Artists explore perceptions of reproduction in Crows Nest Gallery exhibition

Drawing on themes of materiality, process, repetition, biology and personal narratives, a collection of artists explores differing perspectives of reproduction in their exhibition, Contemplations of Reproduction, which is on display at the Crows Nest Gallery from February 12 to March 9, 2025.

The artists, Vivien Bedwell, Renee Kire, Clare Poppi, Hannaneh Qiumarsi, Katie Stormonth and Rebekah Walkarden, have created artworks in a variety of mediums from contemporary wearable pieces to small sculptural objects.

Through definition, interrogation and critique, the exhibition highlights the importance of technical reproduction within an artist's practice - the repetition of skills and techniques to acquire mastery and expertise, or repeated use of surface lines, textures, shapes and form.

Some works also navigate social constructs of reproduction such as fertility, childbirth and parenting, alongside natural and biological cycles.

In each work the viewer is invited to contemplate their own interpretation of reproduction and reflect on personal experiences.

Vivien Bedwell is a jewellery artist who explores body-object-space relationships. This stems from reflecting on limitations and extensions of the senses. For Contemplations of Reproduction, the delicate process of fertility is explored, particularly through avenues that assist the reproductive system to initiate fertilisation.

Renee Kire is a multi-disciplinary artist who challenges traditional minimalist sculpture. In Contemplations of Reproduction, she explores how repeating shapes can generate a variety of forms, highlighting the complex and evolving nature of repetitive patterns.

Clare Poppi is an artist who predominantly uses metal to make work with a connection to the body. In Contemplations of Reproduction, Clare explores fertility, reproduction and early motherhood, drawing on personal narratives and common experience.

Hannaneh Qiumarsi is an Iranian artist based in Australia who explores topics that are considered taboo or controversial. In Contemplations of Reproduction, she reveals unusual behaviours in nature, like the dual reproductive roles of banana slugs, challenging our perceptions of life and creation.

Katie Stormonth aims to expand the boundaries of wearable body adornment through experimentation of materials and forms. She constructs alluring arrangements of repetitious forms and painted surfaces, highlighting the patterns of bold and decorative chased line work.

Rebekah Walkarden is a multidisciplinary artist living and working in Ipswich (Tulmur), Queensland. In The year I didn’t become a tree, Rebekah revisits a personal narrative of fertility and loss, using the contrast of different points in her journey to motherhood to tell a story of hope to her past self.

The exhibition’s Meet the Artists event will be held from 11am to 1pm on Sunday, February 16.

For more information, please see: Exhibition I Contemplations of Reproduction

Enquiries about the exhibition can be directed to Crows Nest Gallery on (07) 4698 1687 or [email protected].

Crows Nest Gallery, at the corner of the New England Highway and William Street is open from 10.30am to 3.30pm Wednesday to Sunday. It is closed on Monday, Tuesday and public holidays.

Images:

1. Katie STORMONTH / Reproduction 2024 / anodised aluminium, sterling silver, stainless steel, timber, paint / 10 x10 x 4cm each / Photographer: Visuall photography / © Katie Stormonth (Top)

2. Clare POPPI / Stimulation plan 2024 (detail) / sterling silver, 9ct gold, unused medication and packaging / 40 x 45 x 2cm / Photographer: Visuall photography / © Clare Poppi