Fifteen makers and designers from Australia’s creative scene are leading the way in reshaping material practices through Conscious Craft.
Established by Craft Victoria, this transformative initiative represents a major step towards sustainable creativity and collective action within the artistic community.
Launching in May, Conscious Craft will debut with an exciting program line-up, featuring the works of 15 Australian makers and designers across four engaging exhibitions.
Each participant demonstrates a profound commitment to conscientious production methods and ethical material usage, driving sustainability to the forefront of artistic expression. Highlights include:
- Alexander Brown transforms the humble everyday aluminium can into an abstract, wall-mounted artwork, referencing industrial machinery and steel conveyor belts
- Annie Paxton gives a second life to scrap aluminium, creating a long-legged sculptural cabinet that plays with the surface and textural properties of the material
- Joanne Odisho presents a lamp inspired by 19th century paper observatory domes, using a biodegradable composite comprised of shredded paper and wood shavings
Conscious Craft serves as a dynamic platform encouraging artists to explore considered and responsible production methods and material use; a hub to facilitate meaningful dialogues, sparking ideas; and a space to drive collective action through ongoing creative programs.
Nicole Durling, Executive Director of Craft Victoria, emphasises the profound impact of this movement: “Beyond the gallery walls, we believe that creativity can influence the world around us,” said Nicole.
“Craft is inspired by the rise in artists who are challenging their production methods, and interrogating every element that makes up the final piece. In Conscious Craft, the parts are indeed as great as the sum of the whole.”
Driven by a clear mission to amplify the voices of Australian makers and designers committed to sustainable innovation, Conscious Craft is more than just a platform – it’s an invitation for all of us to be considered, responsible, and responsive.
With a vision to provide support, resources, and guidance to artists embarking on innovative journeys, Craft is dedicated to shaping a brighter, more sustainable future.
Conscious Craft will launch on Thursday 16 May 2024 at Craft Victoria. For more information and full program, visit: www.craft.org.au for details.
Image: Artworks by Kate Jones (ceramic tile), Jane Sawyer, Claire Ellis, Welfe Bowyer (wall sconce), Marlo Lyda, Annie Paxton, Alexander Brown (wall leaning piece), Claire Ellis, Jane Sawyer, Andrew Carvolth, Amelia Black, Bel Williams (wall light) and Kate Jones – photo by Sarah Forgie | courtesy of Craft Victoria