First Look – Fri 31 July: Artisan’s UNLEASHED+ Exhibition Arrives at HOTA

For more than two decades, UNLEASHED has launched the careers of some of Queensland’s most exciting makers. This year, an expanded edition of artisan’s career-defining biennial raises the bar by debuting at HOTA, Home of the Arts on the Gold Coast.

Behind every remarkable object is a maker with a story. Some work from kitchen benches, others from backyard sheds, shared studios and converted warehouses. Their practices are as diverse as the materials they transform, yet many share a defining milestone: UNLEASHED.

UNLEASHED is the exhibition where architects and interior designers discover creatives to commission. Where collectors acquire future classics. Where curators spot fresh talent. And where emerging makers take a leap from promising practice toward national recognition.

Opening from 1 August to 8 November 2026, artisan’s expanded edition of UNLEASHED+ brings together 12 outstanding Queensland practitioners working across jewellery, ceramics, furniture, lighting and object design. This year’s artists are Ben Adams, Julia Bramich, Céline Caron, Gabi Harris, Petalia Humphreys, Jacqueline Kaytar, Michelle Le Plastrier, William MacLean, Jude Muduioa, Rachel North, Rhiannon Sothern and Tom Summers. Their works range from intimate wearable pieces to architecturally scaled sculptural objects – blurring the boundaries between art and design, form and function.

As a new chapter of UNLEASHED+, Personal Languages showcases new work by five inaugural artisan in Residence alumni – Regi Cherini, Erin Conron, Norton Fredericks, Rick Hayward and Natalie Ward. Together, they represent a new generation of makers redefining contemporary craftsmanship through innovation, sustainability and bold material exploration.

These companion exhibitions trace two important stages in a creative career – emergence and evolution – oering a rare opportunity to appreciate the breadth, ambition and diversity of Queensland’s contemporary craft and design ecosystem in a single destination.

artisan CEO Carmel Haugh says:
“Queensland produces some of Australia’s most exciting contemporary makers, and talent is just part of the equation. Artists need visibility, opportunity and ambitious platforms that connect them with collectors, curators and new audiences. UNLEASHED has always been about recognising exceptional practice early and accelerating creative careers. Now, presenting UNLEASHED+ with HOTA gives these makers the profile their work deserves while demonstrating the strength and confidence of contemporary craft and design in Queensland.”

HOTA Gallery General Manager David Don says:
“Hosting UNLEASHED+ at HOTA is a celebration of Queensland’s extraordinary creative talent and the vital role our artists and makers play in shaping our cultural identity. We’re proud to partner with artisan to present an exhibition that champions innovation, craftsmanship and contemporary design. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to supporting creatives, creating meaningful opportunities for audiences to connect with their work, and ensuring Queensland’s vibrant creative sector continues to thrive.”

UNLEASHED+ at HOTA Gallery Opening:

Saturday 1 August

Exhibition Dates: 1 August – 8 November 2026

Gallery 4, HOTA, Home of the Arts
135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise

artisan.org.au | hota.com.au

Opening Day Activities

Meet the makers and be among the first to experience artisan’s UNLEASHED+ exhibition on Saturday 1 August at HOTA Gallery. Enjoy a day of artist talks and workshops before the exhibition continues through to 8 November 2026.

Whether you’ve followed UNLEASHED from the beginning, collect contemporary craft and design, commission makers or simply love discovering exceptional creative talent, this is your opportunity to appreciate the future of Queensland craft and design—and meet the people shaping it.

For more information visit UNLEASHED.