Opening on 18 July, Convergence @ Yarra Lane is a group installation presenting work by top Australian designers for the 2009 State of Design Festival theme ‘Sampling the Future.’

An exciting initiative by the Victorian State Government, the State of Design Festival incorporates over 80 interactive events, exhibitions, workshops and discussions between 15 and 25 July.

Convergence @ Yarra Lane is an integral part of the Festival’s Public and Cultural Program, which advocates for the importance of design in the community.

Among the inventive work exhibited is jewellery by Julia deVille, whose inspiration by the Momento Mori and Victoria Mourning pieces led her to combine once living materials with traditional gold and silversmithing techniques.

Also presenting work is Moth Design, which unites past and future production techniques to symbolize a mounting concern for the implications of advancing technology in design.

Rosie Scott’s designs, also on show at the event, merge interior, body, art and architecture to encourage the re-evaluation of the relationship between these aspects and communities.

Convergence also exhibits work by Nick Rennie, Laura Woodward, James Carey, Emma van Leest, Leah Heiss, the Monash Architecture Design Studio and the Spatial Research Group.

Melbournians boast of the magic of the hidden laneway bars, stores and cafés that only they are aware of. And until recently, locals would trek to the depths of the city, navigating dark backstreets in order to frequent these uber-trendy locations.

Yarra Lane, developed by Michael L Yates & Co, will bring the intrigue of alleyway shopping and dining to the commercial heart of South Yarra, and the Convergence event will evoke correspondingly cultured tones.

This free event will be open to the public at 9 Yarra Street, South Yarra until 17 August 2009.

stateofdesign.com.au/events/design-for-everyone/convergence

Hero Image: work by James Carey

Julia deVille

Rosie Scott & Leah Heiss