Emma Bugg, born in lutriwita/Tasmania in 1981, is a contemporary jeweller known for her innovative approach that blends craft with a curiosity for materials and technology. With over fourteen years of experience, Emma explores the boundaries of her field, merging traditional techniques with innovative conceptual ideas to create deeply resonant pieces. Her work goes beyond mere adornment, connecting deeply with viewers and engaging audiences on a profound level.
 

In 2023, Emma was awarded a fellowship for the Women’s Art Prize in Tasmania, a testament to her dedication to exploring the intersections of art and technology. Her work explores complex themes, as exemplified by her 2024 collaboration with Professor Andrew Pask for the “Not Natural” exhibition at Science Gallery, Melbourne. For this project, Emma created an installation featuring a locket containing Thylacine pelt and DNA, offering viewers a poignant space to reflect on de-extinction and its ethical implications. This piece highlights her ability to fuse scientific inquiry with innovative artistic expression.
 

As a co-founder of the State of Flux Workshop in Hobart, established in 2020, Emma has cultivated a space where contemporary jewellery is created and celebrated. This artist-run workshop and gallery connects with the broader national and global community of contemporary jewellery and object makers. 
 

Emma’s practice integrates precious metals with emerging technologies, such as NFC tags and QR codes, transforming jewellery into interactive experiences. This innovative approach has established her as a leading figure in the field, with her work featured in prestigious collections and institutions, including MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) and Science Gallery, Melbourne.
A finalist in the Woollahra Small Sculpture prize, 2024 with her entry Nuggets of Wisdom and Fries with That, Emma's work is an interactive sculptural jewellery set that connects viewers to an AI chicken nugget chat bot. This work can be viewed until October 20t at the Woollahra Gallery
 

At the heart of Emma’s practice is a commitment to innovation and storytelling, positioning her as a transformative figure in contemporary jewellery, whose work not only reflects the present but also engages with the future.

Emma is presenting at the Women in Design event in November, 2024. More details here

Make an appointment to speak with Emma at State of Flux Workshop, or  make contact here 

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​​Galleries and Stockists:

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• State of Flux Workshop, HOBART,  TASMANIA

• MONA Museum bookshop, Berriedale, TASMANIA

• Handmark, Hobart TASMANIA

• Design Tasmania, Launceston TASMANIA

 

 

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