MADE/ARRANGED

The first snow
just enough to bend
daffodil leaves
– Matsuo Bashō (1644 – 1694)

This winter we are excited to present a brand new multi-sensory mixed media group show – MADE / ARRANGED. Featuring abstract landscapes by Heidi Melamed, paintings by Midori Furze, sculptures by Luke Mansini and ceramics by Louisa Hart.

At the heart of the Minimalist aesthetic is the reduction of form to its pure, simplified state. Through the selective process of removing all unnecessary elements, the focus is concentrated on the innate characteristics of the object itself. These values underpin Louisa Hart’s ceramics that seek to enhance the material qualities of the work by celebrating organic shapes and the fluidity of form. 

This simplicity facilitates an unhindered interaction between the object and its surroundings. Minimalism has greatly drawn upon elements of the Zen aesthetic and the values of simplicity, tranquility and open space are recognised in the cultivation of Ikebana. Midori Furze’s paintings will draw upon central design elements of ikebana arrangement, such as asymmetry, fluid form and graceful lines.

IKEBANA

Ikebana as an art form is a way of unifying elements of our surroundings, celebrating an interaction between the outside and inside world whilst making us consider the way we choose to experience our surroundings. Luke Mansini’s sculptural vessels explore the concept of ‘the void’ and were inspired by the aesthetic of natural forms. They exist as a means of infiltrating our interior spaces with traces of the natural world. The way we experience and perceive our surroundings is addressed in the work of Heidi Melamed .

The simplified, uncomplicated beauty that finds form in Ikebana is designed to prompt reflection on the transitory, ephemeral qualities of the natural world. MADE / ARRANGED will encourage us to think about beginnings and endings, moments which celebrate uncertainty. This sentiment is captured in the haiku by poet and great master Matsuo Bashō.

Ikebana florist Setsuko Yanagisawa from Yuga Flora will respond to the artists works with Ikebana arrangements.

Ikebana Workshops with Setsuko Yanagisawa

The gallery will also host two Ikebana workshops where we invite you to create your own Ikebana arrangement under the guidance of Setsuko Yanagisawa.

Setsuko will demonstrate the art of Ikebana creation and participants will spend the duration of the workshop enjoying the relaxing and contemplative process of creating their own arrangements, all within the Zen setting of the gallery.

Setsuko’s work is a fusion of traditional Japanese floral art and the vibrant colours of the Australian landscape. Her creations are a synthesis of East and West, Man and Nature, they have graced events ranging from the Art Gallery of NSW, Akira Isogawa, Wolverine, Qantas Chairman and first class lounges.

At the end of the workshop, participants will take home their own Ikebana arrangement in a unique handmade vessel by either Luke Mansini or Louisa Hart.

Sunday 10th July or Sunday 17th July 2016, from 10.30am – 12.30pm.

Limited tickets available through Eventbrite.

Purchase Tickets here for Sunday 10th July or Sunday 17th July.

OPENING NIGHT

Thursday 30th June 6pm – 8pm

We would be delighted for you to join us at the Opening reception of MADE / ARRANGED and Meet the artists.

CATALOGUE

Click to view Catalogue (PDF 775kb)