Inspiring Island Communities

Australia’s smallest state, Tasmania, is forging a reputation for innovative art and design.
This island – with a population of less than ½ million – is more renowned for its wonders of nature, including great tracts of rainforest and decidedly unusual wildlife. But nature’s superlatives aren’t just a draw for rising tourist numbers. They are increasingly being recognised as a fillip for artistic innovation – Tasmania’s natural wonders are both the inspiration and subject for the works of many Tasmanian artists.

The diversity of the Tasmanian artistic community is evident in the works of three local artists: fashion designers Monique Germon and Leonie Struthers, and jewellery designer and craftsperson, Dianne Allison.

Diane Allison
Tasmanian-born jewellery designer Diane Allison uses unorthodox materials to create jewellery that is both beautiful and meaningful. Allison incorporates non-precious, ‘discarded’ objects into her designs, as well as the traditional materials of sterling silver and gold, to create uniquely intimate and personal pieces.

A sixth-generation Tasmanian, Allison’s collections have a strong sense of place and a deep connection to Tasmania’s history. Allison’s fascination with nature was founded during her childhood years growing up on a farm in Tasmania’s Central Highlands, home to mountain-top lakes and dense wilderness. She also credits the strong and supportive artistic community in Tasmania and its ‘generosity of spirit and sheer goodwill’ for keeping the island’s art dynamic.

Allison’s 2006 collection features the piece Circumference, a delicately hand-knitted sterling silver necklace teamed with native acacia seeds. As Allison explains, ‘Each millimetre of knitting corresponds to a kilometre of Tasmanian coastline where acacias are often found hugging our convoluted shores. Encircling the wearer, the acacia seeds of Circumference hug the contours of the neckline in an ever-changing way.’

Dianne Allison jewellery available at Handmark Gallery. 77 Salamanca Place, Hobart, Tasmania. www.hallison.com

Monique Germon and Leonie Struthers (Love & Clutter) Love & Clutter is a unique concept store dedicated to Tasmanian artists and designers. Located in Tasmania’s capital city, Hobart, the store is the creation of Monique Germon and Leonie Struthers and reflects their commitment to local art and design. 

The main focus of the store is fashion, featuring local designer labels: LJ Struthers, Monique Germon, Two Two, scarves and pillows by Tara Badcock; jewellery by Linda Van Niekirk and Marisa, whimsical acrylic brooches and necklaces by Dick & Dora; prints by Mandy Renard, Simone Pfister’s hand cut and coloured etchings, Duncan Hose’s ink drawings. You can also find Tim Buckley’s hand printed fabrics and pillows, and, finally, some original children’s clothing - L.J. Junior. 

As Monique Germon explains, ‘We don’t really have any set selection criteria apart from quality. We take great joy in seeing that the artist has made the work themselves with love and care.’

Germon and Struthers both moved to Tasmania from mainland Australia in 2000 and fell in love with the state’s natural beauty. They met in 2004 and realised they shared a passion for fine fabrics, vintage clothing and accessories – soon after Love & Clutter was opened.

Germon says, ‘Love & Clutter enjoys taking the responsibility for exhibiting products that are unique, interesting and made with an ethical and socially aware mindset.’

This exquisite store exhibits the work of a number of Tasmanian printmakers as well as quirky antiques and vintage clothing pieces that fit within the store’s fusion of fashion and art.

Love & Clutter, 31 Murray Street, Hobart, Tasmania. loveandclutter@gmail.com
+61 36224 2222