Metalab & COTA

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-14T17:26:00.000-08:00

The team here at Metalab wish you all a great Christmas and look forward to seeing you in the New Year.
If you're in the neighbourhood make sure to drop in for some Jewellery & Gelato.
Thanks again to Zac and Isaac from the Photo Refinery for taking these amazing images for The Local Smiths campaign. Check out more of their work here.

The Gelatosmith

2011-12-12T00:07:00.000-08:00

Metalab is excited to announce its Summer Project - The Local Smiths.
A celebration of the handmade and artisanal in a series of interventions by local smiths at the gallery.
The first installation sees the opening of Sydney's first Jewellery and Gelato Bar.

Enter Nikky Tsang - Gelatosmith!

In 2010 The Sydney Morning Herald awarded Nikky The Young Achiever in Food Award for his work at the famed Lindfield Gelateria, Gelatiamo.
Now based in Surry Hills, Nikky is one of countless local Smiths we admire for their passion and commitment to refinement. His signature flavours such as Coconut & Red Bean, Fig Pannacotta and Nocciolina (a salty peanut base with caramel and chocolate swirl) have all made an appearance... and are already attracting a cult following.

The Pop-up Jewellery and Gelato bar will be open late Thursdays-Saturdays during the festive season to aid in those last minute Christmas present selection.....
Stay tuned for updated flavours and Smiths.
Another such Local Smith/s are the guys at The Photo Refinery. Check out their fine work below

Image - Photo Refinery

Metalab Colab on Yellowtrace

2011-12-05T22:22:00.000-08:00

My... how time flies! Our apologies for the lack of posts of late...but we'll be back with more frequent entries from now on. On the subject of flying time, we've just learned that our friend Dana Hughes, mastermind behind the famed Yellowtrace blog is celebrating it's second birthday.
To celebrate this fine occasion we've donated some jewellery to be included in a very impressive prize pool open to all Yellowtrace devotees taking part in a reader survey.
It will only take 10mins and you never know your luck!

The two pieces up for grabs are part of our Fix'd range. Inspired by the fixing mechanisms of old and new roadsters, Slot, Torx, Hex, Phil and Bob form the basis for this collection.

Crafted in Sterling Silver, each piece is hand-made and finished in Sydney, Australia by the skillfull team of craftspeople at Metalab. The Suite includes Rings, Tags and Earrings.

Good luck!

Not Pretty?

2011-08-24T06:17:00.000-07:00

Not Pretty? is a contemporary jewellery and object exhibition featuring 9 male makers from Scotland and Australia. The title doesn't refer to the artists themselves - who are all, I'm sure very pretty indeed - nor does it refer to the pieces on display. Rather, Not Pretty? is more of a question posed to the viewers about gender recognisability in jewellery and object design.

Exhibitors include:

Nicholas Bastin, Jonathon Boyd, Cesar Cueva, David Goodwin, Christian Hall, Andrew Lamb, Grant McCaig, Michael Pell and Mark Vaarwerk.

The exhibition continues 26th August to 10th September.

Mirror - The Metalab Collective 2011

2011-08-03T06:27:00.000-07:00

For those of you in Sydney, you may already know that Sydney Design is well under way and features over 100 events until mid August. The theme for this years event is : is old new again?
Metalab is proud to once again be included in the festival program with our annual Metalab Collective exhibition - Mirror.
The exhibition is the exploration of old items that hold intrinsic or perceived value, and their re-invention in the modern age. It looks at the way we view, collect and refashion these objects, giving them a new life and a new sense of value in the process.

The metalab collective includes Catherine Buman, Cesar Cueva, Cesar A. Cueva, Cinnamon Lee, Tommy Milanovic, Rita Rogers, Katrina Stamatopolous and Damian White.

F!NK & Co - Seconds Sale

2011-07-31T16:39:00.000-07:00

For one day only Metalab will host F!NK & Co with their annual Seconds Sale.
This is great opportunity to purchase a piece from the ever-growing and collectable F!NK range at heavily reduced prices. Sunday 7th, August 10am - 3pm

The Collaboration

2011-06-29T21:55:00.001-07:00

Invisible Forces

Photography by Peter Whyte

Contemporary Jewellery by Linda van Niekerk

Opening Thursday 7th July from 6pm

8th - 30th July

This exhibition is the result of almost a year in creative conversation between two artists, jewellery designer, Linda van Niekerk and photographer Peter Whyte, seeking inspiration from each other’s work.

The conceptual framework of Invisible Forces was formed around an exploration of the hidden powers of the natural world.

Those forces of movement which shape the surfaces of the sea, the waves formed by a stone thrown into a pond,

the bending of the grass by wisps of wind. Captured in powerful abstract images by Peter and wearable sculptural forms by Linda.

Invisible Forces - Peter Whyte

2011-06-21T19:52:00.000-07:00

You've read a little about Linda, so before I introduce the collaboration, here's a little background on Linda's collaborator Peter Whyte.

Peter is fresh from photographing the entire MONA art collection over the past 4 years and along side a very busy photography practice, he has recently been selected in the Graphis 100 Best in Photography 2011 with the stunning b/w photo of a singular sunflower. Congratulations Peter!

Peter says of the subjects for the photographs in Invisible Forces:

The beauty of the pent up power in a tranquil body of water and the tempestuous potential veiled in a gentle breeze, are governed by one overriding invisible force - gravity. It controls our physical surrounds, our weather and ultimately the earth.

Whyte brings years of visual analysis and observation from nature back into the studio to recreate it in a controlled space. Constructing a 3 x 4 metre pool in his studio, with an arsenal of bizarre wave generators, meticulously restrained lighting, and large format digital capture, Peter unveils the invisible, in this series of mysterious and arresting images.

While the wind and reflection images were captured on location, the same level of fastidious rigour employed in the studio was applied to harness and pare the existing physical and lighting circumstances to capture the forces at play.

It should be noted, that these are all ‘as shot’ digital photographs. There has been no digital manipulation or ‘Photoshopping’ beyond usual RAW digital image processing.

Invisible Forces - Linda van Niekerk

2011-06-19T23:07:00.000-07:00

Next month Metalab will feature the work of Tasmanian based artists Linda van Niekerk and Peter Whyte in a collaborative exhibition titled Invisible Forces.
Before the show opens, we thought you may want to learn a little more about each artist and about the exhibition.
Invisible Forces will be the fourth time Linda will exhibit at Metalab and the first as part of a collaborative duo.
Linda describes herself as a conceiver of wearable sculpture rather than a jeweller and continues to redefine her pieces in a deceptively simple and minimalist manner. Linda explains:

Three aspects have inspired the jewellery developed for this exhibition. Firstly, the concept of the power of the hidden forces at work either almost without warning or over eons of time to create, for example, the perfect pebbles found on the Tasmanian coastline.
The second inspiration came from the sheer delight of the sublime forms in the images created by Peter Whyte. And the third and most important inspiration came by allowing myself to be seduced by the feeling, the movement, the incredible power of Peter’s beautiful photographs and attempting to interpret these emotions into wearable form.

Linda has been a finalist in several prestigous local awards including the National Contemporary Jewellery Award, the Contemporary Wearables Award and the Hobart Prize. In 2010 Linda won the overall prize for the Tasmanian Design Awards. This award winning neckpiece is a simple and elegant statement utilising round section chenier, strung on silk cord.

Silversmithing – Navigating New Opportunities Oliver Smith

2011-06-09T18:59:00.000-07:00

Last month we had the great privelage to once again showcase the work of Sydney silversmith Oliver Smith. As we prepare to stock the showcases at COTA with Oliver's cutlery from this exhibition, we thought you might like to hear a bit more about the work from the man himself. So we invited Oli to share with you the adventures of 'map man'...(see below)

Oliver Smith aka Map Man

Boatyard, Roskilde Viking Ship Museum

Danish National Gallery

So... enjoy reading and when you have a chance, pop into COTA where you'll be able to look at and feel this remarkable hand forged flatware.


In the studio - Photo Nick DeLorenzo

Cesar suggested I share some of my thoughts surrounding the objects I recently exhibited at metalab in O XI:

The three cutlery settings displayed represent my continued fascination with the utensil. I undertook a Winston Churchill Memorial Trust Fellowship between December 2010 and February 2011, travelling to the UK, Scandinavia and South Korea to research the design and manufacture of cutlery and to look at new ways that craft can inform production. You can read my report here.

Classic, Reef & Totem Photo - John Lee

I made Reef, Totem and Classic as ‘show & tell’ to take on my Churchill Fellowship.

Through both my portfolio and the actual work I carried with me I was committed to demonstrating the breadth of my vision for tableware. I was also keen to share my view that craft must continue to influence design.

The Reef pattern, referencing the marine environment, is an expression of new material opportunities. The vibrant spectrum of anodised titanium combines with the tactile experience of lightness.

Totem, hot forged from stainless steel bar, is an attempt to reinvigorate the primal nature of our eating tools. Like many utiliarian objects they are extensions of our arms/hands/fingers as well as our teeth and nails.

Classic, as its name suggests, is an examination of the archetype of knife, fork and spoon. It is motivated by a desire to create a contemporary interpretation of this triad that is suitable for manufacture in recently developed tarnish resistant sterling silver micro alloys.

All three settings are working prototypes that I can steer towards bespoke production in my own workshop or adapt to industrial manufacturing to create greater volumes. The expanded network developed through my study tour will enable me to move in both of these directions in the future.

Stamping press @ David Mellor Workshop

Press tools @ David Mellor Workshop

My exploration of the table centrepiece through Snekkja, Mac Enge and Cyclops grew out of a project supported by an Australia Council New Work Grant. I applied with the proposal to create and exhibit metalsmithing objects exploring the form and colour potential of titanium. I would like to express my gratitude in receiving this funding and acknowledge the many benefits it has had on my practice.

By playing with the unique form language offered by titanium when worked in a silversmithing context, in combination with the colours of anodising, I could see a new area of metalsmithing opening up. From a technical viewpoint the project required me to research and commission specialised electronic equipment for anodising larger titanium objects, which in turn gave me the opportunity to create more subtle, earthy colour effects. Interestingly the texture or surface quality that grew out of the hammering processes needed to shape the metal, allowed new colours and finishes to come to life through anodising, while simultaneously demonstrating the story of how the form came into being. This relates to the idea that handcrafting an object champions the moment of creation, grounding meaning to maker and place.

Snekkja, Cyclops & Mac Enge

The centrepieces were greatly influenced by an unexpected source of inspiration encountered during my travels. With much of my time directed towards design companies, industrial manufacturing and the contemporary retail context, the richness and metaphysical purity of many ancient objects seen in museums became strikingly apparent. In particular the Celtic metalwork in the British Museum, the National Museum of Denmark’s Viking age collection as well as earlier stone and bronze artefacts, and the Roskilde Viking Ship Museum for me strongly reinforced the primordial need for the object to fulfil needs beyond the utilitarian and aesthetic.

Gundestrup Cauldron, National Museum of Denmark

Thus the centrepiece gave opportunity to put forward and play with the symbolic role of the object in a social milieu. In this sense Snekkja is a vessel referencing larger vessels and suggesting narrative, Mac Enge merges a shield form with a bowl and explores the close association with the body that both genres of object possess, and mythically charged Cyclops is a record of metallic transformation and energy transferral. There are other connections that informed these pieces, including detailed research into the structures of exoskeletons and crustaceans that led me to the Sydney Fish Market and involved a seafood feast, examination of the engineering principles used in Gothic armour, alternate readings of history and archaeology, and imagined variations to religious objects and sacrificial offerings.

Skuldelev Byrding Ship, Roskilde Viking Ship Museum

My makers mark ‘O’ and the stamp ‘XI’ representing 2011, seemed a fitting title for this group of objects. These marks locate my work in the present and also indicate the continuum of time and of making. Each piece is a testament to the creative potential of craft, the richness of the material vocabulary of metal as well as the challenges and rewards of hammer forming techniques. In a sense this collection represents a return to basic principles yet simultaneously seeks to apply them in a manner that encourages evolution. My intention is to affirm the creative necessity of the handmade.


Makers Mark and Year Stamp

Finally, I’d like to say how inspiring it has been to work with the metalab team and to thank them for making me part of their exciting 2011 exhibition calendar!

Covert Jewels - Harbouring secrets

2011-05-28T04:17:00.000-07:00

Resident Metalab artist Cinnamon Lee has yet again assembled an extraordinary array of rings in her latest exhibition Covert Jewels.

For this exhibition Cinnamon continues her investigation into the elusive world of digital design processes in conjunction with traditional gold and silversmithing techniques, creating works that both reveal and conceal.

Rings in particular have for centuries remained carriers of profound meanings, and regardless of their outward appearances are often imbued with private or even secret values. Covert Jewels therefore aims to highlight the furtive nature of such precious objects, and pay tribute to the undeniable allure of concealment

The combined application of digital manufacturing and precious metal casting allows for a new approach to designing objects, where the boundaries of metal fabrication are expanded beyond their conventional limitations. Lee’s work deliberately exploits the inherent capabilities of these techniques to create a collection of finger rings whose individual personalities have been deliberately introverted - thus providing inconspicuous secrets for their wearers rather than their viewers.

While demonstrating Cinnamon's evolving expertise using digital design processes within the contemporary craft sphere, Covert Jewels also presents a unique amalgamation of her jewellery and lighting design practices. The illuminated installation of these rings is integral to the exhibition concept and contributes to conveying a heightened sense of curiosity by provoking within the audience a desire for closer inspection. The display system incorporates pre-programmed LEDs that individually light up the internal surfaces of each ring, drawing attention to their otherwise covert nature.

Bio.

Cinnamon Lee is a Sydney artist who has specialised in employing new technologies to augment her metalsmithing practice since 2000. Over the past decade she has continued this research culminating in the acquisition of a Master of Philosophy degree in Visual Art from The Australian National University in 2010. While the research undertaken during this study focussed specifically on the decorative potential of electronic lighting technologies, her jewellery practice has concurrently continued to scrutinise the new possibilities offered by digital technologies within a craft context. Lee continues to exhibit both nationally and internationally and has had a number of works acquired by The National Gallery of Australia.

Covert Jewels - Cinnamon Lee

2011-05-25T22:44:00.000-07:00

Make sure to keep the evening of 2nd June free to join Cinnamon in celebrating the opening of her new exhibition Covert Jewels.
The exhibition comes to Sydney after it's launch at Craft ACT earlier in the year. For those of you interested in reading the catalogue essay written by Canberra native Yolande Norris you can find it here.
And for impatient types that simply must catch a preview you can check out some amazing shots of the installation on the Habitus Living website.

Indesign Luminary

2011-05-19T18:17:00.000-07:00

In June Australian design publishers INDESIGN will be hosting a special event at Zenith Interiors in the ACT to celebrate the career of Silversmith Johannes Kuhnen.

INDESIGN Magazine Issue 45, 2011

Johannes is a pioneering metalsmith who has had a considerable influence on contemporary craft and design in Australia over the past 25 years.
You can get an insight into Johannes's thoughts on innovation, experimentation, exhibting and his role as an educator in Issue 45 of INDESIGN.
Congratulations to Johannes on having his remarkable career highlighted in such a fine manner and to INDESIGN for continuing to celebrate the Indesign Luminary series.

Oliver Smith - O XI

2011-05-15T23:16:00.000-07:00

This month at Metalab we showcase the work of Sydney based silversmith Oliver Smith.
In O XI, Oliver's first solo exhibition, he explores the potential for sculptural form, colour and texture in a range of metals. Titanium, monel, stainless steel and silver all come to life under the hammer and are fashioned into unique centrepieces and cutlery.

Oliver Smith - Cyclops Centrepiece 2011


Oliver Smith - Mac Enge 2011

Oliver Smith - Reef Cutlery 2011, Titanium


Oliver Smith - Totem Cutlery 2011, Stainless Steel

Oliver Smith - Classic Cutlery, .900 Silver, Monel (Knife)

O XI - Oliver Smith runs until the 26th of May.

Off to Canberra

2011-05-11T17:51:00.000-07:00

The lead up to the COTA opening was an intensely busy period and whilst we were on a high we figured we'd take a few days off to visit friends and catch up on the happenings over in Canberra.
It was a bit of a whirlwind visit but we did make it over to Craft ACT, where Christine Cholewa exhibited a glass installation and jewellery examining food production technology in Machine in the Garden.
Our own Cinnamon Lee's installation featured a series of rings investigating notions of intimacy and secrecy in Covert Jewels. Each ring is illuminated from the inside with some LED trickery.
Look out for this body of work when it travels to Metalab in June.

Cinnamon Lee's Grid , 925 Silver

Also at Craft ACT Embracing innovation. This showcase featured Stephen Barrass, Marco Chan, Penelope Forlano, Chris Hardy, Dr Carlos Montana-Hoyos, Gilbert Riedelbauch, Andrew Welch, Mitchell Whitelaw, and Tim Brook, Ruth Hingston and Alistair Riddell who are exploring new areas in trans-disciplinary research, technology and design.


Gilbert Riedelbauch's *Mikado Desk #1*

Over lakeside at GAD, we had a chance to see Strange Planet, a collection of lighting works by Robert Foster capturing his fascination with how light is emitted through form and material. Foster explores the boundaries between lighting installations and sculpture while finding new ways to engage and challenge himself and the audience.

Robert Foster

If you find yourself in the ACT, be sure to check in to either of these centres to see what's on offer.
These exhibitions have now closed. But there is till a chance to see Cinnamon Lee's Covert Jewels
here at Metalab in June 2011.
Thank you to Amy Kerr from Craft ACT & Jas Hugonnet from GAD for the images.

Photography for GAD - DMC Photography
Photography for Craft ACT - Creative Image Photography

COTA Grand re-opening

2011-05-10T23:57:00.000-07:00

After a short period of being closed for renovation, the curtains have been drawn and we've unveiled the new look COTA store at the Strand Arcade.
Metalab Creative was responsible for the concept design and the project was beautifully orchestrated by project manager and architect Lien Bui.

The new design has seen a few signature details that relate directly to Metalab gallery and a nod to the COTA pop-up store. The new showcases have been designed with dynamism and surprise in mind.
Shoppers can spin the cases around to reveal even more tempting objects hidden on the other side.

The new curved wall is lined with an amazing custom wallpaper design by the very talented ladies over at Sixhands. The interactive lighting centrepiece has proven to be quite the crowd pleaser and is brought to you courtesy of Metalab resident artist and constant collaborator Cinnamon Lee.

We celebrated the occasion of our 4th birthday and the opening in grand style. The Side Project came together for the first collaboration with a little teaser of tastier things to come.
The Side Project is exactly just that, a side project and collaboration between Metalab and Oscillate Wildy. On a recent gastronomic tour of Spain Cesar and Chef Karl Firla laid down the grounds for collaborative fusion of food and design. With only days to go before the event we dreamed up an idea to serve Karls' amazing h'orderves and Cesar and Cinnamon brought them to life.

Thanks to all in attendance, the Metalab and Oscillate Wildly crew for all their hard work and a big thanks to all our supporters and well wishers. Stay tuned for future events.

Contemporary Wearables '11

2011-04-19T20:23:00.000-07:00

Contemporary Wearables competition is here and is calling for entrants. This great competition by the Tooowoomba Regional Art Gallery runs biennially. Open to all Australian and New Zealand artists and jewellers, this year the prize has a huge $5000 first prize and $3000 second prize, and a student prize of $1500. In addition to all this a pool of up to $7000 available for acquisition of suitable works for the Toowoomba City Collection.

Applications must be post marked no later that Friday 6th May and pre-selected artists will be notified of their success by Friday 24 June 2011. These pre-selected works will then be sent to the gallery for an Award exhibition that runs here from 10 September to 16 October 2011 (inclusive). Judging of the prizes will take place on Sunday 11 September 2011 at the official opening and winners will be notified the following day. Following the close of the exhibition here, the tour will embark on a 12 month tour around Australian regional galleries, the details for which are now being finalised although there are still some availablities to host the show.

For more information on entry and conditions of entry visit the Tooowoomba Regional Art Gallery website at http://twmba.net/~tgallery/

Good luck.

See you soon,

Metalab

Fer Et Verre - Encore

2011-04-15T21:31:00.000-07:00

This month is an exciting month here at Metalab and COTA.
Not only do we have the brand new COTA opening, but we have the Blanche Tilden - Fer Et Verre encore at COTA.

Metalab was proud to show the Fer Et Verre an exhibition of new glass and metal jewellery by Blanche Tilden during the month of February and now COTA has the chance to bring you this fantastic show throughout April and May.

Metalab and COTA will be working closely to give you a look at each exhibition, keep an eye out for what is to come.

See you soon,

Metalab

The Brand New COTA @ The Strand Arcade

2011-04-15T00:58:00.000-07:00

After a short time under renovation, Metalab is proud to announce that COTA has reopened.
The brand new COTA features a completely new fitout and marks the beginning of our new store in The Strand Arcade.

Come and celebrate our 4th birthday with the launch of our brand new store and see our distinctive range of contemporary jewellery and objects brought to you courtesy of the artist.
The official opening will be on the 16th of April from 6 - 8pm @ Shop 124, Level 2, The Strand Arcade.

A special thanks goes to Lien Bui for the design of the store and also to Karl Firla of Oscillate Wildly for the special canapes he'll be serving up on this special night.

Hope to see you there,

Metalab.

Bad Beasts Do Not Harm Me @ Metalab

2011-04-15T00:25:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, we've been showing Bad Beasts Do Not Harm Me by Natalia Milosz-Piekarska and Karla Way here at Metalab. We're happy to say we're this great show will be on until the end of the month.

Come by and see the show, we guarantee you won't be disappointed.

See you then,

Metalab

Lucky Charm Fundraiser - Mi Casa es tu Casa by Cesar Cueva

2011-03-30T19:14:00.000-07:00


Mi Casa es tu Casa by Cesar Cueva

Cesar Cueva has been invited to take part in the Lucky Charm Fundraiser, an initiative coordinated by Melbourne based Contemporary Jeweller Natalia Milosz-Piekarska, in an effort to raise funds for Red Cross Australia.

What is Lucky Charm? Well here are a few words about this great fundraiser auction-

Lucky Charm "is a very exciting Contemporary Jewellery auction to raise much needed funds for the Red Cross Disaster Relief and Rescue Services in light of the recent natural disasters taking place around the world, in particular Australia, New Zealand and Japan. All pieces have been very generously donated by the local and international contemporary jewellery community who have banded together to become an unstoppable FORCE OF GOOD NATURE!"

With a lineup of highly respected established and upcoming makers, including names such as Lucky Folk, Julia deVille, Nicholas Bastin, Melinda Young, and Anna Davern, this is a rare opportunity to bid on a unique piece of contemporary jewellery while contributing to a great cause. All pieces have a reserve price of ONLY $30 AUD.

Here is a look at some of the other pieces included in this great auction -

Idle Bloom by Mel Young

Station Studs by Phoebe Porter

Tantalum Ring by Sean O'Connell

Lily Claw Brooch by Julia DeVille

Bidding is open now and will end on the 21st of April 2011 at 11pm EST.

For more information and to see some of the other wonderful pieces of jewellery up for auction visit http://www.luckycharmfundraiser.blogspot.com/.

Hope you can be a part of this great initiative.

See you soon,

Metalab.

Metalab & Blanche Tilden on How We Create

2011-03-21T21:17:00.000-07:00

Metalab and Blanche Tilden, in particular her Fer Et Verre collection, are mentioned in a fantastic article by Simone LeAmon. The 'How We Create' article speaks about Contemporary Jewellery and the artists that create the fabulous work that we know and love.

Blanche Tilden

Make sure you have a read as Simone gives an insight into the history of Contemporary Jewellery in this country and the way that it has left an impression on the international scene.

The full article can be found here.

Hope to see you soon,

Metalab

Cesar Cueva @ Pieces of Eight

2011-03-10T18:19:00.000-08:00

Pieces of Eight Gallery

Recently our very own Cesar Cueva was invited to develop a collection of work for Pieces of Eight, a Contemporary Jewellery and Artist Made Object space in Melbourne. Started by jeweller Melanie Katsalidis, this beautifully designed gallery and retail space is home to over 50 local and international artists, definitely a must visit for anybody looking for that something special.

Featured as the Piece of the Day on the Pieces of Eight blog this feature is a great example of Cesar's work and practice as a jeweller. Thanks to Melanie and team for the great article. Here are a few shots of his work as shown on their site.

'Coefficient Towers’ Rings - Image courtesy of Pieces of Eight

'BlackButt' Ring: sterling silver, monel (left)
'Pitch Black' Ring: sterling silver, monel (right)

'Coefficient Towers’ series Rings: 1 - 3 sterling silver, monel

'Rock Face' Earrings: sterling silver, corian

For the full article visit the Pieces of Eight blog.

Hope to see you soon,

Metalab

Bad Beasts Do Not Harm Me @ Metalab

2011-03-06T17:11:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday we opened Bad Beasts Do Not Harm Me by Natalia Milosz-Piekarska and Karla Way here at Metalab. Opening Night was huge success, a big congratulations to Natalia and Karla for putting together such a beautiful body of work and thank you to everyone that came along.

We've got a few shots here of the installed show that has transformed Metalab with clusters of suspended pieces taking over the space - Natalia and Karla did a fantastic job with this installation.

The show is on until the March 31, if you weren't able to make it on Thursday or even if you feel like seeing the show again, so feel free to come by the gallery and see the Bad Beasts Do Not Harm Me collection.

For more info please call us here at the gallery on 02 8354 1398 or email us on info@metalab.com.au.

Look forward to seeing you,

Metalab

COTA Re-Opening Soon

2011-03-04T16:45:00.000-08:00

COTA is currently closed for refurbishment, but will re-open within a few weeks. As a lot of you know, and some may not, we've committed to stay on in the Strand Arcade and are currently refitting the COTA space with a brand new fitout.

Keep an eye on this space for more COTA news to come.

Call us here at the gallery on 02 8354 1398 if you have any questions or email us at info@metalab.com.au.

Hope to see you all soon,

Metalab

Introduction - Natalia Milosz-Piekarska & Karla Way

2011-03-01T22:43:00.000-08:00

Natalia Milosz-Piekarska and Karla Way join us at Metalab this month to open 'Bad Beasts Do Not Harm Me' a collection of vessels and jewellery which explores the transcendent and transformative capabilities of materials.

While we've given a background of the show and what it is about, we thought we'd give you a bit of an insight into the artists; the creators and makers of this wonderful body of work.


Garlic Medallion by Natalia Milosz-Piekarska

Natalia Milosz Piekarska is a Melbourne based contemporary jeweller and artist. Having completed a BA (Honours) in Gold and Silversmithing at RMIT, after initially studying Design/ Visual Communication, Natalia has worked in a wide range of projects; winning prizes and being shown both nationally and internationally, moswt recenlty being selected as a finalist of the 2010 British Council 'Realise Your Dream' awards.

Corn Signet Ring by Natalia Milosz-Piekarska

Chilli Garland by Natalia Milosz-Piekarska

Her work is focused primarily within the realm of amuletic and talismanic adornment. By researching various aspects of superstition, folklore and ritual, her work explores the human inclination towards charmes object and the power of belief.


Suspended Container 1 by Karla Way

Karla Way is a Melbourne based contemporary jeweller who makes jewellery, art object and vessels. Her studies began initially at NMIT ion Collingwood before going to complete a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Gold and Silversmithing from RMIT. Her work has been shortlisted for multiple awards over the years and she has participated in group exhibitions nationally and internationally, including Eg Etal in Melbourne and Gallerie Marzee in the Netherlands.

Karla is interested in the transformative ability of materials, and draws inspiration from extensive pre-history of jewellery, hollowware and personal object using traditional and modern material both naturally occuring and man made.

Container 1 by Karla Way


Hunter and hunted by Karla Way

Be sure to join us here at Metalab for Bad Beasts Do Not Harm Me, Thursday 3 March at 10b Fitzroy Place, Surry Hills.

Hope to see you soon,

Metalab

Natalia Milosz-Piekarska and Karla Way - Bad Beasts Do Not Harm Me

2011-02-28T16:43:00.000-08:00

Metalab is proud to bring you Bad Beasts Do Not Harm Me - A Contemporary Jewellery and Object Exhibition by Natalia Milosz-Piekarska and Karla Way.

Join Natalia and Karla for the exhibition opening on Thursday 3 March from 6 - 8pm at metalab 10b Fitzroy Place Surry Hills. The exhibition runs until 31 March 2011.

Natalia Milosz-Piekarska and Karla Way come together to present a group of work exploring the transcendent and transformative capabilities of materials. Focusing on instruments of divination and the deflection of ill fortune, Natalia and Karla create works that are obscure yet familiar. The pieces presented provoke and capture the imagination, inviting you to enquire, engage and treasure.

Looking forward to see you at the opening.

See you then,

Metalab

Metalab & Jed Wines

2011-02-27T17:37:00.000-08:00

Metalab is happy to announce that we now have Jed Wines on board as our new wine supplier.

Image courtesy of Jed Wines

Jed Wines is an Argentinian based and produced wine which run and owned by three Australian winemakers. Having traveled around the world looking for the best place to base their vineyard, they have chosen the Uco Valley in Mendoza, Argentina. Found at the foothills of the Andes, Mendoza has a rich winemaking history that spans over 450 years, to where the trio travel each year to produce wines that express the unique characteristics of the region.

Esteban enjoying Jed in his own way.

Come by and visit us for one of our many shows this year to taste the fantastic wine Jed has on offer.

See you soon,

Metalab.

Mr. Mister @ Metalab - Opening tonight!

2011-02-24T16:35:00.000-08:00

Metalab is proud to present Mr. Mister, a men's accessory and lifestyle goods store. Specialising in male-focused quality products, Mr. Mister is a destination point for men, and women, to visit when looking for something that will set them apart from the masses.

Found within Metalab's walls, this retail space project sees Mr. Mister sourcing quality made goods by craftspeople and artisans the world over and providing an outlet where they are able to find the accessories they need for their day-to-day, with.

Come join us tonight for the opening of Mr. Mister retail space here at Metalab - 10b Fitzroy Place, Surry Hills from 6 - 8pm.

Look forward to seeing you there.

Metalab Crew

Blanche Tilden @ Metalab

2011-01-20T20:48:00.000-08:00

Tonight is the opening night for Blanche Tilden's show Fer Et Verre - New Glass and Metal Jewellery here at Metalab. The show is installed and everything is set for a great opening so we though we'd share a sneak peek of what to expect of this beautiful body of work.

Opening is from 6pm - 8pm tonight here at Metalab - 10b Fitzroy Place, Surry Hills.

Don't hesitate to give us a call at the gallery on 8354 1398 if you have any questions about tonight's opening.

See you then,

Metalab.

Blanche Tilden - Fer Et Verre

2011-01-12T23:27:00.000-08:00

Metalab is delighted to present Fer Et Verre - New Glass and Metal Jewellery by Blanche Tilden.

Join Blanche for the exhibition opening on Friday 21 January from 6 - 8pm at metalab 10b Fitzroy Place Surry Hills. The exhibition runs until 26 February 2011.

In this body of work Blanche Tilden turns to the history of the glass buildings of Europe's industrial age.

Drawing parallels between glass as a building material, and glass as a material for contemporary jewellery, Fer et Verre references the Crystal Palace and the Palais des Machines, built for the Great Exhibitions of the nineteenth century.

In necklaces made of sparkling, clear glass, and blackened silver, Tilden reverses the traditional idea of a building as an envelope for bodies. Instead, these necklaces propose a relationship in which the body carries her structures with it. Glass and silver create small prisms of light, not quite material and resonant with our own dreams of other possible futures.

Look forward to seeing you at the opening,

Metalab

Merry Christmas Everyone !!!

2010-12-23T19:03:00.000-08:00

Metalab would like to thank you so much for all your support this year.
We look forward to making 2011 an even bigger and better year.
Have a great festive season.

Cheers,

Nina + Cesar and the rest of the team at Metalab & COTA

Metalab will be closed over the Christmas period and will open in January with our first exhibition
FER ET VERRE - New Metal and Glass Jewellery by Blanche Tilden
21 JANUARY - 26 FEBRUARY 201

COTA will be opened throughout the Holidays and closing just for Public Holidays
Level 2, Shop 124 Strand Arcade Sydney
Open Mon - Tues - Wed - Fri 10am - 5.30pm Thurs 10am - 7pm and Sat 10am - 4pm

F!NK & Co. @ Metalab

2010-12-12T19:46:00.000-08:00

Last thursday we opened the F!nk & Co. installation and product launch. A big thank you to everyone that came to the opening. The show, which includes their new maraca-esque salt and pepper shakers and also a great collection of earrings made from their signature anodised aluminium, runs until the 23rd of December. Come by and see this fantastic installation and have a look the new F!nk product range.

Earrings by F!NK & Co.

Open Late every Thursday until Christmas

2010-12-06T18:31:00.000-08:00

Metalab is open late for Thursday night shopping!
As part of an initiative led by a group of local Surry Hills retailers, Metalab will be open late for Thursday night shopping leading up to Christmas.

For more information visit - www.surryhillsassoc.com/openlate or keep an eye out for flyers and posters around Surry Hills.

See you then,

D

The Journey by Robert Foster and Frost Design

2010-12-05T22:43:00.000-08:00

As we have the F!nk product launch on this week, we thought we’d revisit the monumental lighting installation by Robert Foster and Frost Design for ACTEWAGL’s 10th anniversary.

Photography - Indesignlive

The installation consists of 37 opaque acrylic heat moulded ‘Ossolites’ each lit by thousands of programmed LEDs changing ‘to create dramatic sequences of light, colour and movement throughout the installation.’

Photography - Indesignlive

Cesar and I were lucky enough to see this project in its development (well – a few days before it was to be installed to be exact) and although we tried to imagine how the finished installation would look there was no chance to imagine just how breathtaking and visually stunning this collaborative installation would be.

Photography - Indesignlive

Indesignlive posted a great feature of “The Journey” installation on their site, please visit their site for a look at the full feature.

Photography - Indesignlive

Also, don’t forget to come to Metalab on Thursday the 9th of December for the F!nk product launch at 6pm. We will be showcasing their latest range of lighting, jewellery and tableware.

See you all there,

D

National Contemporary Jewellery Award 2010

2010-09-20T21:00:00.000-07:00

Photography - Kristy Brown Griffith Regional Art Gallery 2010

Metalab would like to congratulate Simon Cottrell for winning the National Contemporary Jewellery Award for 2010.


Bulbs to Barn Doors? 2009. Sheet Monel 400 Alloy Photography - Kristy Brown Griffith Regional Art Gallery 2010

Cesar Cueva was on the panel of judges this year alongside Sabine Pagan, jeweller and Course co-ordinator BA Jewellery, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga and Hal Martin, Director of Griffith Regional Theatre and Art Gallery.

Photography - Kristy Brown Griffith Regional Art Gallery 2010

The works from the 39 finalists will be on display at the Griffith Regional Art Gallery until the end of the month. The finalists include:

Brendan Adair-Smith, Marina Antoniou, Kristy-Lee Agresta, Jane Bowden, Melissa Cameron, Simon Cottrell, Catherine Da Costa, Anna Davern, Christopher Earl Mibourne, Susan Frisch, Emi Fukuda, Linda Hughes, Tassia Joannides, Jin Ah Jo, Puneet Jodhka, Erin Keys, Ingrid Lockley, Chris Massey, Leslie Matthews, Claire O’Halloran, George Plionis, Nicole Polentas, Jessamy Pollock, Phoebe Porter, Brenda Ridgewell, Amy Robson, Regine Schwarzer, Mitsue Slattery, Bernadette Trainor, Linda Van Niekerk, Kathryn Wardill, Andrew Welch and Katherine Wheeler.

Congratulations to all the finalists.

Photography - Kristy Brown Griffith Regional Art Gallery 2010

Until next time,

D

Designer Sushi - John Lee

2010-08-27T01:40:00.000-07:00

John Lee is a long established graphic designer who recently turned his attention to the development of his current work, a constructivist exploration of his cross-cultural heritage. Although designed for the wall, his works are neither painting nor sculpture but rather, three-dimensional graphic statements. His use of symbolism, where the ‘rivet’ might reference construction methods found in both the Forbidden City and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, permeates his work. Thus, inspiration from Designer Sushi box, led John to what he terms, “the symbolic edge of creativity” and thinking outside the (sushi) box.

Heart shape cutters - die cutting with love;
Metal buttons - bonding with rivets.
Warm heart - radiant red;
Cold metal - night black.

All in the thinking or just an outer head.

Designer Sushi - Joké Van Der Flier

2010-08-26T21:41:00.000-07:00

Joké Van Der Flier is a fascinating silversmith that has kindly lent her wares to Designer Sushi. Having originally trained in Netherlands at the Vakschool Schoonhoven, Joké relocated to Perth from her native Holland in the late seventies, working in her own Studio Workshop while also teaching jewellery and metalsmithing until 1995. In the late nineties, Joké moved to Sydney and now works and designs for an Antique Jewellery Shop, Martin & Stein, in the Queen Victoria Building.

Joké’s Designer Sushi is a fantastic wearable piece, coming to us with this grand neckpiece. She used and arranged all the pieces found in her Sushi box to combine and create a wonderful black rubber and metal clad wearable work of art.

This is truly as Joké has stated Designer Sushi “Good Enough To Wear” where “the desire to adorn is for ever present.”

Thank you Joké.

Designer Sushi - Karin Findeis

2010-08-26T21:31:00.000-07:00

Karin Findeis is a jeweller whose work explores the relationship between the person, as a being, and the object being worn. Looking directly at the individual and their relationship with their worn adornment, her craft has seen her exhibit locally and internationally. Karin is well versed in all aspects of jewellery, working as a practicing maker, a curator and, more recently, holding the position of Chair of the Jewellery and Object Studio at the Sydney College of the Arts.

Below are a few words by Karin, about her Designer Sushi outcome -

“Looking at the things in my box it was the tones and textures that I noticed first. They were muted shades of blues and greens with wood grainsand circular shapes. A sample piece of aqua blue rubber was the thing I wanted to touch. I liked it the most - the colour, texture, density. So I started playing with rubber...”

Designer Sushi - Indesign Group

2010-08-24T00:50:00.000-07:00

The Indesign Group is a magazine and publishing company that plays a large role in the educating the public and promoting Australian and international design. Responsible for Indesign, DQ, Habitus Living and The Collection magazines, as well as holding the Saturday in Design, and Launch Pad events, they are instrumental in ensuring that the latest news from Australia and around the world is readily available, be it online or via one of their fantastic publications.

The Indesign Designer Sushi outcome, “Kaleiding Realities: 3D to 2D - A Media Reality”, is a direct play on their industry and the way they communicate with us, the reader, on a day-to-day basis -

“Communication is one of the most basic human needs, but is also one of the most complex. Each day, we at Indesign Publishing take three-dimensional structures and objects and translate them into two-dimensional formats.

Our aim is to represent an experience of architectural forms and industrial design products through the lens of a magazine, using just words and images.

This collection of prints is a creative interpretation of the three-dimensional objects found in the Designer Sushi box. Each print is like looking at an object through a kaleidoscope – taking the objects and re-interpreting their stories in new ways.”

Designer Sushi is on until the end of the month, be sure to come through and see all the fantastic outcomes.

See you then,

D

Designer Sushi - Adam Goodrum

2010-08-24T00:33:00.000-07:00

Adam Goodrum has established himself as one of Australia’s leading designers, particularly in the realm of product design. Having graduated from UTS with an Industrial Designer major, Adam has won many prestigious awards, such as the Bombay Sapphire Award in 2004, and has seen his designs go on to be produced by some of the world’s largest design manufacturers, his Stitch chair being developed by Cappellini in 2008. He also plays a large role in the development of young designers, returning to UTS as an educator and sharing his wealth of knowledge with his students.

Adam’s Designer Sushi outcome is a thermoformed side table. His Sushi box consisted of a number of different tazos, floppy discs, fabric samples and poker chips. Adam used the colours as his Sushi cue, with each acrylic component taking on the different colours he found in his box.

Hope you get a chance to see this fabulous outcome here at the gallery. Feel free to visit, Designer Sushi is running through until the end of the month.

See you soon,

D

Designer Sushi - James Casey Brown and Caroline Casey

2010-08-23T01:04:00.000-07:00

Caroline Casey and James Casey Brown are the next team to present a beautiful Designer Sushi outcome. Caroline Casey is a multi-talented, award-winning designer. Her work and designs have been exhibited both nationally and internationally, much of which can be seen through her exclusive contemporary furniture for Anibou and at the world's leading museums, including San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, the National Gallery of Australia, the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney and the Art Gallery of South Australia.

This fantastic team, Carolyn Casey and James Casey Brown, lent us their skills to bring us “Englebert”. Here are a few words telling the tale of how Englebert came to life.

“Englebert evolved over a couple of days on the floor of the living room quietly amongst all the chaos of a busy family. He survived an energetic dog begging to play ball, cello practice, home work, file sorting and finally was rescued by Metalab, where he rests in peace.”

Designer Sushi is on until the end of the month, come past and meet Englebert and see all the other fantastic Sushi outcomes.

See you soon,

D

Designer Sushi - Alistair Trung

2010-08-23T00:59:00.000-07:00

Alistair Trung is a fabulously talented fashion designer who prides himself in “breaking the rules” and designing clothes that women love. His work as he describes it is ‘trans-seasonal, trans- occasional, trans-age, trans- size and ultimately trans- gender’. By staying true to his own style and “rules” he has established himself as highly respected and successful designer in the fashion industry.

Alistair’s Designer Sushi outcome could be said to be true to his style and breaks all conventional rules. The “Altar to George Michael’s Look-A-Like” quite simply speaks a million word without saying much at all … “EAT THAT !!!”

Be sure to come through and see all the Designer Sushi outcomes, the show closes at the end of the month.

See you soon,

D

Designer Sushi - Object Gallery

2010-08-18T01:11:00.000-07:00

Object is a non-profit organization promoting the very best in contemporary craft and design. Object's gallery is the largest Australian venue dedicated to changing exhibitions of contemporary craft and design. As “Australia’s leading Centre for Craft and Design”, Object works closely with the cream of Australia's craftspeople and designers, but for Designer Sushi the creative making reins were handed over to Object's dedicated behind-the-scenes team.

Object's Designer Sushi response drew directly from the theme of their current exhibition Blue. Here are some words from Object regarding their Designer Sushi submission -

“We were trying to link our work with the theme of our current exhibition - Blue. So we bound, sewed, wrapped, painted and even crocheted our little pieces. Because there were a number of us, we found connecting the individual pieces challenging and badges were a quick and simple solution. Really it was just about having fun and doing something together. We were laughing a lot at the end.”

Hope to see you at metalab soon.

We'll be talking,

D

Designer Sushi - Victoria Moxey of Urban Walkabout

2010-08-18T00:49:00.000-07:00

Victoria Moxey is the creator and publisher of Urban Walkabout Shopping Guides. These fantastic free pocket sized guides, along with the terrific Urban Walkabout website are a great resource for where to find the best fashion, design and food around Sydney. Victoria is also one of the founders of the Urban Walkabout Tours which lead small groups on an intimate shopping tour around Sydney, giving shoppers an inside scoop on Sydney's hottest fashion and style destinations.

The Urban Walkabout Designer Sushi piece gathered inspiration from the wooden letters, jewellery made from a recycled road sign, a rubber stamp and some long white plastic sticks contained in their Sushi Box. These objects inspired the creation of a map-like canvas with “each piece connected by string, showing a million different possibilities of making connections, of learning, of creating paths - bringing onto the canvas the illusion of a map with locations, traveling routes, and things we collect along the way”. Red pins act as markers along the journey with the final “thread in suspense” showing “the infinite number of possibilities still open for new directions, new explorations, new ways of looking and telling stories.”

Be sure to come past the gallery to view all the Designer Sushi outcomes. The exhibition is on until the end of August.

See you then,

D

Designer Sushi - Lee Mathers

2010-08-16T22:53:00.000-07:00

Lee Mathers is a fabulous glass artist who has been kind enough to lend her skills to Designer Sushi. Graduating from Sydney College of the Arts in 2007 and recently completing her Masters, Lee has received many awards and accolades for her work. She has also completed a mentorship with acclaimed artist Janet Laurence, during which she worked closely with Janet on new projects and works.

For Designer Sushi, Lee produced some fantastic ‘Creativity Pills’ complete with their own blister pack. Lee's Sudhi Box was made up of random utilitarian fittings and fasteners, small stamping letters and circles cut out of a silver sheet, inspiring the ‘Creativity Pills’ which were a born via a combination of circles, a flu, too many Strepsils and some creative brilliance. Lee created a glass 'blister pack' which holds the plaster 'creativity pills' each with the words 'create' stamped across the top.

Lee Mathers and Janet Laurence will be exhibiting at Object Gallery between 23 October and 12 December 2010. Be sure to visit this space for more information regarding that exhibition.

Keep an eye out on The Design VLog, where Lee speaks with Emma Elizabeth about her piece for Designer Sushi.

See you soon,

D

Designer Sushi - F!NK and Co.

2010-08-16T01:26:00.000-07:00

F!NK and Co. is a design studio founded in 1993 by Robert Foster. Designing a range of fantastic innovative household objects and wearables from the iconic F!NK water jug to the Heart brooch, no two pieces are exactly the same. Each piece is unique as they are limited to relatively small units, individually hand finished in the F!NK workshop. "F!NK is not just a showcase for Foster’s internationally-renowned exhibition pieces, but a production house for the work of an increasing pool of young designers, and a name synonymous with spirited and distinctive Australian design."

For Designer Sushi, the team at F!NK have made an experimental sculptural light. The bicycle tubes and three glass vials found in their Sushi Box inspired an inflated illuminated object with alien appeal.

Be sure to pop past the gallery to see the rest of the Designer Sushi outcomes.

See you soon,

D

Designer Sushi - Liane Rossler

2010-08-16T00:18:00.000-07:00

Liane Rossler of Dinosaur Designs provided the following Designer Sushi outcome. As one of the three founders of Dinosaur Designs (along with Stephen Ormandy and Louise Olsen), Liane has seen their business grow from humble beginnings to one of the most successful and highly respected design companies in the country. Along with Dinosaur Designs, Liane is also highly involved in a number of environmentally aware organisations - she is one of the driving forces behind Greenups and Knitty, Gritty and Loopy, respectively. (Be sure to check out their websites as both are fantastic projects).

Liane’s Designer Sushi outcome was inspired by jams, more particularly the jam container rubbers that were found in her sushi box. Using a combination of different coloured HAMA beads, each representing the seeds of the inspired jams, she has created this stunning piece.

Be sure to visit us here at Metalab to view all the fantastic Designer Sushi outcomes.

See you soon,

D

Jewellery classes and workshop access at metalab

2010-08-15T22:07:00.000-07:00

We have recently updated our class timetable for the remainder of 2010. Here it is!

Small Stories Big Picture Bicycle Tours

2010-08-09T22:50:00.000-07:00

Over the past few weeks, as a part of the Sydney Design Festival ’10, Metalab, Cloth and I Ran The Wrong Way have been running bicycle tours around Surry Hills.

Armed with a LOMO camera, map, and a passport, participants are encouraged to discover Surry Hills on this self-guided tour, by bicycle or on foot, around one of Sydney’s design precincts. Venturing throughout the streets, participants are able to engage with the stories of the people who run the businesses in the area and capture their findings with their camera.

The resulting photos have been processed and displayed on a photo wall at The Beresford Hotel. There will be a closing party being held on Wednesday 18 August from 6pm showcasing everyone's fabulous images.

Here is a sneak peak of the ever growing photo wall and some of the great photographed findings.


Photo Wall at The Beresford

A closer look at the 'Big Picture'

Visit Small Stories Big Picture for more information on how you participate in this great event or call us here at the gallery.

D

Designer Sushi - Suzanne Boccalatte

2010-08-09T22:13:00.000-07:00

Metalab are proud to present the Designer Sushi outcome developed by Suzanne Boccalatte, a graphic designer who has lent her skills and talent to many award-winning campaigns and works. Her distinctive work, which is familiar from her campaigns for art organisations and Sydney Design, is approached with a thoughtful yet playful style and sense of humour.

Suzanne’s sushi box was made up of a strip of upholstery tape, cotton reels, copper balls, carpet, plastic numbers and a champagne cork. Its contents inspired her outcome by reminding her of an experience she’d had while in Brooklyn.

Here Suzanne tells the story of this wonderful experience:

“The sign on the drawer said, Please do not open'. It was a small drawer among many. The label which said ‘please do not open’ was a card encased by black painted metal. It doubled as a handle. 'Please do not open' was a simple message. Friendly and to the point. A polite request, nothing more and definitely nothing less. But still an urge to open it. A universal urge? An urge is an urge, collective or not. After studying the piece of card with that message, the urge seemed more intense. 'Just a peak', one thinks to oneself, surveying the environment. Person on the left, busy, ensconced in a task. No one to the right. Hand on handle. A quick and sneaky tug.

And with it 196 tiny metal balls released simultaneously onto the wooden floor, bouncing in all directions. Hands and knees scrambling to stop the cascading spheres, bouncing and jumping in all directions. Too many, too noisy. Fingers too big for tiny copper balls. A collection takes place. Finally quiet. Smiling knowing nods all round.”

Come to Metalab to see the various Designer Sushi outcomes.

See you then,

D

Designer Sushi - Exhibition Opening

2010-08-09T19:16:00.000-07:00

Designer Sushi opened last Thursday night and let me just say it was a fantastic night! The show looks amazing, there was a great turn out and it was a fun filled night for all the participating artists and people who attended. Here are a few shots from the night.

Designer Sushi is running through till the end of August, so be sure to come by the gallery and have a look at the show.

See you then,

D

Designer Sushi - Toko Design

2010-08-09T00:44:00.001-07:00

Toko is a multifaceted creative practice founded by Eva Dijkstra and Michael Lugmayr. Formerly based in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, this extremely talented duo have been realizing works for national and international clients across a wide range of fields, developing solutions that are often challenging to visual application, playful, unexpected and minimalist - all of which are definitely shown through their response to their Designer Sushi box.

Toko's sushi box contained a number of hoses, ranging from domestic garden to industrial hoses, all different colours, patterns and sizes.

Image Courtesy of Toko

In response, “DispHose” was created. A fantastically clever solution that directly responds to our current times. Toko say that the piece is “where reusability and poetry meet. A discarded water hose turned into a makeshift vase. A little idea to help reduce waste and generate a smile. 4 clamps, 8 screws and a hose, simplicity.”

Be sure to visit us here at Metalab to see the outcomes in the flesh.

D

Designer Sushi - Julie Paterson

2010-08-09T00:44:00.000-07:00

Julie Paterson, owner and designer of Cloth Fabric, has provided a set of paintings for Designer Sushi each representing a piece of the sushi box she was presented with. Julie runs Cloth with her small team, developing textiles and homewares from prototype to production through a very personal and involved process that sees her often painting designs on wood before moving on to produce limited-run ranges.

Here are a few words from Julie describing the process taken to develop her fantastic Designer Sushi outcome:

“I've just come back from a road trip going the long way around the coastline to Melbourne. Armed with a brand new travelers watercolour set, some cardboard and an Iphone I set out to record my journey by making 1 small painting and 1 photograph whenever I had a spare moment to stop and see. No glamorous scenes, just whatever I found in front of me.

So last week on my return when Cesar presented me with this small interesting box of goodies I thought I’d continue along the same road. Every day when I got home from work I chose something from the box to make a picture that would form part of a series representing one week of my life from the perspective of my favourite chair in the living room waiting for the late news to come on the TV.”

mmmh! - Designer Sushi in Germany

2010-08-08T23:44:00.000-07:00

As many of you now know, Designer Sushi is a collaborative project that was launched at Designer’s Open ’09 in Liepzig, Germany by mmmh!

The Designer Sushis were composed by the project group mmmh!,  consisting of the two Halle-based interior architects Michael Antons and Torsten Klocke as well as the designer Ruth Maria Sahner.   

Ruth Maria Sahner completed a jewellery apprenticeship and consecutive Design studies at Burg Giebichenstein University of Art and Design Halle. Since 2006, she has been working as a free-lance designer  in her own office in Halle.   Torsten Klocke is a trained cabinetmaker and studied Interior Architecture at Burg Giebichenstein University of Art and Design Halle.  In 2005 he set up the design studio Desarteur. Together with his  partner Juliane Bardthold, he develops spatial concepts and interior  design for private and commercial clients.   Michael Antons studied Interior Architecture at Burg Giebichenstein University of Art and Design Halle. Since 2007 he has been working as an assistant to  Professor Klaus Michel who heads the Furniture Design Department at  Burg Giebichenstein. As a part-time freelancer, he also designs  interiors, furniture and accessories.

Metalab would like to thank mmmh! for the chance to collaborate with them on this project and allowing us to bring this great concept to our space.

Designer Sushi is part of Sydney Design 10 and will run through to the end of August.

Make sure you come past Metalab to see the great outcomes we have received.

D

Designer Sushi - Karl Firla of Oscillate Wildly

2010-08-04T02:24:00.000-07:00

Karl Firla, Head Chef of Oscillate Wildly has been kind enough to lend his skills to Designer Sushi.

Karl, originally from Adelaide, has worked in a some of Sydney’s most esteemed kitchens, namely est. and Marque and has quite a reputation for his experimental, contemporary food.

The Menu - Please click to Enlarge

Karl’s amazing outcome was a dish inspired by ingredients that best represent the components presented to him in his Designer Sushi box. The way in which Karl has developed this fine dish draws on the social, artistic and technical components of food and the way it is presented.

Here is a video showing the wild methods that Karl has experimented with as part of his research into molecular gastronomy.

Hope to see you all tomorrow night at the opening

D

Big Picture for Creative Micro Businesses

2010-08-03T19:44:00.000-07:00

Craft Australia launched Share Your Stories, a national survey for creative micro enterprise at the State of Design festival in Melbourne.

The survey is designed to capture data about the contribution that creative micro enterprises make to the economy. Micro enterprises are amongst the fastest growing areas of business in this country. The contribution to the economy generated by such industries is not well documented, even less so when it comes to creative industries.

Craft Australia is the national peak advocacy organisation promoting Australian craft and design practice. The data from Share your Stories will be summarised and presented as an overall picture of Australian creative micro enterprises. This aggregated data will form the basis of advocacy activity that Craft Australia will undertake to promote this sector.

To take part in the share your stories survey and give your feedback on what it takes to make micro a success, go to http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MJGSXC2. The survey continues online till 30 August.

Craft Australia was at Idea Land, Design:Made:Trade fair from 15 – 19 July in the Royal Exhibition Building as part of the State of Design festival.

Mari Funaki: Objects at NGV Australia

2010-08-03T19:01:00.000-07:00

To celebrate Mari Funaki: Objects currently showing for free at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, the NGV Australia has 1 exhibition publication to giveaway. To be in the running to receive this great giveaway email your postal address to promotions@ngv.vic.gov.a u with Metalab in the subject line to win.

More information about the exhibition here http://bit.ly/dnbfDK

Image: Mari Funaki Object 2010. Collection of the Estate of Mari Funaki, Melbourne. ©

The Estate of Mari Funaki

Designer Sushi - Megan Morton

2010-08-02T23:13:00.000-07:00

The second outcome we have for you as part of this month’s Designer Sushi is from Megan Morton. Megan is a amazingly talented stylist and highly regarded interior designer that has worked on award winning projects both locally and internationally. Megan has also written a book, Home Love, that showcases her love for what she does or as she puts it her ‘fascination with interiors’, which provides tips and guides on great ways to decorate the home. The popular book has even got its own blog.

Megan’s outcome is a wonderful photograph, taken by Eliza Gorka, composed of the objects found in her sushi box. The photograph is warm and inviting, using the red hues of her sushi objects alongside household items to create this stunning still life.

Composed by Megan Morton Photography by Eliza Gorka

A great coincidence that we were made aware of some time ago was the fact that our good friend Dana Hughes actually lives in an apartment that was once lived in by Megan Morton. Visit Yellowtrace for Dana's take on the situation (it's definitely a more interesting read than the way I can describe it).

Also, Metalab would like say a big thank you to Megan for being so generous and providing us a copy of her fantastic book.

See everyone on Thursday...

D

Designer Sushi - Dana Hughes from Yellowtrace

2010-08-02T01:33:00.000-07:00

As previously mentioned, we’ve wrapped up the Metalab Collective exhibition and Designer Sushi is well and truly here. We have received a fair few outcomes so far and have to say everyone has gone above and beyond our expectations in their responses to the project.

The first of the received outcomes is a fantastic print by Dana Hughes. Dana is not only a talented Interior Designer and but also the brains behind Yellowtrace. Her fabulous blog is a designer’s must read, always providing an insight into ‘good’ design and clever people from around the world. (I have to admit I often catch myself waiting to see what will pop up on ‘Design Free Thursday’)

Dana’s print uses elements from her ‘Sushi box’ to create a lace-like pattern that reflects her cultural heritage and secret love for lace (well not so secret now).

Be sure to come to the Designer Sushi opening here at Metalab on Thursday Night 5 August @ 6pm to see this great print in the flesh.

Keep a look out for more outcomes, we'll be posting them here throughout the duration of the Designer Sushi exhibition.

D

Designer Sushi opening next Thursday 5 August

2010-07-30T04:36:00.000-07:00

Yes, it’s that time again. Metalab Collective 5 has wrapped up and we are currently installing our next exhibition – Designer Sushi.

Designer Sushi, in collaboration with mmmh! (Germany), showcases works developed by creative’s across a range of fields, including architects, designers, writers, bloggers and chefs.

Each creative is provided a ‘sushi box’ composed of bits and bites found in everyday life. These objects are removed from their familiar environment and become the starting point for the design process –a hose clamp meets a plastic crocodile, a chocolate cigarette box comes together with a raku-fired brooch, and an old appliance plug suddenly appears in an entirely new light.

The outcomes will then be exhibited between Metalab, Cloth and I Ran The Wrong Way during the Sydney Design Festival, 31st July to 15th August, with Metalab hosting the opening night on Thursday 5th August at 6pm.

Come by and see some of the outcomes this Saturday 31 July as part Small Stories Big Picture. Running over 3 weekends, participants are encouraged to unleash the photographer within, be it via bicycle or on foot, and explore the design precinct and lesser known parts of Surry Hills. Armed with a camera, map and their own Surry Hills passport, each participant is given the chance to listen to the many stories held deep within the streets and capture their findings in their own interpretive way.

Small Stories Big Picture will close at The Beresford on Wednesday 18th August with a Big Picture exhibition from 6pm.

For more information visit Small Stories Big Picture.

See you then ...

D

Metalab Collective 5 - Wood opening this Thursday 8 July

2010-07-04T18:54:00.000-07:00

We are currently installing our next exhibition Metalab Collective 5 - the annual exhibition showcasing the work of the team behind the scenes at metalab. As this year marks metalab's 5th year, the theme of the exhibition is the traditional 5th anniversary material: wood. The result promises to be a diverse and exciting exhibition of jewellery, objects and mixed media work inspired by or using wood by the current metalab Collective: Cesar Cueva, Cinnamon Lee, John Lee, Daniel Narvaez, Rita Rogers, Nadja Soloviev & Melinda Young. Accompanying the exhibition will be a special Master Class with Pennie Jagiello focusing on wire working techniques for jewellery making, including crochet on Saturday 17 July.

Dotted through this post is a sneak peek at some of the work:

John Lee, Boring, Synthetic Polymer on Wood

For those of you who are new to reading our blog, welcome and here is a little history about us:
metalab was established 5 years ago, on Fitzroy Place in Surry Hills, as a gallery and studio space for contemporary jewellery and object design by Cesar and Nina Cueva. metalab has a unique warm, inclusive ethos and has become a thriving hub for jewellery and metalsmithing enthusiasts, collectors, students and professional makers alike with a diverse and the metalab gallery has an exciting exhibition program showcasing the work of local and international makers across the spectrum of jewellery and object design.

The metalab workshop has expanded to hold regular jewellery making classes for beginners and advanced students alike as well as developing an exciting program of master classes by exhibiting artists. It also offers bench access to experienced makers.

The metalab studio produces bespoke jewellery and object design as well as working on design and development for production, producing architectural scale artworks, lighting design and sculptural installations for a broad private and corporate clientele.

Nadja Soloviev, It's Nuts Bangles, Walnut & 925 Silver

metalab has also made a successful venture into the world of retail with its COTA (Courtesy of the Artist) store opening 3 years ago on Bourke St Surry Hills and recently relocating to level 2 of Sydney’s historic Strand Arcade.

Over the past 5 years many amazing and talented people have been involved with metalab, from established makers, educators and curators through to a dynamic and enthusiastic group of interns and volunteers. We would like to take this opportunity to thank them all for their wonderful contributions to the metalab story as we celebrate the success of our first 5 years and look forward to the next 5 and beyond!

Metalab Collective 5 Exhibition opening: Thursday 8 July 6pm - 8pm

The exhibition runs until 31 July

Pennie Jagiello Workshop: Saturday 17 July 2010 from 10am - 4pm

Cost: $95/$85 concession

Bookings: Please send us an email: info@metalab.com.au or call 8354 1398

Cinnamon Lee, Graft Neckpiece, Oxidised 925 Silver

Meet some of the Metalab Collective makers...

Cesar Cueva is a Sydney based designer/maker working primarily in jewellery and objects shifting dramatically in size and intent. In his practice he draws from a number of interests and experiences: the practice of the precise craft of goldsmithing, an embrace of manufactured materials, the possibilities in appropriating manufacturing and digital design technologies within a craft context. His works are exercises in form, pattern and technical innovation characterised by concerns with abstraction and minimalism.

As director of Metalab Creative, Cesar has applied himself to creating a mutli-disciplined and multi-facetted practice. Collaborations with other artists and designers have resulted in innovative objects and a range of jewellery marketed under the Metalb Colab moniker. The largest metalab initiative to date has been the COTA - Courtesy of the Artist concept store in Sydney’s Strand Arcade.

Cinnamon Lee is an Australian metalsmith who specialises in exploiting new manufacturing technologies in conjunction with traditional gold and silversmithing techniques to produce objects that explore the intersection between technology, the machine and the hand made. Cinnamon is particularly fascinated by the potential of processes such as 3D computer modeling and rapid prototyping to inform new approaches to making. Cinnamon studied jewellery and object design at the Sydney Institute of Technology before completing her honours degree in visual art at The Australian National University School of Art. Having recently completed post-graduate studies in Canberra, Cinnamon has relocated her studio to Sydney’s Metalab where she continues to explore the role of digital technologies within craft practice. Cinnamon regularly exhibits her work nationally and internationally and has had a number of works acquired by the National Gallery of Australia.

Melinda Young completed a Bachelor of Visual Arts with Honours in 1999 and a Master of Visual Arts in 2002, both at Sydney College of the Arts, University of Sydney. She has participated in over 95 group exhibitions in Australia and overseas since 1997 and had recent solo and two person exhibitions in Australia and New Zealand. Melinda also designs and makes several production jewellery ranges, which are sold in galleries around Australia. In 2008 she won the inaugural Jewellers and Metalsmiths Group of Australia, NSW Profile Award for an established artist and her work has been included in several books. Melinda has worked at contemporary craft and design galleries since 1999; she has curated and co-ordinated contemporary jewellery exhibitions, written about jewellery and craft practice for various publications and participated in numerous workshops and master classes. She has recently taught workshops at galleries and universities in Australia and New Zealand. Since 2000, Melinda has taught jewellery at both community colleges and tertiary level. Currently she is working on several freelance projects as well as at Object Gallery, Studio 20/17 and Metalab where she assists with the running of the gallery and teaches classes.

Nadja Soloviev has been interested in jewellery for a long time; her parents run a small boutique in her hometown where they sell gemstones and jewellery and she visited her first jewellery fair at the age of 6. Nadja soon joined her parents in their shop developing a passion for jewellery that has shaped her life. In 2009 she graduated from the Goldsmithing School Pforzheim (Germany) as a state certified designer for jewellery and objects with Honours. After graduating she commenced a year-long internship at Metalab Gallery in Sydney. Nadja will be based at Metalab until August 2010 when she will return to Germany to commence a further 6 years of study at the Art Academy in Nürnberg (Germany) in the Gold and Silversmithing class with Professor Ulla Mayer. Nadja has participated in several group exhibitions in Germany and Australia, including Prunkstück (show-piece) at the Jewellery Museum Pforzheim and As We Like It at the Goldschmiedehaus Hanau, Germany and Christmas Rocks at Metalab Gallery, Sydney. Nadja mostly works with silver, but also adds other materials- sometimes she uses traditional jewellery materials like gold or stones, at other times more unusual ones- like wood, fabric or found objects. In her latest creations Nadja has been working with very thin sheet metal, folding it or applying pressure to form it.

Rita Rogers is the newest member of the Metalab Collective. She is currently in her third year of a Bachelor of Fine Arts majoring in Jewellery and Object Design at the College of Fine Arts in Sydney. Rita’s undergraduate study enables her to explore a variety of mediums and techniques and continually build upon her skill base - learning processes which in turn encourage her to develop an individual style and ideas. Working at Metalab as a workshop and gallery assistant, Rita has the opportunity to observe and to learn from other makers. This creative environment has helped her to continue to develop her conceptual language and also put in to practice the knowledge gained at university.

Rita’s work is largely influenced by her environment and everyday life; everything from busy city life to the beautiful beaches along the coast are constant sources of inspiration.

Last Days... David Neale Some and None : Jewellery as Graphics

2010-06-27T21:23:00.000-07:00

David Neale's beautiful exhibition Some and None : Jewellery as Graphics ends this weekend - don't miss out! Here are some pictures of the exhibition opening...

To see some really super images from the exhibition and a mini review, visit Clog - the wonderful blog from our friends at Craft Victoria. Thanks to the lovely Kim Brockett for the post!

Working hard!

2010-06-22T00:41:00.000-07:00

The metalab team are all working hard (as usual). Aside from all the regular things we do though, we have all been busy making new work inspired by wood for the upcoming Metalab Collective 5 - Wood exhibition.

Why wood? Well, this year marks metalab's 5th anniversary - so we have chosen wood as it is the traditional anniversary gift for such an occasion.

Each member of the metalab team has been working on the theme in a really different way across a range of different media, so the exhibition promises to be a diverse and exciting one!

Even Mr Esteban has been working hard keeping us entertained and perfecting his cute pose, we think he is doing a fine job!

We will be posting more information about the show and introducing the metalab collective in coming weeks!

An interview with David Neale - Part 2

2010-06-07T21:51:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Part 2 of our interview with current exhibitor David Neale as he gives an insight into some of the inspiration behind his work, tells us about his blog and takes us inside his studio... we hope you enjoy reading more about his fascinating practice.

A big thank you to David for taking the time to answer our questions so beautifully and thoughtfully!

Your work is largely populated by botanical forms, creatures and recently, bread… what attracts you to these themes?
I don't know what it's about, it's just instinct! It says something about what I love though, and what I belong to. I really have made a lot of leaves... maybe this is a ‘paradise lost’ thing- wanting to return to a beautiful garden with the animals. We all want that.
Sometimes I will feature themes that you mightn't expect in jewellery- like the rye bread- but I think bread is really special, so it works for me as a precious idea!

Your work could generally be described as figurative, yet for this most recent body of work there appears to be an increasing abstraction of form - of plant life in particular, what has drawn you away from the more realistic depictions of plants that were so much a part of your earlier work?
The English language is pretty awesome- because it's made up of all kinds of things from different places and times- it's so massive and sprawling, which enables you to say the same thing in so many ways with slight nuances... I want my jewellery to be like that too; to just say what it needs to say... So the ‘vocabulary’ is growing, changing, freeing up I think... even though I’m using realism and abstraction too, I consciously try to keep it within a style that I hope people recognise as coming from one place.
The plant-form subject matter could be endlessly explored, but it doesn't tell the whole of my story... There was always more geometrical, abstract work being made by me, but I didn't show it, or it was rejected by galleries on the basis that it didn't make sense next to all the plants. I got some off-the-cuff, yet sage advice from fellow jeweller Lucy Folk, to “just make whatever you think is cool”- and so I started to just insist that its all the same thing. In a larger, varied group of work, the relationship between styles becomes clearer.

Please can you describe what you mean by ‘jewellery as graphics’?
I’ve realised that jewellery is a form of graphic communication.
Actually, I’m claiming that jewellery is the mother of graphics- because the act of adorning ourselves probably came before painting or writing. This is hardly a groundbreaking revelation, but it sort of helps me to ‘see’ better, to know what I’m aiming for. Some jewellery might be a distinct type of sign, other times more obscure- either way, it makes use of all the tricks that you find in graphics plus a few more. Shapes, colours, lines and contrasts combine to form more complicated elements like symbols, pictures, signifiers, allusions. The goldsmith can turn this into a wearable language that other people can read.
In a very literal way too, Ive been cut’n’pasting, scribbling, drawing and painting on the metal, to make pictures or emblems in a way that is like a graphic artist.

Can you tell us a little about the idea of ‘some and none’.
I’m using this title as a way of describing a basic opposite. To be able to control opposites in a pleasing way within a piece is crucial to making lively jewellery. This is because if you can set up ‘good tensions’, you get sparks- and these might serve as the jewel-like aspect of the piece- the part that makes it distinctive, interesting, suprising...lovable.

You write a fascinating blog – www.thegoldensmith.blogspot.com

What inspired you to start blogging and what is the relationship of your blog to your making practice? Do you regard it as a kind of visual diary?
The Golden Smith is a bit of a ‘Swiss army knife’ blog- it does everything! My main aim is to entertain you, and share a little window into my world. Through it, I can show you what I’ve been making lately, and write about the ideas behind my work, and also anything else that interests and inspires me. I try to keep it relevant to my life as a goldsmith, but that’s fairly broad.
I'm not sure how well it serves me- maybe I'm just inspiring all the other jewellers!
I think though, that it has really changed my practice- I can gather my thoughts more meaningfully, I'm reaching out to more people, I care more about all the aspects of being a goldsmith- its been a bit of a re-birth for my vocation, I find that I am more enthusiastic than ever!
Blogs are quite a phenomenon- I really enjoy reading them and writing one.

What is your studio like?

I'm always sweeping my studio. I make a lot of mess, but also I sweep to clear my mind (or procrastinate).
Currently my studio is very small, I would love to have a bigger one so I could do amazing stuff like welding or Raku ceramics or blacksmithing or chainsaw carving - but its just as well to be small- I need it to be so, that I might focus better on jewellery. Actually I'm thinking about making an even smaller studio that has almost nothing in it except the barely essential tools; Hammer. Stump. Flame. Seat... wait... I'm getting too technical. Lou Reed said; “Two chords is enough. Any more and its Jazz.” (Then again, John Cale said that Lou is not a very imaginative person).
I think ultimately, the goldsmith’s studio is a work in itself. It takes years to make it good. To love all the objects. To configure it in the most pleasant yet efficient way. “The flow of energy through a system acts to organise that system” - this sounds New-Agey, but its actually a quote from a bio-physicist- I think its really interesting. In the system that is my workshop- I am the flow of energy (and I act like I’m organising it...).

What is your favourite tool?

I use my laptop quite a bit. It is an amazing tool, but it is so complex, and reliant on a whole raft of things outside itself, like power, the internet and so on- so in spite of its awesomeness, it has an ironic aura of limitation.
The opposite to this is a hammer; such a great object- just two parts, a pleasing swing, infinite function... Hammers are my favourite. After all, I am a smith- and to 'smith' is to 'smite'.
Right, I'm going to go hammer something...

David Neale's solo exhibition Some and None : jewellery as graphics is showing at metalab until 1 July 2010.

An interview with David Neale... Part 1

2010-05-31T00:57:00.000-07:00

Our current exhibition is Some and None : Jewellery as Graphics by Melbourne based goldsmith David Neale. Many jewellery fans will already probably be familiar with David's beautiful work, but as this is David's first solo exhibition in Sydney we thought it would be good to introduce him properly with an interview and he has kindly taken the time to give us an insight into his practice.

What led you to gold and silversmithing?
The little David displayed a talent for making small things, and this was praised. Dad would say - "that's ingenious”, and I’d say “what’s ingee-nee-us?” My family has a respect for the crafts- so it was a natural progression. My early ambition was to be a sculptor, but there is something about the scale of goldsmithing that drew me in. Perhaps most of all; the whole realm of the goldsmith is so fascinating, with all the elements, chemicals, fire, danger, risk and loss! (like how you can just melt something at the final stage if you aren't concentrating!!)
It’s entrancing and beguiling, in goldsmithing there are always techniques to master, secrets to uncover. I'm alway learning and growing.

How would you describe your practice?
I would describe it like this;
It took quite a long time realise that I am truly a goldsmith. I always was really, but went through stages of doubt; ‘’is this a worthwhile pursuit? Can I provide for my family?’- those kind of potentially crippling questions. Now I see it clearly. It's what I do, it's what I am. I want to make jewellery and objects that are lively and loved.

You have a very distinctive approach to the use of materials in your work – how did this evolve? How does it continue to evolve?
By definition, jewellery has to be distinctive. If it is overly predictable, it doesn't fulfill its function- you cant see it anymore or worse- it is dead on arrival!
I often quote Hermann Jünger to myself (with German accent): “what makes one piece live and another die?”
So, hating that feeling that a piece is not ‘alive’ when I’ve made it- I try really hard to make things distinctive; interesting textures, colours and so on.
It's a bit like a conversation between the maker and the material. Some materials don't let you get get a word in edgewise! (like cut diamonds- it's very hard to make something distinctive with them because they are so complete) On the other hand, some materials are so reticent (Like polymer clay- you have to do all the work otherwise it just looks pathetic).
At all times though, material choice is simply a matter of what is available to me. In lean times I just couldn't afford gold. But there is always wood, or steel or bone or... something!
Some artists talk about a “democracy of materials” meaning that everything is everything- which I agree with on a universal, philosophical level- but at the Goldsmith’s bench this philosophy falls down. There really is a hierarchy of materials.

Earrings, bone and gold.

Cuff, brass

Do you have a favourite material?

Gold.
It is truly beautiful. I never used to like it though, probably because as a youngster I had only ever seen highly polished 9k- which as I gradually realised, is hardly the truth about Gold.
I decided to go gold panning in my early 20’s- you know, a whole lot of mud and gravel and sloshing around in a creek. To begin with it was demoralising, unsuccessful, I would be squinting into the bottom of the pan, asking “is that gold? hmmm. Is that gold? errr.........”. But when I finally found some gold amongst the gravel, it was a wonderful moment! An unmistakable glow- it was electrifying- I shouted “Ha-Haa!” (then hushed myself and looked around suspiciously)

I’m recounting this to illustrate that you might think you know gold, because, you know, you’ve seen it around... but you really don't know much until you get it from the earth and then make something out of it. (Reminds me of a country song; “I’ve forgotten more than you’ll ever know about her”)

There is growing interest in ethically-sourced gold- a worthy and interesting pursuit, I think- not only in the interests of the planet and human rights- but in establishing value for the material. Provenance is a very important factor in determining the value of an object. Antique dealers exploit that, so should jewellers.

What is your approach to making?
There are so many steps involved in making just one piece when you're goldsmithing... it’s easy to kill the idea, or just melt the whole thing!
I sometimes feel jealous of painters who can just put-the-brush-right-on-the-canvas! Immediacy- that’s what I love when making. However, that sort of rawness is not easy to control. You have to be talented and disciplined. Not having either of those qualities in large measure, I tend to make a lot of duds. But when a piece is successful; when it seems to be more than what I've put into it- this is the most enjoyable aspect of the whole pursuit.

How influenced are you by historical styles and techniques of making?
Well, techniques-wise, everything I do was basically practiced by the Egyptians (and probably the earlier chaps too) in the same way, so... there.
I'm not doing any historico-metallurgical re-enactments, but I do love that kind of thing.
Styles-wise, I have certainly found lots of inspiration from various ancient civilisations, or more accurately: confirmation? encouragement?
To explain: I began to make things in a very simple or crude way, setting myself free; looking for an immediacy of expression, for that rigour or liveliness I mentioned earlier- and then I saw that exact quality in the gold work of Scythia or the Pre-Coloumbian
The early Americans had no iron tools (imagine!) so gold was beaten into sheet with stones probably. This sheet work has an extraordinary quality- very subtle modulation in the surface- hard to describe, but very beautiful to my eye. Not as equal or consistent as later European smithing. I love this kind of observation.
I’m not retreating into the past because the present seems repugnant or the future bleak. Rather, I’m drawn to a simple life, with a more direct involvement with the earth...

Stay tuned for Part 2 next week!

Cesar Cueva and Lisa-Maree Carrigan Create a Date for Monument magazine

2010-05-30T23:00:00.000-07:00

As part of Monument magazine's ongoing 'creative blind date' series, Metalab's Creative Director, Cesar Cueva was teamed up with architect Lisa-Maree Carrigan, Director at Group GSA Sydney. Their task: to design a new bike rack.

You can see the exciting results in issue #97 of Monument magazine out now. Meanwhile here's a sneak peek of some sketches from the project which are posted on the Monument website.

The Monument website has also posted two fantastic videos of Cesar and Lisa-Maree discussing their collaboration. You can view Part 1 by clicking here and Part 2 by clicking here

There will be a Create-a-Date LIVE event on Wednesday 2nd June 2010 at the Mico Showroom in East Sydney. Lisa Maree and Cesar will be discussing their 'creative blind date' experience. Again, visit the Monument website for details.

Some and None : Jewellery as Graphics by David Neale

2010-05-23T19:58:00.000-07:00

Metalab is delighted to present Some and None: Jewellery as Graphics, a collection of jewellery created by Melbourne based goldsmith David Neale.

Join David for the exhibition opening on Thursday 3 June from 6 - 8pm at metalab 10b Fitzroy Place Surry Hills. The exhibition runs until 1 July 2010.

In this body of work Neale borrows techniques from the graphics studio such as painting, collage and line-work, using them at the jeweller's bench to make signs for the body and to tell wearable stories. The result is an exquisite collection of finely crafted treasures for our times.

For Neale, the visual power of jewellery is basic, lying in distinctive shapes, colours and textures. His work has a unique and graphic language, one that doesn't always follow the familiar 'grammar' of jewellery - it isn't always shiny, or smooth, or metallic - he uses paint, inscribes lines and text on bold shapes. Neale often treats metal like paper, cutting it with scissors, folding and scratching text onto it - an approach to making that is immediate and ‘un-precious’ but that invests the work with emotion and humour, making reference to his fascination with the rich history of goldsmithing. The works in this exhibition have been assembled with a collage-like approach, layering up a play of opposites within the jewellery object: obvious vs. obscure, rough vs. refined, precious vs. poor, some vs. none.

David Neale studied Gold and Silversmithing at RMIT, Melbourne. He has exhibited extensively in Australia and overseas, this is his first solo exhibition in Sydney.

Coming soon: an interview with David Neale

Bi-re-cycle workshop with Nikolay Sardamov

2010-05-16T21:20:00.001-07:00

The Bi-re-cycle Workshop held in conjunction with Nikolay Sardamov's solo exhibition Continuum took place at metalab on Saturday 8 May. It was a fantastic day and the enthusiastic participants really got into experimenting with bicycle tyre inner tubes as a material for making jewellery. By the end of the day everyone had made some fabulous pieces, see below for some shots of work in progress and finished work.

It was wonderful to have Nikolay here is Sydney for a week, we enjoyed his warmth and good humor so much and miss him now he has returned to Europe. Come back and visit us again soon Nikolay!

If you haven't visited already, Nikolay's exhibition runs until 27 May 2010.

Continuum by Nikolay Sardamov

2010-05-11T00:18:00.000-07:00

Some shots of Nikolay's exhibition:

Stay tuned for some pictures of the fantastic workshop he gave here on Saturday...

Nikolay Sardamov Exhibition Opening

2010-05-11T00:06:00.000-07:00

The opening of Nikolay Sardamov's exhibition Continuum last Thursday evening was fantastic. The show looks fantastic and it was so great having Nikolay here!

An interview with Nikolay Sardamov

2010-05-03T21:19:00.000-07:00

Firstly, please can you tell us a little about your background. What led you to jewellery? It developed very logically. I graduated from the metal class in the professional School for Applied Arts in Sofia. Besides jewelry we learned silversmithing and the technique of forged iron. After that I started a study of art pedagogy or art education at the University in Sofia. Parallel to my studies at the university, a former classmate Angelina Tsvetkova and I decided to set up our own jewellery workshop, where we could experiment and learn from each other. We worked together in this atelier for several years. It was a very fruitful and productive period for both of us. Nowadays my atelier is in the apartment where I live.

How would you describe your practice? Jewellery became my profession and I would not feel like a fully-fledged person without it. I love making jewellery. For me it is a very pleasant process of searching, experimenting and becoming more skillful.Where do you work? Can we have a peek into your studio? My workshop is part of my apartment in Sofia. It is equipped with all instruments I need and I am also close to the people I rely on for my work: my assistant Yana Pashova and my caster Dimitar Ivanov, who is based in the beautiful Bulgarian town of Plovdiv. I don’t know if my atelier is perfect, but I do feel comfortable there.

Your practice spans a range of different jewellery styles, could you explain them? Is there a common thread that runs through all of your work? I love to experiment, to look for new materials, forms and colours for my pieces. Maybe this is the reason why they are so different, but in every body of work a part of my personality shows, as well as my understanding of beauty and my feelings.

What are your main sources of inspiration? I can get an inspiration in any given moment and by all sorts of things: From a conversation with a friend to something I have found on the street.

The concept behind the bi-re-cycle work is an intriguing one – what led you to explore the bicycle inner tube as a means of adornment? I started experimenting with this material in Salzburg, Austria. I participated in a summer academy course in 2003, in the class of Erico Nagai.In search of new materials and inspiration I stumbled upon a repair shop for bicycles. They had a big container for used tyres. It was then that I decided to take some tyres with me and to use them as raw material for jewellery. Later I collected some fresh supplies of used tyres every morning on the way to our workshop. They turned out to be a really inspiring material. Many years later I still use them for new pieces and their potential still surprises me.Were recycling and sustainability an important consideration to you in the development of this body of work? I had the idea that after the bicycle tyre has fulfilled its function, it has still another life that can be glamorous and decorative. I combine the rubber with precious metals, which I think is a very good match and both materials “support” each other.

The circle is a recurrent theme in many of your pieces – what attracts you to this shape? I never thought about that, maybe it is something out of my sub-consciousness.

You have said that you enjoy playing and that making can be akin to a game to you. How important is the idea of ‘play’ to you in the development of new work? How do you generate your ideas? I enjoy the process of developing new pieces. I can experiment, play and tell stories. I am pleased when other people discover in my pieces something that touches, provokes, inspires them and they want to own one of my pieces. It is really heart-warming. That’s the reward for all my work.

Nikolay Sardamov's exhibition Continuum opens at metalab this Thursday 6 May and continues until 27 May.

Contemporary Jewellery focus in the next Craft Australia newsletter

2010-04-27T00:20:00.000-07:00

Our friends at Craft Australia have just let us know that the May 2010 issue of CA enews will have a contemporary jewellery focus and roundup of the JMGA conference held in Perth 2010!

CA enews is a fabulous, free online news letter published by Craft Australia every month. You can read it at: http://www.craftaustralia.org.au/enews/ best of all, subscription to CA enews is free, you can subscribe at: http://www.craftaustralia.org.au/subscribe/

· Craft Australia is celebrating its 40 year anniversary in 2010 and as part of the celebration has set up a flickr page to showcase Australian studio craft and design. They are continually uploading images to this site and a number jewellery and object images has been uploaded with many more to come. Check it out at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/craftaustralia/

· The Craft Australia calendar promotes contemporary craft and design through exhibitions, workshops, opportunities, conferences and trade fairs. I have listed a number of contemporary jewellry and object exhibitions and opportunities in the online calendars, it is well worth a visit at: http://craftaustralia.org.au/calendars/about

Don't forget Cinnamon Lee's artist talk tomorrow evening!

Recent Workshops at metalab

2010-04-18T20:33:00.000-07:00

We have recently hosted two fabulous one-day workshops in conjunction with our exhibition program with artists Djurdjica Kesic and Cinnamon Lee.

Djurdjica's workshop in March looked at the potential for objects from the domestic interior to be incorporated into jewellery. Participants all brought different items loaded with personal significance and had a fun day deconstructing them to explore their potential as wearables. Here are some images:

Cinnamon's workshop introduced basic principles of battery operated lighting and its potential for incorporation into jewellery and objects. Participants made a series of experimental pieces using coloured LED lights with a focus on considering the on/off mechanism as an integral part of the design.

...read on for information about the next one day workshop in May with Bulgarian jeweller Nikolay Sardamov.

Continuum : solo exhibition by Nikolay Sardamov

2010-04-18T19:28:00.000-07:00

metalab is proud to introduce Bulgarian jeweller Nikolay Sardamov to Australian audiences. Sardamov is renown across Europe for his work using both precious metals and re-cycled materials including rubber bicycle inner tubes.
Nikolay's work is meticulously designed and made and characterised by poignant conceptual concerns. His collections vary from heart felt messages to social commentary - particularly the Bi-Re-Cycle series, a body of work finely crafted from silver and bicycle type inner tubes speaking of mobility, sustainability and smart societies.
This exhibition will feature work from the Secret Garden, Intersections, Bi-Re-Cycle and Soft Construction collections.Nikolay Sardamov trained as a jeweller and metalsmith in Sofia, Bulgaria graduating with a Master of Arts in jewellery and meatl from the Sofia Academy of Arts in 2005. he has exhibited extensively in Europe and the UK since 2000. Continuum is Nikolay's first solo exhibition in Australia.

Bi- re- cycle : Workshop with Nikolay Sardamov

2010-04-18T19:09:00.000-07:00

We are delighted that Bulgarian jeweller Nikolay Sardamov will be presenting a one-day workshop in conjunction with his upcoming solo exhibition at metalab Continuum. The workshop will focus on the use of rubber bicycle inner tubes as a material for making innovative jewellery. Nikolay has been using bicycle inner tubes to dramatic effect in his work for some time now and will be sharing his knowledge of the transformation of this material.
Participants will be provided with a range of different sized bicycle inner tubes that will be transformed under Nikolay's guidance into edgy, unique wearables.
Details:
Workshop date: Saturday 8 May
Time: 10am - 4pm
Cost: $95/$85 student concession
Lunch, basic hand tools and a selection of bicycle inner tubes will be provided.
Bookings: phone 02 8354 1398 or email: info@metalab.com.au
Participants will be provided with a selection of different sized rubber bicycle inner tubes, however they may also wish to bring their own, along with any other special tools and materials they would like to work with. Silver may be purchased from metalab on the day if required.
Stay tuned for more information about Nikolay's exhibition and an interview with him coming soon!

Artist talk with Cinnamon Lee

2010-04-13T00:38:00.003-07:00

Join us for an artist talk with Cinnamon Lee on Wednesday 28 April at 6pm followed by drinks. Metalab 10b Fitzroy Place Surry Hills

An interview with Cinnamon Lee

2010-04-12T23:00:00.000-07:00

Firstly, please can you tell us a little bit about your background. What led you to jewellery and then to lights?
I consider myself fairly lucky to have stumbled into the right place early on. I can't say that I was initially drawn to jewellery specifically, but I have always enjoyed investigating the details of the world on a minute scale. After I finished High School I became immediately attracted to what the Jewellery and Object Design Department at the Design Centre, Enmore had on offer. It was there that my interest in gold and silversmithing was confirmed and where the wonders of working with metal were revealed - I learned quickly that within a metal workshop anything is possible! So from early on I did not feel restricted to making only jewellery and was enthralled by the prospect of making all kinds of things. It was one of the final projects set by Robin Blau in 1996, which sparked my initial interest in lighting. Light then emerged as both a material and a subject, which I actively pursued for the duration of my undergraduate studies in Canberra at ANU, and lighting technology became a research focus for my postgraduate studies - illustrated by the body of work displayed in the Twilight exhibition. Please could you describe your practice?
My practice is primarily occupied with metal as a medium for the design and fabrication of jewellery and objects. I am particularly intrigued by the rapid pace of technological innovation and the impact that new technologies can have on the way we conceive, produce and interact with objects and how this can effect the way we interact with each other. Both facets of my practice therefore embrace the application of new technologies as a way of complementing traditional craft techniques, processes and approaches to design. The jewellery I make takes advantage of computer aided technology primarily on a design and manufacturing level and recent lighting work has incorporated computerised modes of operation to control the latest electronic light sources.Your practice spans jewellery and lighting design – is there a point where these aspects of your practice converge?
Although I don't see a point where the two sides of my practice converge to create, for example, wearable lighting, there is definitely a convergence in my design approach for both my jewellery and lighting work. Because of my jewellery background, the lighting I make is heavily influenced by the processes, materials and philosophies that accompany the conventions of gold and silversmithing. The jewellery I make aims to push boundaries in terms of manufacturing possibilities and the lighting seeks to explore the limits of current electronic technologies, yet ultimately the function of both kinds of objects is of an ornamental nature. For me the light object presents a way of employing my training and love of working with metal to produce objects that can transform the spaces around us, while at the same time ornamenting it, yet not being limited to the body.
Technology is an important aspect of both your jewellery and lighting design – can you tell us a little about some of the new technologies you have been working with recently?
Computerised technologies feature prominently in my work for both concept development as well as for construction and fabrication purposes. For example, my recent jewellery exploits the potential of 3D computer modelling, rapid prototyping and investment casting to create complex repetitious structures in metal that would be difficult to construct using only traditional methods. Recent artificial lighting innovation has also provided an array of new possibilities for lighting design and a number of the lamps in the Twilight exhibition aim to showcase some of these. For example, the wire bulb series of lamps incorporate the latest multi-chip LEDs and pre-programmed micro-chips to control aspects of their behaviour such as colour and intensity, and emerging organic LED technology (used in the Twilight Pendant Lamp pair), provides a small hint to the future of artificial lighting.
The hand is also an important factor – can you explain how the handmade interacts with technology in your practice?
Despite the use of industrial processes, there is no part of my work that has not been interfered with by my hands in some way - the lights in Twilight have been finished with the same level of scrutiny as any piece of jewellery that I make. Although I openly embrace the application of new manufacturing technologies in my work, I remained stoically addicted to good old fashioned bench work and I can't imagine ever giving that away. In fact, despite the 'computer-aided' look that much of my work may suggest, each piece has generally undergone a relatively laborious series of operations, particularly in terms of finishing. It is very rare for me to be able to use industrially made parts straight off the machine. The hand therefore plays an indispensable role in my practice and the sensitivity for details such as surface quality, is not something that is easily replaced. I quite enjoy the blurred line between what has been made by machine and what has been made by hand in my work and the fact that appearances can so often be deceiving.

Interactivity is a key feature of the work in Twilight - has this been an ongoing fascination?
I find the interactions that occur between people and objects infinitely fascinating and this has always provided inspiration for my work. In my wearable work I have explored this through the intimate nature of the worn jewel, creating rings that feature hidden details on interior surfaces, encouraging a sense of secret interaction between object and owner. I began research into alternative switching modes for lamps during my Honours year at uni in an attempt to enliven the interactions between usually static objects and their users and encourage more expressive operational interactions for lamp design, such as thermostatic devices and touch sensors. More recently I have employed the use of proximity sensors for touch-less switching and micro-controllers for more complex responsive interactivity. For me the greatest potential for digitally enhanced interactive works is in the ability to inspire a sense of unexpected delight... something which often tends to be overshadowed by frustration these days where computers are concerned.

What are your main sources of inspiration?
The little things - a perfectly formed cumulus nimbus on a sunny day, or a translucent cube of yuzu flavoured jelly that melts and explodes in your mouth at the same time! (...you had to be there!)
The electric lightbulb features as a recurrent motif in Twilight – what is its significance within this body of work?
The controversy over the fate of the incandescent globe has provided considerable inspiration for this exhibition of lighting. Despite its emergence as a superseded technology this century, it is an undeniably important technology in the history of artificial light and the familiar pear-shaped bulb form has become a universally iconic everyday object. On the eve of its disappearance, this exhibition intends to perform as a sort of homage to our fondness for the light bulb at a transitional time in the history of artificial light and lighting technology. It questions what will become of this iconic object as it is replaced by new light. The use of the bulb in these works therefore, intends to provoke consideration of the symbolic significance of a technology undergoing transformation, hence the title of the show...

What next???
More of everything!! Having just moved back to Sydney from Canberra I have to do a little re-adjusting, but it seems there's already a list of things to do that are quickly accumulating...just when I thought I might actually get a break....

Twilight - an exhibition of new work by Cinnamon Lee

2010-04-05T23:39:00.000-07:00

We are very excited that Cinnamon Lee's highly anticipated solo exhibition Twilight is opening this Thursday 8 April!
Cinnamon is busy today installing the 12 extraordinary lighting installations that comprise the exhibition and that have completely transformed metalab into a magical twilight world! Alongside her lighting Cinnamon will also be showing a collection of amazing new ring designs. This is an exhibition not to be missed! Stay tuned for an interview with Cinnamon and don't forget that she will be running a very special one-day workshop at metalab on Saturday 17 April (see previous post).
The exhibition runs until 29 April.

Get Making! Jewellery Classes at metalab

2010-03-22T20:50:00.001-07:00

We have just released the class timetable for the next few months and are pleased to announce the addition of two new classes!

BEGINNERS FOUNDATION CLASSES

Learn the art of jewellery making during these classes running on Monday and Saturday mornings. The classes provide a comprehensive overview of foundation techniques including sawing, filing, soldering, emerying and polishing whilst enabling participants to produce silver jewellery of their own design.

Saturday Beginners Class

Cost: $195 Duration: 9am - 12.30pm over two consecutive Saturdays

Supplied: All tools and use of workshop equipment, tea and biscuits.

Extras: $1.50 per gram of silver (most projects use $15 worth of material)

Class size: 6

Saturday Class Dates:

3 & 10 April 2010

24 April & 1 May 2010

15 & 22 May 2010

5 & 12 June 2010

19 & 26 June 2010

Monday Beginners Class NEW!

Cost: $260 Duration: 10.30am - 2pm over four consecutive Mondays

Supplied: All tools and use of workshop equipment, tea and biscuits.

Extras: $1.50 per gram of silver (most projects use $15 worth of material)

Class size: 6

Monday Beginners Class Dates:

3 - 24 May 2010

31 May - 28 June 2010

26 July - 16 August 2010

LOST WAX CASTING CLASSES NEW!

This class will focus on using the lost wax casting technique to design and make unique jewellery, introducing the basic principles of working with wax. Participants will design and make a ring which will be cast in silver, this will be followed by a second project - a pendant or brooch.

Level: Beginner - Intermediate

Cost: $220 Duration: 2pm - 5pm over three consecutive Saturdays

Supplied: Use of tools and workshop equipment, tea and biscuits

Extras: Casting is outsourced and will incur additional costs.

Class size: 6

Lost Wax Casting Class Dates:

15 - 29 May 2010

12 - 26 June 2010

10 - 24 July 2010

INTERMEDIATE CLASSES

Extend the skills learned in the Beginners Class and create your own contemporary wearables using silver and a range of other materials. Projects include making a ring/s, pendant or earrings. Techniques learned may include roller printing onto metal, riveting and sweat soldering.

Level: Intermediate

Cost: $430 per term Duration: 6pm - 9pm over 8 consecutive Tuesday evenings

Supplied: Use of tools and workshop equipment, tea and biscuits

Extras: Silver sheet and wire is available for purchase however students are encouraged to source their own materials with guidance from tutor.

Class size: 6

Intermediate Class Dates:

6 April - 23 May 2010

8 June - 27 July 2010

10 August - 28 September 2010

For more information or to make a booking email: info@metalab.com.au or call: 8354 1398