive prize showcasing the unique and innovative creations of some of the country’s finest contemporary jewellery practitioners.

The National Contemporary Jewellery Collection is the Gallery’s most significant and prestigious collection.

Founded in 1992, the Award was sponsored by the Sydney Myer Foundation as an acquisitive biannual award to showcase and develop the collection.

Today, the competition is sponsored by Griffith City Council and attracts a growing field of entrants from across the country representing cutting-edge contemporary jewellery practice.

Judging this year’s entrants are Dr Rohan Nicol (NCJA Consultant/UTAS), Dr Kristin Haydon (RMIT) and Bic Tieu (UNSW). GRAG Coordinator, Ray Wholohan said the gallery was proud to be the custodian of the National Contemporary Jewellery Collection - the only collection of its kind in regional NSW.

“We’re privileged to have three judges of this calibre for the National Contemporary Jewellery Award,” Mr Wholohan said.

“All three have a vast experience and a unique understanding of Australia’s contemporary jewellery practice.”

Judges have selected 19 finalists from a very strong field of 45 entrants to feature in this year’s Award.

Those finalists are Zoe Brand, Ximena Briceno, Susan Buchanan, Melissa Cameron, Elizabeth Curry, Jess Dare, Lisa Furno, Katherine Grocott, Katherine Hubble, Anke Kindle, Nicola Knackstredt, Catherine Large, Josephine Mascaro, Nicole Polentas, Michelle Stewart, Gabbee Stolp, Jacki Stone, Zoe Veness and Melinda Young.

Manager of Griffith Regional Gallery, Margaret Andreazza said the National Contemporary Jewellery Award is the signature event and always brought in amazing pieces of innovative object design that pushed the boundaries of contemporary wearable art.

“The community is invited to enjoy a great night at the Gallery, not only celebrating the newest addition to our collection as we announce the 2022 winner, but also celebrating 30 years of contemporary Australian jewellery,” Ms Andreazza said.

Patrons can enjoy Dee Vine Estate wines and canapes at the NCJA opening at 6 pm on Friday, October 28.

Tickets cost $25 or $10 for Gallery members and can be purchased at the Gallery in advance or online at www.griffithregionalartgallery.com.au.

The National Contemporary Jewellery Award 2022 will be on exhibition to the general public from Saturday, October 29 until Sunday, December 18.

Contact the Griffith Regional Art Gallery at 6962 8338 for more information.

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