Most people take little notice of the wrapping, packaging and clippings we discard every day. Legendary Australian artist Elizabeth Gower has built an entire career out of them.

For the first time since 1997, Geelong Gallery will host a major exhibition by the prominent contemporary artist. Cuttings by Elizabeth Gower brings together significant bodies of work from the last two decades, as well as premiering a 21-metre collage by the artist.

Emerging in the 1970s as a young feminist artist, Elizabeth’s work explores global consumption and consumerism. Her conversations around the social and environmental impact of these human vices remain as relevant today as they were four decades ago, at the beginning of her career.

Using collected printed matter, Elizabeth employs the styles of traditionally domestic techniques like quilt making, mosaic tiling, knitting and embroidery. Layering, repurposing and collaging, Elizabeth’s works are intricate, geometric and repetitive, reflecting a human desire to create order out of chaos.

To celebrate the landmark exhibition, Geelong Gallery have created a range of limited-release design items, including a silk scarf and bookmarks emblazoned with Elizabeth’s work, as well as a comprehensive exhibition catalogue.

With an exhibition history spanning four decades and ongoing position as a senior lecturer at the University of Melbourne’s VCA, Elizabeth’s pioneering work has influenced many young artists. Her work has been commissioned for many high profile public buildings including the Melbourne World Trade Centre, MCG and the Sydney Olympics Superdome, and has been acquired by the Art Gallery of New South Wales, National Gallery of Victoria and the National Gallery of Australia, Canberra.

Cuttings by Elizabeth Gower
September 1st – November 25th
Open daily, 10am-5pm

Geelong Gallery
55 Little Malop Street
Geelong, Victoria