Images by Ben-Tovim Design.

The Melbourne Fringe Festival returns in 2015 for its 30th year, with registrations now open for the much-loved Fringe Furniture Exhibition. The exhibition will be held at the Abbotsford Convent exploring the theme Between the Lines. Registration is open to Australian designers at any stage in their careers, and is a great opportunity for emerging local talent to explore meaning and messages in design.

Artists are encouraged to explore the ways that design can evoke responses through the use of texture and context. This exhibition is an excellent platform for emerging talent, supporting local design excellence. A panel of industry experts provide entrants with feedback, offering valuable insight and advice on their projects.

Designers that have been showcased in the past have achieved recognition following their participation. As an example, industrial designer Jonathan Ben-Tovim of Ben-Tovim Design has won accolades at the Fringe Furniture showcase for his Rough Diamond Pendant (2012 – Best Lighting Design Award) and Up Down Lights (2014 – Best Lighting Design Award). Both of these pieces have seen great success following their exhibitions and have been featured in a range of local design publications.

The annual showcase has become a noteworthy fixture in Melbourne’s design calendar, exploring innovation, creative thinking, environmental impact and living design. The Fringe Furniture exhibition will open on 16 September and will run until 4 October 2015 at Abbotsford Convent’s Sacred Heart Chapel.

Registrations for Fringe Furniture 2015: Between the Lines are now open, closing on Friday 26 June. To register head to fringefurniture.melbournefringe.com.au/registration/