UNLEASHED+

artisan are proud to present their biennial exhibition UNLEASHED+ at HOTA Gallery in 2026.  

Since 2004, artisan's UNLEASHED biennial exhibition has established itself as Queensland's premier platform for launching emerging craft and design practitioners. This year, UNLEASHED+ marks a significant evolution, introducing artisan’s largest cohort of artists to date, in partnership with HOTA, Home of the Arts.   

This exhibition unfolds in two chapters, bringing together emerging Queensland makers at a pivotal moment in their creative development. The first presents work from the inaugural artisan in Residence program, where five craft and design practitioners were engaged to develop new bodies of work, exploring process, gesture and material expression.  

The second chapter introduces the UNLEASHED+ biennial, supporting twelve makers through exhibition, mentoring and market development. The 2026 finalists were selected by a panel of leading art, culture and design professionals including Sally Brand, Dr Simon Maidment, Imelda Miller, Brian Parkes and Kimberly Stokes. 

Together, these artists reflect the exciting innovation of Queensland's emerging talent, offering compelling approaches to metal, timber, clay, glass and textiles. Gathering talent from the Gold Coast, Scenic Rim, Ipswich, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Townsville and Cairns, this exhibition represents a fresh chapter for craft and design in Queensland.  

UNLEASHED+ 2026 Finalists 

Ben Adams, Julia Bramich, Céline Caron, Gabi Harris, Petalia Humphreys, Jacqueline Kaytar, Michelle Le Plastrier, William MacLean, Jude Muduioa, Rachel North, Rhiannon Sothern, Tom Summers

 

artisan Residence 2025-2026 Alumni 

Regi Cherini, Erin Conron, Norton Fredericks, Rick Hayward, Natalie Ward 

To learn more about the exhibiting artists, visit artisan.org.au

About artisan

artisan is Queensland's premier craft and design organisation. Since 1970, artisan have led, fostered, and profiled craft and design through place-based development and partnership programs. Makers and creators are central to everything they do. For over 55 years, artisan has been building pathways, creating opportunities, and championing Queensland's unique craft and design practitioners.