John Curtin Gallery visitors can explore the history of ceramics, enjoy the work of renowned Australian artists and discover hidden gems from the Curtin University Art Collection at three new exhibitions currently on display.
Fantastic Forms is an expansive selection of multi-hued drawings and curvilinear ceramics by Merric Boyd (1888-1959) – considered Australia’s first studio potter – presented alongside the very different practices of three contemporary Australian artists.
Drawn from the Bundanon Collection, Boyd’s nationally touring works are shown in dialogue with new large-scale sculptures by Nabilah Nordin (Singapore/VIC/US), exquisite ceramic figures by Stephen Benwell (VIC) and stop-motion videos by emerging Bundjalung artist Rubyrose Bancroft (NSW).
Expanding on Boyd’s ethos of love and connection, Fantastic Forms explores the joy of artmaking and its connection to everyday life.
Fantastic Forms co-curator and Head of Curatorial and Learning at Bundanon Sophie O’Brien said this substantial presentation of Boyd drawings and ceramics represents his commitment to a deeply creative life and his son Arthur’s continuation of this, in his own work and in his support of other artists.
“Fantastic Forms was first presented in Bundanon’s new art museum in 2023 and commenced a three-year national tour earlier this year,” Ms Bryan said.
“We’re thrilled that this presentation at John Curtin Gallery is the first time the exhibition is seen in a capital city and it will be the only opportunity for Western Australian audiences to experience this extraordinary, dynamic and little-known body of work.”
An exploration of ceramics from the Curtin University Art Collection, Dirt Feeling presents works spanning the Collection’s 57-year history and includes several new acquisitions shown at the John Curtin Gallery for the first time.
The exhibition showcases the work of nearly 70 artists, including Glenn Barkley, Pippin Drysdale, Josina Pumani and Angela Valamanesh.
Curated as a ceramic storytelling experience, Dirt Feeling traces more than six decades of practice and celebrates the sensual nature of the medium.
This exhibition is an ode to the diverse ceramic practices within Australia and beyond.
John Curtin Gallery Curator Lia McKnight said from beginning to end, ceramic processes require an open responsiveness and ability to cope with or even embrace failure, which in turn breeds humility and an enthusiasm for constant learning.
“Numerous artists represented in Dirt Feeling have had far reaching impact on their peers, communities and succeeding generations,” Ms McKnight said.
“This field is sustained by a generosity of spirit, which translates into works that collectively offer a cacophonous gift to the senses.”
The third exhibition, Everyday, Myths and Legends, is a showcase of Curtin alumni artworks bringing together stories, experiences and insights into imagined and real worlds.
Featuring recent and historical acquisitions, this exhibition highlights the rich diversity of the Curtin University Art Collection.
Early works by Richard Giblett and Gina Moore are recontextualised alongside new works from emerging artists such as Grace Yong and Mim Kowner, both recently featured in the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts Hatched: National Graduate Show 2025.
John Curtin Gallery Director Associate Professor Susanna Castleden said she is looking forward to three unique exhibitions coming together as the Gallery celebrates the Noongar Kambarang season.
“John Curtin Gallery’s Kambarang exhibitions not only put the Curtin University Art Collection into a rich new context, but the amazing work of Merric Boyd as well,” Associate Professor Castleden said.
“Each of these exhibitions showcase a diverse range of artistic practices – particularly in ceramics – and highlight the work of some historically significant artists.”
The three exhibitions will be at John Curtin Gallery from October 3 until December 7, 2025.
John Curtin Gallery will also present a new selection of Carrolup artworks in its Kattidj Nagãr [Peaceful Quiet Reflection] space, which will reopen in October with reproductions from artists including Barry Loo, Edie Wallam, Keith Indich and Once Known Child Artists, with works by Authur Bropho, Alma Cuttabut, and Parnell Dempster.
Carrolup Collection Curator Zali Morgan said changing the works displayed in the space allows new truths and stories to come up and be shared.
“Whilst grounding the space in the truth of the Stolen Generations stories, we must remember to be respectful of each other’s truths, and the broader truth of Australia,” Ms Morgan said.
