Immerse yourself in a night of bespoke experiences at Night MODE: Handcrafted Edition, a celebration of the authentic and the artisanal.

Dive deep into Generation Clay: Reimagining Asian Heritage with exclusive late-night access and explore a rich exhibition of craftsmanship and culture.

Drawing inspiration from memories, self-exploration, and cultural reconnections, this edition features a curated short film program that delves into the same themes. Engage in a vibrant rice painting workshop led by the talented Vivian Qiu, where your creativity will flow as vividly as your brush strokes. Witness the grace and beauty of traditional Chinese dances, performed live by the renowned Bonnie Fearn, a prominent figure in Australia’s dance scene, specialising in Chinese dance.

As you wander through displays of intricate ceramics, each piece tells a story of heritage and identity, traditional methods meeting contemporary design. Night MODE: Handcrafted Edition is a journey through the senses, celebrating the art of the handmade and the spirit of discovery. Join us for an unforgettable evening where every detail is an ode to the beauty of being handcrafted.

This event is suitable for those aged 18+

_{Hero image courtesy of the artist, Vivian Qiu.} 
 

EVENT PROGRAM

WORKSHOP: Rice Painting with Vivian Qiu  
Join artist Vivian Qiu in a unique Rice Painting workshop inspired by her Chinese heritage and the healing effect of comfort food — plain rice congee.

EXHIBITION: Generation Clay: Reimagining Asian Heritage
Generation Clay: Reimagining Asian Heritage celebrates the vibrant versatility of clay, presented by a new generation of Asian-Australian contemporary artists. Together, these artists are reimagining traditional and ceramic forms in ways that resonate with our current moment.

WORKSHOP: Clay Trinkets
In this self-guided session, immerse yourself in the tactile joy of sculpting using air-dry clay to craft unique ornaments, pendants, or mini sculptures.

PERFORMANCE: Bonnie Fearn, 6:20 pm, 7:20pm and 8:20pm
Bonnie Fearn, a prominent figure in Australia's dance scene, specialises as a Chinese dancer, instructor, and choreographer. She graduated from Guangdong Dance School, one of China's premier dance academies, and earned her Chinese dance degree at Xinghai Conservatory of Music in Guangzhou. Her career highlights include solo and group performances at a range of events and venues around the world. Bonnie also conducts Chinese dance school programs for local preschool, primary, and secondary students, aiming to foster a deeper cultural understanding of Chinese culture through dance initiatives. 

FLOOR TALK: Generation Clay: Reimagining Asian Heritage, 7.45pm - 8.15pm
Join us in the Gallery and learn more about the art and artists of Generation Clay: Reimagining Asian Heritage.

EXHIBITION: Suzani Stories: Celebrating Heritage, Community and Life Through Afghan-Persian Needlework
Suzani Stories is a celebration of Afghan culture, heritage and community through embroidery. In collaboration with a group of 14 women from the local Afghan community, not-for-profit social enterprise The Social Studio developed a series of original self-portraits, illustrations and poetry inspired by the lives and experiences of the embroiderers. 

WORKSHOP: Afghan Hand-Embroidery with Somaya + Mahboba 
Join mother and daughter collaborators, Mahboba + Somaya of Maya Designs, and learn to hand-embroider traditional Afghan motifs. Using different stitch techniques that hold deep cultural significance, workshop participants will also receive a booklet with instructions on how to continue their hand-embroidery projects at home.  

ACTIVITY: Dumpling Exchange  
Join culinary artist Jean Silk for an enriching workshop where the art of dumpling making becomes a gateway to cultural exchange and reflection. Through hands-on instruction, Jean will guide participants in crafting delicious dumplings while fostering discussions on heritage, identity, and the personal stories that connect us. 

Bar and Dining 
Savour culinary delights and refreshing beverages available for purchase. Nestled between three interactive workshops, a vibrant performance area, and captivating exhibitions, this spot offers a perfect blend of entertainment and refreshment.

Short Film Program
Cosy up in our pop-up cinema and enjoy a diverse collection of films that explore themes synonymous with those throughout the program. Each screening offers a unique lens on artistic expression, inviting viewers to delve deeper into the narratives that shape our world.

• Happy New Year, Ms. Luna, 2023 (17min) Andy Diep, ReelGood Film Festival
• Anyone, 2024 (1 min) Linh Thao Tran, MAGI RMIT University
• Pills & Powder Milk, 2022 (4min) Nazareth Alfred, AFTRS
• Fantastic Bunny and Where It Comes From, (2min) Kora Lee, MAGI RMIT University
• Lucky Peach, 2023 (15min), Grace Tan, ReelGood Film Festival
• Monkey On My Back, (6min) Crystal Tai, MAGI RMIT University
• She; Who Lives, 2022 (10min) Ayesha Farooq, AFTRS