The significance of an object’s personal meaning, and the stories it can hold and communicate will be explored in the Hidden Jewels exhibition by Barbara Heath at GOMA.
Based in Brisbane, Heath honed her artistry and craft in metal and gemstones across a five-decade long career.
Hidden Jewels is a free exhibition developed by Heath in collaboration with the Children’s Art Centre at the Gallery of Modern Art which opens on Saturday, November 7, 2026 and runs until July 25, 2027.
QAGOMA Director Chris Saines said project would allow children to create their own jewels and explore the process of design.
“The exhibition also displays an eclectic assortment of Heath’s jewellery as well as objects from her home and studio, such as gemstones, cameos and small sculptures that provide further insight into her working environment and inspiration,” Mr Saines said.
Heath calls herself a “Jeweller to the Lost” – a reference to the journey undertaken by the maker and the wearer to find the perfect jewel.
She is interested in the significance of a “jewel’ in its broadest sense – whether a precious or semi-precious gemstone, a button, or a found object.
The exhibition includes a drawing activity called Love Tokens which invites participants to design a small object representing themselves to gift to a friend or family member.
It was inspired by Heath’s Love Token series (1987-91) which included several doll-like sculptures made from an assortment of materials such as semi-precious stones, tortoiseshell combs, and a boar’s tooth.
Paper Chains is another creative activity inspired by Heath’s signature multi-link necklaces and bracelets. Audiences are invited to create a wearable necklace or bracelet using paper strips and collage elements.
For more information visit QAGOMA.
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