The Tree features new work by twenty-five established and emerging Australian glass artists.
Each was approached with the open brief of creating works in response to the theme ‘the tree’. They were asked to consider our relationship to the tree, our understanding of it in all its forms, functions and capacity.
The exhibition presents a myriad of artistic interpretations, as diverse and intriguing as the multiplicity of techniques utilised in the making of the works. The range of approaches to the subject includes humour, metaphor, studies of nature, sustainability and materiality.
Some works are inspired by tree patterning – echoing and mimicking colour, form and texture. Others draw on mythology and tree stories, relating wisdom gleaned from the kindness and benevolence of the tree, or embodying tales of personal experience, connection and adventure. There is contemplation of the tree in our landscape, the role it plays in forming our impression of our surroundings, and our sense of community and belonging. Also well-represented are considerations on our reliance on the utility of the tree for food, fuel and shelter. Finally, there is deliberation on the awesome beauty and majestic form of the tree, both figuratively and abstractly through the translation of microscopic detail and biological processes.
The Tree invites the contributing artists and visitors to reflect on the impact of the tree in the world we inhabit. It is a celebration of two natural materials, glass and wood, and a showcase of the skill, vitality and creativity of contemporary Australian artists working with glass.
Curated by Clare Belfrage
Exhibition Design & Coordination by Ruth White
Artists: Matt Curtis, Kirstie Rea, Mel Willis, Emilie Patteson, Tom Moore, Yusuke Takemura, Giselle Courtney, Mel George, Nadege Desgenetez, Nudibranch, Maureen Williams, Ben Sewell, Mikyoung Jung, Bridget Thomas, Harriet Schwarzrock, Sui Jackson, Belinda Toll, Holly Grace, Jacqui Gropp, Clare Belfrage, Deirdre Feeney, Miki Kubo, Penny Fuller, Suzanne Peck, Tim Edwards, Scott Chaseling, Alana Corr, Jer-emy Lepisto, Erin Conron, Mel Douglas, Jenni Martiniello, , Lisa Cahill, Luna Ryan, Masahiro Asaka, Christine Atkins, Alex Fraser Smith, Hilary Crawford, Annette Blair
Image: Yusuke Takemura, Routes, 2014, blown glass and branch of tree. Photo courtesy of the artist.
