The Crafted Container

A collaboration between Jessica Barter and Stephen Brookbanks, The Crafted Container addresses “the home as an instrument of self-articulation and the idea that the home itself is inscribed and impressed with traces and stories of the occupants.” addresses

The fragile ladders, bridges and platforms in Stephen Brookbanks’ scaffold-like constructions encase ordinary objects within imaginary landscapes. These unusual structures serve to imbue a sense of personal resonance upon these familiar possessions. Also within the domestic realm, Jessica Barter’s slip cast ceramics explore an important part of every home, the medicine cabinet. Inspired by architectural developed surface drawings, Barter’s work deconstructs this space.

A central component of this exhibition is the large ‘Wunderkammer’ inspired display case. Referencing “childhood fascinations with collections displayed in cabinets out of reach,” the furniture for this exhibition, constructed by Brookbanks, encapsulates the narrative of both makers. Through the perspective of architecture, The Crafted Container offers a new lens through which to view objects residing within the home.

– Matt Blomeley