NEW WORK:

N O C T U A

MAKE award 2025, australian design centre

NOCTUA marks a new convergence in my work: a hybrid object that fuses light and jewel. Pairing the permanence of metal with the ephemerality of light, it is at once lamp, sculpture, jewellery and theatre. Simultaneously ornamental, functional, playful, and precious, this work investigates tensions between concealment and revelation, utility and ornament, value and worth.

The moth, an enduring emblem in my work, gains resonance here. Representing metamorphosis and hidden value, it becomes both subject and metaphor. Nocturnal moth species in particular, are often dull in appearance, yet are ecologically vital. The brooch unit of NOCTUA therefore pays tribute to the unassuming Australian Bogong moth. Using an original technique, a pixelated silhouette of this moth is made from hundreds of sapphires, captured between layers of meticulously hand-drilled titanium and silver. Externally, the perforations act as a veil, obscuring the glittering form until viewed from beneath, echoing the moth’s natural camouflage. Up close the gemstones shimmer, but in contrast, with light projected through them, they occlude light, casting a shadowed impression of the moth – an effect that is dramatised by shifting the lamp’s position in relation to the projection surface.

The lamp is entirely handcrafted and purpose built. Materialising the language of electronics, the solid metal form also functions as conduit, each half of the structure insulated from the other as it carries current to the light source. Complimenting this, the pivoting circular brooch housing refers to tools of observation such as optical instruments, lenses and scopes.

NOCTUA invites reflection on the aesthetics of discretion and discovery. When the brooch is worn, the moth recedes like an apparition inviting closer inspection. When removed, the reverse reveals a glittering surface, transforming adornment into an intimate, precious unveiling. Returned to the lamp, the moth becomes an ethereal emblem. Beauty is thus found in secrecy and subtlety, where light plays an essential role and value is found in what is often easily overlooked.

This new work is currently on exhibition as part of the MAKE Award - a national award presented by Australian Design Centre, celebrating innovation in contemporary craft and design. Works were submitted by Australian designer makers demonstrating innovation in technique or material use, and the 36 pre-selected finalists form this exciting exhibition.

make award 2025

10 october - 19 November 2025

australian design centre

101-115 William Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010

NOCTUA Film by Archie Sartracom with soundtrack by Alex Young