In-Conversation: Blanche Tilden & Jason Smith

Learn more about the work of Melbourne-based jeweller and maker Blanche Tilden in a conversation with exhibition curator and Geelong Gallery Director & CEO Jason Smith.

Blanche Tilden has maintained a vibrant practice for over twenty-five years, forging an international reputation in the dual fields of contemporary jewellery and studio glass. Blanche’s distinctive combinations of glass and metal explore the ever-present use of glass in objects and the built environment. Recognised for its innovation and originality, Blanche’s work has been acquired by all major Australian and significant international museum collections, including the National Gallery of Australia, the Corning Museum of Glass, New York, and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris.

Jason Smith is the Director & CEO of Geelong Gallery (2016–). He has most recently curated 'Jacky Redgate—HOLD ON' and the survey 'Fred Williams in You Yangs', and was the initiating curator and member of the international curatorial team for the acclaimed touring exhibition 'Making Modernism: O’Keeffe, Preston & Cossington Smith'. Jason was previously Head of Australian Art at the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art, and between 2008–14 was Director & CEO of Heide Museum of Modern Art. Previously he was Director of Monash Gallery of Art, and between 1997–2007 was Curator of Contemporary Art at the National Gallery of Victoria.

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Image: Blanche Tilden wearing Blanche Tilden’s Long Conveyor II (necklace) 2021, Geelong Galley Collection. Image courtesy Geelong Galley. Photographer: Marcus Scholz