GAFFA 2: Artist/Jewellery Designer in focus

 Moving on up!
The second level of the GAFFA (see previous post) has more of a traditional gallery set up. The three main galleries in addition to the "Keeper Gallery" house an array of interesting works in a variety of media by emerging Australian artists from around the country. Gallery one currently showing the exhibition;  five eight five: volume two, shows the work of 16 artists in media ranging from watercolour, jewellery, object design to photography.

Unfortunately many of these artists have very little web presence (I actually asked one artist at the exhibition is she had a website and was greeted with a quite decisive "no") but it just so happens that this is not the case for the work that really did catch my eye ... about which I'll write about further over the next few posts. (Just goes to show that the web is a first point of reference these days and if you want to get your work out there, work on your website!)

On the night of the exhibition, although there was a lot of good quality work fighting for my attention, Momoko Hatano's jewellery really caught my eye. Educated at COFA Sydney, her blog tells us that she initially majored in drawing/painting until she left uni and started work for a jewellery company. Her pieces for the "equus" range are quite graphic and strong but with whimsical and delicate details, horses bowing their heads to each other, galloping in pairs or nuzzling one another are worked into organically shaped silver bracelets and bold, oval shaped rings.

(own photo)

Image from Moose Designs (http://www.shopmoose.com.au/pieces/equestrian-romance-ring)

Similar in concept is her line of bird rings. Made from Sterling silver, they come alone or in pairs. Are you a solo flyer? Or one of those happy birds that are lucky enough to swoop and circle with a partner? Either way, the thought of a silver bird alighting on my hand brings a content smile to my face.  

image from: http://www.shopmoose.com.au/artists/momoko-hatano

Image from momokohatano.blogspot.com

If you were the type of girl who always wanted a pony or a dove, are an animal lover, free-spirit or lover of miniatures and small whimsical details, this jewellery may appeal to you. It has personality but is also  inobtrusive and romantic,  easy enough to wear everyday.

Her Jewellery is available online at Shopmoose and you can check out her blog: http://www.momokohatano.blogspot.com/ Have fun!