Overview
Highlighting stunning, smart and savvy creations is what Melbourne Design Week is all about; however, that doesn't just apply to the pieces on display, exhibitions gracing walls and other crafty bits and pieces in the program. Expect the same ideas to be put into action at the city-wide showcase's venues too, including their pop-up Collingwood hub.
At 296 Smith Street, what once was a historic watchmaker's shop has been transformed into a mirrored space to house six of the week's standout events. It's reflective of MDW's spirit, and it's reflective in the literal sense. The walls and floors are covered in panelling that everyone can see themselves in, and offer quite the contrast with the otherwise rough and crumbling interiors.
That's where attendees will find 26 Original Fakes, which steps through unique versions of widely-copied furniture designs, as well as Undervalued, which will help you reevaluate the beauty of usefulness of objects that you might see every day. Or, opt for Apparatus 4's, randomly rising and falling inflatable surface, Ovoid's egg-focused photographs or short film Untitled (with Gelato). Plus for those who like to gather, collect and keep things that they come across on their travels, The Found Object is a must-see.
Put together by the Victorian Government and the National Gallery of Victoria, MDW features more than 100 events between March 16 to 26. While every venue mightn't boast such dazzling design, everything in the lineup will.
Find Watchmaker at 296 Smith St, Collingwood. For more information about Melbourne Design Week, head to their website — or run through our ten picks of the program.
Images: Installation view of 26 Original Fakes presented by Friends and Associates for the National Gallery of Victoria's Melbourne Design Week 2017 at Watchmaker, Collingwood. Photo: Wayne Taylor. // Installation view of The Found Object presented by Hub Furniture for the National Gallery of Victoria's Melbourne Design Week 2017 at Watchmaker, Collingwood. Photo: Wayne Taylor // Christie Petsinis and Tim Wilson of Folk Architects for the National Gallery of Victoria's Melbourne Design Week 2017 at Watchmaker, Collingwood. Photo: Wayne Taylor.