COMMISSION 📣
Building on Melbourne Art Foundation’s long-standing commitment
@to supporting practicing artists through grants (over $1.5M since 2003!), we’re proud to introduce a new Design Commission for the 2026 Fair, commissioned in partnership with
@ngvmelbourne .
The recipient of this inaugural commission: Melbourne-based artist, designer and all-around icon; Anna Varendorff
@varendorff @acvstudio . Trained as a metalsmith, Varendorff’s practice spans jewellery, sculpture, product and lighting designs. Defined by pared-back tubular forms, graceful arcs and slender brass or steel lines, her works culminate in refined objects that merge craft discipline with industrial clarity.
For the Commission, Varendorff will present her most ambitious composition to date of her iconic 𝘜 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘷𝘢𝘴𝘦𝘴, expanding her hallmark of tubular forms into a striking installation of ceiling lights, suspended vases and monumental floor vessels. The suspended elements are fabricated from aluminium U-shapes, mirrored in pairs — one upright, one inverted — to create rhythmic compositions that can both hold floral and cast light. The installation spans overhead and underfoot, offering a moment of stillness amid the energy of the Fair (or even the perfect place to spark a conversation).
After its debut at Melbourne Art Fair, 𝘜 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘷𝘢𝘴𝘦𝘴 will be on display at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia at Fed Square.
-
Images:
Anna Varendorff in her studio. Photos: Annika Kafcaloudis.