A vibrant beginning to 2026 with Contempora 1
Phillip Island Contemporary Exhibition Space (PICES) is delighted to welcome the New Year with the opening of Contempora 1.
Phillip Island Contemporary Exhibition Space (PICES) is delighted to welcome the New Year with the opening of Contempora 1.
Following the Small Works Exhibition, it is the first in a dynamic pair of contemporary exhibitions featuring larger works that signal an inspiring start to 2026.
Running until January 15, Contempora 1 brings together a diverse group of artists whose practices reflect a broad range of perspectives, materials and approaches to contemporary art making.
Featuring Helen Broad, Julie Lundgren Coulter, Carolyne Jane, Ann Parry, Melinda Holt (painting), Mandy Gunn (printmaking), Gay Mosby (pottery), Helen Phillip (sculpture) and Kylie Watson (printmaking), the exhibition showcases works that are both visually engaging and conceptually rich.
Together, these artists present a compelling cross-section of contemporary practice, from expressive and intuitive painting to refined printmaking, sculptural form and ceramic exploration.
The works on display invite audiences to slow down, observe closely and engage with the varied ways artists interpret place, memory, materiality and lived experience.
Whether through bold mark-making, subtle tonal shifts, tactile surfaces or three-dimensional form, Contempora 1 celebrates the vitality and depth of artistic practice within the Bass Coast region and beyond.
Adding an exciting new dimension to the exhibition program, PICES is proud to introduce its Artist Insights forums.
These special forums provide audiences with a unique opportunity to hear directly from artists about the concepts, thinking, techniques and materials that underpin their work.
Questions from the audience are encouraged, fostering an open and engaging dialogue between artists and the public.
The inaugural Artist Insights Forum on January 4 featuring Melinda Holt and Carolyne Jane (painting) and Helen Phillip (sculpture), was moderated by Adrian Montana, an arts maker, educator and PICES committee member.
Adrian brings a thoughtful and informed approach to the conversation, guiding discussion while allowing each artist's voice and practice to shine.
With Contempora 1, PICES proudly sets the tone for a year of creativity, connection and conversation. Visitors are warmly invited to experience the exhibition, meet the artists, and begin 2026 immersed in contemporary art.
Contempora 1. January 4-15. Berninneit Art Gallery, 91-97 Thompson Avenue, Cowes.
www.pices.com.au/
/ Sponsored article /
