Handmade Universe: From craft to code and the spaces between

Handmade Universe: From craft to code and the spaces between explored how we connect with universal themes of place and identity through the act of making by hand. The exhibition celebrated the rewards of making and the limitless scope it offers for invention and enquiry.

Contemporary artists presented newly commissioned works to sit alongside rare and remarkable items from State Library Victoria and other collections. Many of the collection items had never been on public display before. 

Two works of immense scale were at the centre of Handmade Universe: Mandy Nicholson’s striking textile work Dharangalk Biik I Star Country and Sarah Spencer’s epic knitted star map Stargazing (pictured).

The exhibition was held in Victoria Gallery from 24 June 2022 to 26 February 2023.

• The Handmade Universe book was made possible by the generous support of the Gordon Darling Foundation
• Explore the exhibition website
• See all past exhibitions