Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre Media release     1 February 2011 Hidden Treasures   Michelle Kelly Fascinated with mycology, the study of fungi, South Australian artist Michelle Kelly draws attention to the presence and beauty of this major part of our ecosystem through large scale installations, wall pieces and jewellery in her solo exhibition, Hidden Treasures. Kelly explores the multiple intricacies of forms, colours and layered structures of fungi, a hidden treasure of the fifth kingdom, in her practice. “I aim to capture their beauty and structure and to create awareness concerning the work of these amazing living organisms”, she says. In doing so she brings the world of fungi, which is normally so unobtrusive, more clearly into view. “The fifth kingdom plays an important role on this planet”, Kelly explains. Fungi is used in a variety of ways to do “thankless tasks to help make this planet work”, she says. It is used for bio control in an effort to manage pests and diseases on crops; as a medicinal ingredient in antibiotics such as penicillin; and for food preparation in the form of yeast. In addition to this, some species of fungi are decomposing agents, recycling and breaking down nutrients from dead organic matter allowing nitrogen to be released into the soil and helping plants to re-grow. However you look at it, these tiny organisms have an enormous sociological impact. Through Hidden Treasures, Kelly endeavours to heighten public awareness of current environmental issues including global warming, sustainability, recycling, the greenhouse effect, nutrient cycling and disease. In 2011 Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre celebrates its 40th birthday. A series of exhibitions and programs have been developed to explore the history of the organisation and the people who have shaped it. The exhibition program also incorporates artists from across the country, highlighting the strength and diversity of contemporary craft and design in Australia. Mr Jon Stanhope, Chief Minister, Australian Capital Territory, will be guest speaker at the official opening of the exhibitions and launch of the Centre’s 40th birthday celebratory year at 6.pm Thursday 10 February 2011. The exhibition continues until Saturday 19 March 2011 in Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre’s Crucible Showcases, Level 1 North Building, 180 London Circuit, Canberra City. The Centre is open Tuesday to Friday 10.am to 5.pm and Saturday 12.pm to 4.pm. Avi Amesbury, Executive Director For information Media contact: Amy Kerr, Communications and Program Manager Telephone: (02) 6262 9333 Email: amy.kerr@craftact.org.au Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre - Level 1, North Building, 180 London Circuit, Canberra ACT Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre is supported by the Visual Arts and Craft Strategy - an initiative of the Australian, State and Territory Governments. Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre is also supported by the ACT Government and the Australia Council for the Arts, the Australian Government's arts funding and advisory body.