Griffith Regional Art Gallery has announced the upcoming launch of “Alchemy: A National Contemporary Jewellery Initiative”, a series of exhibitions running from November to December, dedicated to Australian contemporary jewellery.
The exhibitions will focus on various aspects of Australian jewellery design, presenting three showcases that reflect both traditional and evolving styles.
National Contemporary Jewellery Award
Central to Alchemy is the National Contemporary Jewellery Award, Griffith’s biennial competition, now in its 32nd year. This award exhibition highlights emerging and established jewellers from across Australia, with 25 artists competing for a $5,000 prize and a place in Griffith’s National Contemporary Jewellery Collection. The award recognises achievements in contemporary jewellery design and provides participating jewellers an opportunity for national exposure.
Ray Wholohan, the Art Gallery Coordinator, commented on the significance of this year’s event: “Alchemy brings together an extraordinary range of contemporary jewellery from across Australia. This initiative highlights Griffith’s role in supporting the jewellery industry and the preservation of jewellery as an art form.”
Treasure Trove: 50 Years of Jewellery from the National Gallery of Australia
The Treasure Trove exhibition, part of the National Gallery of Australia’s (NGA) Sharing the National Collection initiative, features over 50 years of Australian jewellery pieces. Incorporating selections from the 1970s to 2010s, Treasure Trove explores the evolution of jewellery trends and materials over the decades. This collection includes brooches, rings, necklaces, and bracelets, providing jewellers and designers with insight into the trajectory of Australian design. Pieces from the Griffith Regional Art Gallery’s own collection will also be on display, offering a comprehensive view of Australia’s jewellery legacy.
Treasure Trove will be available for viewing until 2026, allowing continued access to the NGA’s and Griffith’s jewellery collections.
GEOMORPH: Material and Environment
The GEOMORPH exhibition by Sabine Pagan concludes Alchemy’s lineup, featuring work that draws inspiration from Pagan’s Swiss-Australian heritage and recent relocation to Tasmania. Pagan’s work reflects the relationship between natural and industrial materials, highlighting connections between jewellery and the environment. This exhibition presents jewellers with an example of how personal experiences and diverse cultural backgrounds can influence design.
Public Events and Exhibition Details
Alchemy will commence with a ticketed launch event on Friday, 8 November at 6 pm, with an additional floor talk scheduled for Saturday, 9 November at 9 am, where attendees can hear directly from artists and industry experts.
The exhibitions will be open to the public from 9 November to 22 December, with extended access to Treasure Trove until 2026.
