In alignment with Melbourne Design Week’s overarching theme, “Design the world that you want,” MATTERS 2024 stands as a convergence of imagination, collaboration, and process. This year’s exhibition features an array of renowned and emerging Australian designers and artists. The classical architecture of Villa Alba Museum provides a backdrop for this juxtaposition of contemporary design.
Melbourne Design Week 2024 is poised to revive one of its dynamic platforms, emphasising thoughtful and intentional design under the name MATTERS. Following the success of its 2023 debut, MATTERS will convert the historic Villa Alba Museum into the epicentre of contemporary design from today until the 27th of May. This year’s theme, “What Matters to You?” is built upon three core pillars: process, community and longevity, serving as a conduit for contemporary concerns and supporting designers and artists as they delve deeper into their creative processes.
Related: Melbourne Design Week 2024 – your guide to the highlights
Upon entering the grand hall, visitors will be greeted by Tom Fereday’s ‘Mazer’ exhibit. The acclaimed Australian industrial designer will debut this collection of subtle organic forms that accentuate permanence and intention. Nearby, Freeman Gallery will make its Melbourne Design Week debut, showcasing international designers from their innovative Sydney gallery.
As guests traverse through the museum, a few of the noteworthy displays include: Zella Casey Brown’s printmaking will be displayed alongside objects created by the collaborative duo Ben McCarthy and Marcel Sigel. This exhibition marks McCarthy’s return after several years of practising and exhibiting abroad. The (SOME THINGS) group exhibit is located in Villa Alba’s vestibule and will feature material samples, interpreted tools and experimental forms, continuing the narrative begun by the 2023 (NO THINGS) showcase. Object Density’s ‘Proportions of Space’ installation will exhibit the reuse of discarded materials, inspired by their experiences in the Netherlands.
MATTERS will culminate with ‘Turning (Camphor),’ a new furniture collection by designer Marlo Lyda. This collection highlights the hidden beauty and sustainability of Camphor timber, challenging its outdated reputation and redefining its potential for fine furniture.
MATTERS
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Photography
Tess Kelly, Sean Fennessey
Next up: Useful Objects opens with ‘Desire x Design’ at Melbourne Design Week