Synthesis
Presented by Studio Shields
DETAILS
Free, no booking required
Bishop's Parlour
Abbotsford Convent, Saint Heliers Street, Abbotsford VIC, Australia
DATES
Thu 14 May 11am – 4.30pm
Thu 14 May 5 – 8.30pmBook now
Opening night, booking requiredLimited availability
Fri 15 May 11am – 5pm
Sat 16 May 11am – 5pm
Sun 17 May 11am – 5pm
Mon 18 May 11am – 5pm
Tue 19 May 11am – 5pm
Wed 20 May 11am – 5pm
Thu 21 May 11am – 5pm
Fri 22 May 11am – 5.30pm
Last day open!
Synthesis by Studio Shields is presented within the Bishop’s Parlour and Foyer at the Abbotsford Convent. Heritage architecture becomes the framework for a contemporary interior installation, where encaustic tiles, stained glass and time-worn timber remain untouched, allowing the building’s existing character to anchor the space. Within this setting, a collective of Australian designers and artists present contemporary collectible works arranged as layered domestic vignettes rather than isolated objects.
Furniture, lighting, textiles, objects and art are positioned as they might exist in a home – in relation to one another. A custom sofa by Culture Cush, upholstered in Mokum fabric, anchors the primary living setting, while a multifunctional desk by Mood Workshop, using Elton Group veneer, grounds the foyer. A bespoke scent developed by Nunchi Oils moves subtly through the rooms, extending the exhibition beyond the visual.
Established names are presented alongside emerging designers, makers and artists, intentionally dissolving hierarchy and encouraging dialogue. Visitors are invited to sit, linger and experience the works in context – not as distant artefacts, but as pieces capable of shaping daily rituals and lived space.
Participants
Ruby Shields / Studio Shields
Ruby Shields is the founder and creative force behind Studio Shields, a Naarm/Melbourne-based interior design and decoration practice known for colour-drenched, materially rich interiors that feel ingrained rather than applied. Her work is grounded in the belief that spaces should be cultivated over time, layered through craft, collaboration and lived experience.With a background in visual storytelling and a deep respect for Australian makers, Ruby creates immersive environments defined by colour, materiality, bespoke joinery and considered curation. She approaches each project as a narrative, where colour acts as structure, material holds memory, and every detail is considered, resulting in spaces that are bold and personal.
Craig Shanahan / Mood Workshop
Reioni Douglas / Culture Cush
Hannah Nowlan / Nunchi Oils
Amy Vidler
Anne U
Bel Williams
Billy Crellin
Bolaji Teniola
Cameron Green
Carl Broesen
Curtis Bloxsidge & 2am Close
Dean Norton
Eloise McCullough / Fools Glass
Em Frank
Emma Shepard
Georgia Harvey
Indigo Tolhurst
Jacquelin Kaytar
Jordan Fleming
Kelly Brown
Locki Humphrey
Martyn Thompson
Max Copolov
Melvin Josy
Nathan Martin / Saturday Yard Work
Nicole Lawrence
Objects For Thought
Patrick Scott
Ro Noonan
Simone Tops
Tantri Mustika
Thannie Phan
Thomas Maxam
Zoe Diacolabianos