Please note that this is an on-going project.
Project Description
A pilot program for developing original responsibly sourced exhibition merchandise. The idea being that Jewellery & Small Objects students pitch an idea for a limited edition pendant/pin that responds to a Griffith University Art Museum exhibition or GUAM idea.
The selected student develops the pin/pendant in the Jewellery & Small Objects with staff support and J&SO sterling silver.
The limited edition is promoted through all of our networks.
Sales happen through the GUAM Shop. For sold works J&SO gets the agreed material costs and GUAM and student share the rest.
At the end any unsold work is returned to J&SO and we reuse the silver inhouse for the next range. No money goes to GUAM or student for unsold works, and we ensure the works cease to exist. GUAM is not left with any dated merchandise to deal with.
Project Personnel and Beneficiaries
Bachelor of Contemporary Indigenous Art student Rachel Bywaters is a proud descendant of the peoples of the Gamilaroi nation on her father’s side and has European bloodlines on her mother’s side. Rachel was selected to make the first pendants in the series.
Griffith University Art Museum gets to stock quality limited edition pendants in their book store, with no outlay and minimal environmental impact. The pendants were made less than 100m away from the museum and any unsold ones will be returned for reuse of the metal.
Outcomes to Date
There were two pendants developed in the pilot series. Each in an addition of 5. With the experience of the pilot it is planned to continue the program in 2025.
We see this as an idea that could be extended to other areas of the university or the local community, but in the immediate future working with the Museum is our primary priority.
Project Significance
Bachelor of Contemporary Indigenous Art student Rachel Bywater was mentored to develop her first range of Museum Merchandise. The pendants developed share Gamilaraay language and a message of connection to nature and land.
The materials used are precious and long lasting while also 100% recyclable. The pendants were made less than 100m away from the museum and any that don’t sell will be returned to be melted down and reused in the next series. This is a very low impact way for quality merchandise to be made with a local positive impact from and educational, cultural and economic perspective.
This contributes to our creative community at South Bank campus and builds on our connections for benefit of all.