Grace Yu Piper
MATERIALISE by HANDSHAKE8
the process of transforming artistic ideas into physical form
Denise Callan, Fiona Frew, Fran Carter, Genie Lee, Grace Yu Piper, Lisa van Hulst, Louise Hill, Nellie Peoples, Rachael Chapman, Rose Pickernell, Tūī Diprose
8 November 2024 - 16 February 2025
Upstairs Galleries
MATERIALISE marks the conclusion of a two-year journey for this remarkable group of HANDSHAKE 8 artists, at The Arts House Trust, Pah Homestead, Auckland.
Over this period, participants have explored and honed their practices through online and in person masterclasses, lecture series in art history & theory, and collaboration with mentors, including this year’s video presentation masterclass led by Catalan maker Estela Saez-Vilanova.
During this time, they have worked closely together, sharing invaluable experiences and cultivating a shared vision of leadership, all while striving to achieve their individual artistic goals.
The resulting exhibition showcases diverse material and conceptual approaches, embodying Handshake’s ethos of exploration and innovation.
HANDSHAKE is an arts mentorship programme established by M101 for independent Aotearoa jewellery artists. Now in its 13th year, having completed 8 iterations, Handshake has a legacy of providing candidates with a unique and rare opportunity to engage in an extensive programme of professional development opportunities.
For the selected emerging artists, this two-year HS8 programme encourages experimentation, feedback, and development to create unique and meaningful works that reflect artistic styles and perspectives. This is nurtured by offering masterclasses, workshops, coaching, and individual mentors (renowned national and international jewellery artists) to support professional development in their artistic field.
In the first year, the focus is on experimental creative exercises and developing new ideas and directions. The second year emphasises personal artistic growth and critical reflection, with mentors and mentees working closely together, each year culminating in a group exhibition.
The chance to exhibit their resulting work has seen participants showcase nationally and abroad, including selected alumni exhibiting at the likes of The Crypt in London, and the annual Schmuck festival in Munich, Germany.
““I joined Handshake in order to push my practice and have a safe and supportive space to experiment… At the beginning I was reluctant to let go but I realised that there can be two (or more!) ways of working.””
Handshake fosters a community of creatives, united by respect, professionalism and openness. Artists, past and present, continue to exhibit together, forging relationships with galleries and exploring new exhibition opportunities. Their network with mentors, coaches, and other HS alumni extends beyond this project. A great example of this will see the HS8 group reunite for their first independent exhibition for Nelson Jewellery Week in April 2025.
Lean more about the HandShake project here
The eleven HS8 participants with their mentors:
Rachael Chapman Katrin Spranger
Tui Diprose Estela Saez-Vilanova
Lisa Van Hulst Manon van Kouswijk
