Kate Durham – 'Freedom' Brooch, 2024

My jewellery works a little against an agreed definition of value and of modernity, that sees minimalism as an indication of modernity or even as a requirement. Austerity and minimalism I may often like, but never apply in my own work. My work seeks out decorative and design elements that tend to challenge that notion of modernity; and the materials I use challenge the expectation of value and worth. They are worthless, which allows me to use more of them and to experiment widely, without the restraint of cost. My work, made of non-valuable materials, explores jewellery with an eye to femininity, desirability and history, with an aesthetic and cheekiness which is I think my own. My materials are lightweight, I make laminates, I use plastics, shell, fabrics and all manner of refuse as extravagantly as I can.

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Kate Durham is a Melbourne artist, practising in jewellery, painting, decorative art, interiors, sculpture and drawing. Kate is represented in major collections, including the National Gallery of Victoria, National Gallery of Australia, Canberra, Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney Powerhouse Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences, the Victoria & Albert Museum, London, Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, Launceston and Shepparton Regional Art Gallery, Victoria. In the 1980's Kate made popular her extravagant, bejewelled jewellery, head-pieces, drawings, paintings, sculptures, busts, mirrors, frames and furniture. Kate’s choice of materials from scraps, remnants, and rubbish informed her playful and unique anti-fashion, fashion style.

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All that glitters...

Vitrine Gallery

July 23 – August 24

Read about the exhibition

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Material: mixed media

Dimensions: approx. 13 x 8.5cm