Layers of Blak

Overview

If you've got a thing for contemporary jewellery, or just a general love of good design, prepare to be impressed by the works you're set to spy at the Koorie Heritage Trust's (KHT) latest free exhibition. Layers of Blak will be on show in the Fed Square space from Saturday, October 1–Sunday, February 19, 2023, weaving powerful storytelling together with contemporary jewellery design.

Eleven Victorian First Nations artists and designers will showcase compelling pieces layered with meaning in the second annual instalment of this exhibition for Blak Design — the KHT's initiative to foster and support First Nations arts.

'STOP KILLING COUNTRY' 2022, Nikki Browne (Bidjara). Photo by Fred Kroh.

Local artists involved in the group exhibition include Thelma Austin (Gunditjmara), Dominic White (Palawa), Lorraine Brigdale (Yorta Yorta/Barapa Barapa/Wemba Wemba), Elijah Money (Wiradjuri), Nikki Browne (Bidjara), Yasmin Silveira (Palawa), Mandi Barton (Yorta Yorta/Barapa Barapa/Wemba Wemba), Deanne Gilson (Wadawurrung), Tammy Gilson (Wadawurrung), Sammy Trist (Taungurung) and Tracy Wise (Barkindji Ngiyampaa Maligundidj).

Working under the Blak Design program, participants worked with and were mentored by renowned jewellers Blanche Tilden and Laura Deakin, honing their skills while also scoring professional development guidance from various creative industry leaders.

'Jahgany' 2022, Tracy Wise (Barkindji Ngiyampaa Maligundidj). Photo by Fred Kroh.

Top Image: 'Namesake' 2022, Elijah Money (Wiradjuri) — photo by Fred Kroh.