Canberra’s reputation centres on a few things – government, roundabouts, bush capital, and unfairly, dullness.
A hub of design is usually not associated with Canberra. However, the nation’s capital is teeming with local designers whose work is gaining traction. Four such designers are currently representing Canberra at DENFAIR in Melbourne. DENFAIR is one of Australia’s premier events for contemporary design, with designers, architects and interior stylists from all over the world presenting exhibits, speaker sessions and awards. Canberra’s representatives were pitched by Craft ACT – a not-for-profit membership based organisations that fosters and supports local talent. A statement from the organisation said:
“Unlike smaller market or gallery opportunities, gaining attention at DENFAIR can result in some big industry contacts.”
Craft ACT CEO and artistic director, Rachael Coghlan, said it was great Canberra designers were featured at the festival.
“I visited DENFAIR in Melbourne for its opening day on Thursday and it was inspiring,” she said. “Seeing work by emerging contemporary designers from the Canberra region on show alongside some of the biggest names in Australian design was very exciting.”
Denfair is an important, quality and high profile platform to promote contemporary design and encourage future collaborations. The event runs from June 14 to 16 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. The four Canberra designers featured include Christina Bricknell, Jun Rung, René Linssen and Richilde Flavell.