Sparkling Dew-Covered Branch

Research Background Every Brilliant Eye: Australian Art of the 1990s explores a decade in Australian art. Weaver's sculpture Sparkling dew covered branch is considered in relation to this period of dramatic change as artists adopted new technologies and increasingly heterogeneous approaches to making art. In this context she asks, "How can a crochet covered sculptural form be apprehended as both rigid and mutable?" Research Contribution First exhibited in 2003, this white sculpture was originally hung low on a contrasting dark grey wall to highlight its form. In this most recent (2017) exhibition, the work is seen as distinctly different - positioned high on a white wall. Presented in this way, I noticed that the form appeared less as a rigid structure; instead it seemed to emphasize it as subtle tonal gestures of light and shade across the surface of the wall. This observation has led to breakthroughs in developing both content and processes for my recent "white" paintings. Knowledge that has led to the development of an innovative system of first layering "skins" of paint upon malleable plastic, before applying them to alternate canvas supports as textured "collage". Research Significance NGV Senior Curator of Australian Art, Jane Devery and NGV Curator, Pip Wallis curated Every Brilliant Eye: Australian Art Of The 1990's. An exhibition exploring a decade in Australian art and featuring key works from the National Gallery of Victoria collection augmented by works from other institutions and private collections. It includes a sculpture by Weaver alongside works by Susan Norrie, Narelle Jubelin, and Emily Kam Kngwarray. The work also features in the Gallery's education programme and publicity for the exhibition.