InFocus May 2025

Two decades of light and play

Celebrating 20 years of bold, artistic lighting, Volker Haug’s

retrospective exhibition charts the evolution of one of Melbourne’s

most distinctive design voices.

Originally from Germany, Haug moved to Melbourne in the early

2000s, founding a studio renowned for blending function with

artistic flair.

20 Years of Volker Haug Studios is a tribute to longevity, showcasing

Haug’s early work through to some of his most iconic pieces.

“Presenting a retrospective exhibition allows us to honour the creative

community that has supported us along the way,” he said.

“Melbourne’s design scene has always inspired us, and sharing this

moment with the community feels like the most meaningful way

to celebrate.”

Playful, sculptural pieces like Brother and Sister will feature in the

exhibition, at Volker Haug Studio, 2-12 St Phillip St, Brunswick East.

Photo: Paul Allister.

Creativity meets culture

Dr Trent Jansen’s Two Decades of Design Anthropology is a deeply

personal exhibition tracing his journey from object making to cultural

storytelling.

From road sign stools to powerful collaborations with First Nations

artists, Jansen’s work brings design into dialogue with identity,

memory and place.

“I’ve never seen such a large body of my work in one space before,

so I’m looking forward to connecting works from different phases

of my career, noticing the threads that tie them together, and

establishing a clearer understanding of where I’ve been and where

I’m heading,” he said.

The Magistrato Al Sal Nero Cabinet by Trent Jansen designed for the

Venice Design Biennial, 47 Easey Street, Collingwood.

Image: Veronika Motulko.

Offcuts and originals

Founded by Garrett and Alex Lark, Brunswick-based Made Studio

brings beauty and intention to every curve and contour of their latest

collection, Offcuts.

Known for exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail, the brothers

merge art, design and innovation to create their distinctly tactile

pieces.

“As Melbourne brothers, we are incredibly proud to be a part of MDW

exhibiting new pieces from the studio and workshop we have grown

together,” they said.

“Crafting our pieces locally allows us to indulge in the freedom

of experimentation as well as make holistic use of every element of

the materials.”

Garrett Lark works on one of the pieces for the exhibition, at Made

Studio, 175 Rose St, Fitzroy. Photo: Alex Lark

May 2025

In Focus Magazine

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