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Layers of Blak

  • Art, Jewellery
  1. A woman stands in front of a man in front of a black background, both wearing black clothing and long gold jewellery front their ears.
    Photography: Fred KrohMongarrk perk:perk wirrng 2 (echidna quill earrings) by Tammy Gilson (Wadawurrung)
  2. Four hands hold up a silver and gold chain necklace against a black background.
    Photography: Fred KrohUnbroken Links by Yasmin Silveira (Palawa)
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Time Out says

A showcase of sparkling jewels championing First Nations creative excellence

Transforming a brutal history into contemporary beauty is the central aim of eleven talented Victorian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and designers showcased in the Layers of Blak exhibition. Opening October 1 at the Koorie Heritage Trust in Fed Square, the exhibit speaks to notions of healing, resilience and empowerment through the artistic form of jewellery making.

This latest exhibition is a result of the Blak Design Program, which cultivates First Nations design innovation and sustainable practices. Boasting an impressive line-up of First Nations artists, the exhibit showcases works from Thelma Austin, Mandi Barton, Nikki BrowneLorraine Brigdale, Deanne and Tammy Gilson, Elijah Money, Yasmin Silveira, Sammy Trist, Dominic White and Tracy Wise.

In preparation for the exhibit, each artist undertook intensive workshops to develop their jewellery making skills under the guise of acclaimed jewellers Blanche Tilden and Laura Deakin.

Award-winning Yorta Yorta artist Lorraine Brigdale said the experience of being mentored by such experienced jewellers was liberating: “The processes I learned have added greatly to my handwork skills and will be a big part in creating a new direction in any art that I can build on in the future.”

“My work for the exhibition is centred around remembering our ancestors and the strength and determination it took for them to get us to this point where we can hold our heads high at last, and we will never forget them.” 

A fascinating look into the convergence between traditional First Nations art practice and jewellery making, the exhibition is for art lovers, Melbourne locals and tourists alike. Layers of Blak is free and open to visitors until February 19, 2023 at the Koorie Heritage Trust, Yarra Building in Fed Square.

Written by
Ruby Staley

Details

Address:
Price:
Free
Opening hours:
10am-5pm
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