Technique is cheap

This work was shown as part of Backbone, a group exhibition at ANU School of Art and Design Gallery, showcasing work by technical staff at the ANU School of Art & Design.

I am proud to have work shown alongside my colleagues and friends: Emma Beer, Estelle Briedis, Sean Booth, Chris ‘Walrus’ Dalzell, Louis Grant, John Hart, Mahala Hill and Catherine Newton.

Throughout my studies at ANU School of Art and Design there was a lecturer would often repeat the phrase ‘Technique is cheap’, first coined by Harvey Littleton in 1972. He referred to the debate between glass making as a craft and a fine art. Between skill and concept, Littleton thought skills could be learned from a book, whereas concept was pivotal in creating artwork.

In the context of the work there is an irony to the phrase. I am striving for exceptional technique (and have a long way to go). My practice, about repetition and skill, places technique at the centre. Each iteration of work is an attempt to make the best possible work, technically speaking.

Backbone runs from Tuesday 08 July 2025 to Friday 29 Augugust 2025. Read about the show here.