Nail Heads

Abstract

Background: Heads, Nail Head Ring, Nail Head bracelet and Nail Head necklace, were selected for inclusion in the exhibition USE curated by QCA graduate Liam Bryan-Brown for the Jewellers and Metalsmiths Group Qld. Liam was assisted by leading art jeweller Barbara Heath and Claire Sourgnes CEO of Artisan to select the exhibitors. The exhibition was toured by Museums and Galleries Qld and funded by Arts Queensland and Visions Australia. The exhibition toured to 10 intra and interstate galleries and museums between 2019 and 2021. ‘USE explores the conceptual breadth and layers of meaning that operate within this premise for jewellery practitioners and metalsmiths. It is the use of tools that defines the field of creative practice that this exhibition celebrates.’

Research Contribution: Elizabeth Shaw’s works challenged both value and use – a collection of found discarded nails were repurposed with silver heads to make into wearable jewellery. This continues Shaw’s research into materials value and use and what it reflects about society. It is this research that has seen Shaw’s works referenced and recognised.

Research significance: The Nail Heads toured in USE to 10 galleries and museums. Each venue hosted associated public events ensuring high engagement and visitation rates. The tour lost two venues due to Covid, but managed to expand its audience further through online artists talks and discussions. Elizabeth Shaw was one of 4 exhibitors featured in the educational video that accompanied the exhibition and was asked to speak at several of the exhibition venues, both in person and via zoom sessions. While Shaw exhibits regularly overseas this exhibition was significant for the length and scope of its Australian tour. The lasting record of the exhibition is the print catalogue and the digital videos and images. https://magsq.com.au/touring-exhibitions/past-exhibitions/use/