Skein collaborated with the Art Gallery of South Australia on the historic Elder Wing transformation with a new hang of Australian art. The exciting project utilised a fresh methodology for seeing and experiencing Australian art, one that explores the flexibility and fluidity of belonging. The renewed display was curated with a focus on major moments in our history and highlights the national, regional and local nuances of Aboriginal art, colonial art, Australian Impressionism and Modernism.
For the updated re-hang, Skein was engaged to design a suite of consistent display stands, plinths, and pedestals. A considered design language was a key driver as was the use of a contemporary design language, colour palette, and sensitive and appropriate materials.
Set against the backdrop of the volumetric and historic Elder wing c1900, the curatorial team sought to place Australia’s colonial past in dialogue with the work of both traditional and contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, Polynesian Art.
Maximising slender vertical elements against the tall gallery archways and walls, strong planar forms and robust timber detailing, Skein worked closely with conservation specialists Artlab and local, talented artisan and furniture maker MJP Studio to achieve the bespoke display system.
Architecture: Skein
Curation: Art Gallery of South Australia
Fabrication (timber pedestals): MJP Studio
Installation view Elder Wing, Photos by Saul Steed and Skein