Low Stakes is an exercise in design, materials and function. The brief is simple: make an object that can be sat on. It could be a couch, a recliner, a chair, a bench, a stand, a throne or a stool.

Throughout human history chairs are present in all aspects of life as both invisible and symbolic objects. They can be impromptu assemblages of random materials on hand or celebrations of the most sophisticated craftsmanship. This exhibition will present a range of chair designs built by creatives working in the field of visual art, textiles, architecture and design. Curated by artist Dan McCabe, this project utilises play as its core philosophy –– the stakes are low, loosen up. It’s ok to fail. It’s a chair.

Featuring artists Sarah Poulgrain, Nathan Thomas, Monica Rohan and Mitchell Donaldson, Melanie Martin, Meagan Streader, Lulu Mitchell-Oehlers, Loren Kronemyer, Katie West, Jamie Macchiusi, Han Oh, Corey Khan, Claire and Dave Clark-Robertson, Bruno Booth, Amanda Bell, and curated by Dan McCabe.

Image: a very small and impractical neon chair concept (2024)

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This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body.

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