Now open at the Home of the Arts (HOTA) on the Gold Coast, artisan’s UNLEASHED is a biennial exhibition showcasing the works of Queensland makers. This year’s practitioners work across jewellery, ceramics, furniture, lighting and object design.

The art of making is something we can all relate to (whether we’re any good at it is a different story). For these 12 practitioners, being featured in this year’s UNLEASHED+ is no mean feat. Running for over two decades, UNLEASHED has provided a launchpad for Queensland’s most exciting makers, connecting independent artists with the architecture and design industry, as well as collectors and curators. It provides an opportunity for artists to build recognition and increase their network. This year’s expanded program also makes its debut at HOTA, enabling the works to reach a wider audience than ever before.

This year’s artists are Ben Adams, Julia Bramich, Céline Caron, Gabi Harris, Petalia Humphreys, Jacqueline Kaytar, Michelle Le Plastrier, William MacLean, Jude Muduioa, Rachel North, Rhiannon Sothern and Tom Summers. Their works range from wearable pieces to architecturally scaled sculptural objects – blurring the boundaries between art and design, form and function. Working from home studios and kitchen benches through to shared studio spaces, the cohort showcases the breadth of creative practice happening across the state.

“For me, UNLEASHED+ marks the moment when something I’ve been developing privately in my studio becomes something shared with the public. As a self-taught ceramic artist, it feels like a real reward for building my craft alone, without formal training. It matters even more because ceramics is a true passion,” says Céline Caron.

“So many artists I admire have been part of UNLEASHED. Being selected feels like recognition of where my practice is now, while encouraging me to keep pursuing my
biggest goals,” says Tom Summers.

Alongside the UNLEASHED+ exhibition, a companion showcase titled Personal Languages will showcase new works by five inaugural artisan-in-residence alumni: Regi Cherini, Erin Conron, Norton Fredericks, Rick Hayward and Natalie Ward. Collectively, they embody the next generation of Australian makers redefining contemporary making through innovation, bold material exploration and sustainability.

“Exhibiting in UNLEASHED+ at HOTA through Personal Languages is absolutely a career highlight. Artisan’s residency gave me dedicated time and space to create without a prescribed outcome. It accelerated my practice in ways that wouldn’t otherwise have been possible,” says Natalie Ward.

Together, the two exhibitions show the evolution of artistic careers, from emergence to maturity. As complementary collections, they create an optimistic landscape for the future of craft and design in a single destination.

“Queensland produces some of Australia’s most exciting contemporary makers, and talent is  just part of the equation,” says Carmel Haugh, CEO at artisan. “Artists need visibility, opportunity and ambitious platforms that  connect them with collectors, curators and new audiences. UNLEASHED has always been  about recognising exceptional practice early and accelerating creative careers. Now, presenting UNLEASHED+ with HOTA gives these makers the profile their work deserves while  demonstrating the strength and confidence of contemporary craft and design in Queensland.”

“Hosting UNLEASHED+ at HOTA is a celebration of Queensland’s extraordinary creative talent and the vital role our artists and makers play in shaping our cultural identity,” says David Don, HOTA Gallery general manager. “We’re proud to partner with Artisan to present an exhibition that champions innovation, craftsmanship and contemporary design. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to supporting creatives, creating meaningful opportunities for audiences to connect with their work, and ensuring Queensland’s vibrant creative sector continues to thrive.” 

UNLEASHED+ is on at HOTA until 8 November.

Top image: Servo Swag (on paisley), 2024, Regi Cherini. Embroidery floss on cotton. 34.5 x 34.5cm (framed). Photo: Joe Ruckli.