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Exhibition explores beads in contemporary art

By Latrobe City Council - 4th October 2005 - Back to News

Currently on show at Latrobe Regional Gallery is a bedazzling exhibition, ‘unstrung: the bead in contemporary art’ which showcases the work of some of Australia’s finest contemporary artists including Fiona Hall, Nell and ex Latrobe Valley resident Louiseann Zahra.

Gallery Director, Louise Tegart said that the exhibition explored the unconventional uses of beads.

"Beads have been used throughout the ages and in virtually every culture, not simply as personal adornment but to express social circumstances, political occurrences and religious beliefs. They have also been used as a form of currency, as symbolic embodiments of curative powers, in trade, as systems of measurement and as symbols of societal power.

"They have also served as a form of shared communication that signalled identity, group origin and marital status. In many societies beads have also served as an important part of wealth and exchange," Ms Tegart explained.

"Despite their widespread use in cultures throughout the world, beads have not been traditionally considered a medium of fine art. Today however, beads are no longer designed only for jewellery, adornment or communication. They are used to interpret the elements of art through their characteristics of decoration, symbolism and the ability to incorporate complex ideas," Ms Tegart said.

Ms Tegart added that as a medium traditionally associated with the 'feminine' practice of craft, beads now had critical significance for many contemporary artists, both male and female.

"The recent resurgence in the use of beads by contemporary artists speaks to the versatility and rich history of the medium. While some of the examples in this exhibition draw from, or enlarge upon, the bead's historical context, others use traditional forms as a point of departure to address narrative, personal and symbolic concerns. Whether creating artworks that push the definition of beads or that use beads with another medium, the artists represented demonstrate that beads are a versatile medium capable of conveying powerful and provocative ideas," Ms Tegart explained.

"This exhibition challenges conventional notions of beads and reveals a wealth of creative possibilities contained within this seemingly simple medium. Unique concepts and ideas join innovative techniques and unusual materials to form an engrossing sample of contemporary art utilising beads. The objects offered in this exhibition reveal artists seeking to stimulate thought and dialogue, while intending to inspire and challenge the viewer," Ms Tegart concluded.

The exhibition continues until 30 October.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: support@gippsland.com