A quarterly snapshot of the practice, sharing recent work, exhibitions and collaborations. The first half of the year has been one of the busiest and most rewarding in the studio’s history, from national commissions and exhibitions through to new collections and partnerships. Here are three projects that have shaped the past six months.
What We Keep
Earlier this year, Tom Skeehan was named the inaugural recipient of the Australian Design Commission, a new initiative by Powerhouse and David Jones supporting the future of Australian design.
What We Keep explores the objects, memories and rituals that shape our lives at home. Developed over nine months in collaboration with local makers, craftspeople and creative partners, the project brings together timber, recycled glass and cast aluminium in a contemporary cabinet that celebrates the stories we choose to preserve.
The work is currently on display at David Jones Elizabeth Street, Sydney.
100 Chairs
In May, Friends & Associates presented 100 Chairs as part of Melbourne Design Week.
Conceived and curated by Friends & Associates, the exhibition brought together one hundred Australian designers, studios and makers, each contributing a single Australian-made chair. More than an exhibition, 100 Chairs celebrated the depth of Australia’s design community while creating a platform for designers to contribute to the broader cultural conversation around contemporary Australian furniture.
Thank you to every designer, partner and supporter who helped bring the exhibition to life.
ELEMENTS by Blaklash
Following its preview at the National Gallery of Australia as part of After the Rain, preparations are underway for the official launch of ELEMENTS with Blaklash.
Developed in close collaboration with the Blaklash team, the collection explores furniture through the lens of Country, culture and storytelling. We’re looking forward to sharing the complete collection in the coming months.
As the second half of the year unfolds, the studio continues to develop new collaborations spanning furniture, objects and cultural commissions. We look forward to sharing more soon.
