Wagga Wagga Art Gallery launches Glass Chrysalis II this Saturday 27 September - a triennial exhibition celebrating exceptional promise in the work of early career Australian glass artists.
Curated in collaboration with JamFactory Adelaide and Canberra Glassworks, Glass Chrysalis II showcases six early-career artists whose practices reflect a deep commitment to material, form, and process.
Exhibiting artists Jordan Benson, Madeline Cardone, Calum Donaldson, Hamish Donaldson, Carman Skeehan, and Isobel Waters present work that explores the possibilities of glass through technical precision and conceptual experimentation.
Wagga Wagga Art Gallery Director Dr Lee-Anne Hall said the artwork selection involved a broad canvassing of recent graduates of art school and studio glass residency programs.
"The six early career artists were chosen for their stand-out commitment to glass art and their exceptional abilities and visions," Dr Hall said.
"Although their practices are influenced by the history of the studio glass movement, they push the boundaries of contemporary techniques and influences."
Saturday will be a day-long celebration of glass art featuring artist talks from 11am; join National Art Glass Collection curator, Michael Scarrone for the opportunity to hear from the six exhibiting artists as they discuss their practices, work and careers.
This will be followed at 2pm by a panel discussion – On Fire: Next Steps for the Next Generation, featuring Madeline Cardone, Dr Denis O'Connor, Kirstie Rea, Calum Donaldson, Aimee Frodsham and will be facilitated by Dr Lee-Anne Hall.
Official launch of Glass Chrysalis II from 3pm includes with guest speaker Kirstie Rea, followed by a performance of glorious Ukrainian bandura music by Larissa Kovalchuk.
"We are very excited to have Larissa join us at the launch event to give us a special performance," Dr Lee-Anne Hall said
"Originally from Ukraine, Larissa has performed throughout Europe and Australia, and she now teaches bandura at the Riverina Conservatorium of Music.
