Visual Arts
Melissa Robertson
ARTIST'S STATEMENT
"When fragile forms are covered they inherit protection, a second layer of skin or transparent coat. They become nurtured inside tightly bound packages that are soft and soothing, rigid and uneven. The organic objects become contained in subtle ways to enhance the natural beauty of their form. Traditional Japanese wrapping and packaging shows the preservations of fragile contents as a symbol of nature in our daily lives. This was a way of communication in Japanese culture between people and nature, deeply and permanently associated with mutual affection."
Melissa Robertson, 2005
BIO
Melissa Robertson is a 21 year old emerging artist and recent graduate from the University of South Australia, having just completed a Bachelor of Visual Arts (Jewellery and Metal) at the South Australian School of Art, University of SA. This particular body of work included in the Fifth Floor exhibition program was highly recognized in March 2005 when Melissa was honored to be one of 16 Australian artists chosen to participate in Object Gallery's annual national new design 2005 Graduate Exhibition in Sydney.
Currently Melissa is a volunteer at Jam Factory Contemporary Craft and Design in Adelaide, which involves supervising the gallery, attending training sessions/artist talks and various administration duties. Through this experience she is able to observe the industry and work towards becoming a professional visual arts practitioner in the jewellery field. Although Melissa thoroughly enjoys designing and manufacturing jewellery from home, for various shops and galleries in Adelaide as well as personal clients, she is always seeking challenges and exciting opportunities within the jewellery industry that could largely benefit her skills and practice. At present Melissa's jewellery is also on show at the Pepper Street Arts Centre, Magill and at Urban Cow in Frome Street, Adelaide.
Melissa has exhibited as part of Carclew's Fifth Floor project.
