Layers of Blak at KHT

Bringing beauty to an ugly and brutal history, 11 Victorian First Nations Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and designers, have wrestled with colonial history to present their stories, layered with meaning – of healing, resilience, collaboration and empowerment. This is powerful storytelling through exquisite contemporary jewellery.

Layers of Blak is the exhibition outcome from the Blak Design program. Now in its second year, it is presented by the KHT to foster First Nations cultural innovation within the Victorian design sector and provide a platform for nurturing sustainable, First Nations design practices.

Participating First Nations artists: Thelma Austin (Gunditjmara), Mandi Barton (Yorta Yorta/Barapa Barapa/Wemba Wemba), Lorraine Brigdale (Yorta Yorta), Nikki Brown (Bidjara), Deanne Gilson (Wadawurrung), Tammy Gilson (Wadawurrung), Elijah Money (Wiradjuri), Yasmin Silveira (Palawa), Sammy Trist (Taungurung), Dominic White (Palawa) and Tracy Wise (Barkindji Ngiyampaa Maligundidj).

Each of the participants have undertaken intensive hands-on workshops; learning and refining their jewellery making skills at RMIT jewellery studios. They have been mentored by acclaimed jewellers Blanche Tilden and Laura Deakin with technical assistance by Lindy McSwan. They have also participated in professional development workshops with creative industry leaders in business, design and marketing.

Blak Design is presented by The Koorie Heritage Trust with the generous support of programming partners Creative Victoria, City of Melbourne, Australian Government Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support, Australia Council for the Arts, ANZ.

Presented in partnership with The Ian Potter Foundation, RMIT University, National Gallery of Victoria, Fed Square.

Left image: Mandi Barton (Yorta Yorta, Barappa Barappa, Wemba Wemba), Danin (Float) Necklace 2 2022, Photograph: Fred Kroh
Middle image: Elijah Money (Wiradjuri), Namesake 2022, Photograph: Fred Kroh
Right image: Nikki Browne (Bidjara), STOP KILLING COUNTRY 2022, Photograph: Fred Kroh