MASTER OF VISUAL ARTS EXHIBITIONHELD AT GUS GALLERY [December 2021]

VON ARA’s Academic Finale: MAVA Exhibition at GUS Gallery

In December 2021, I proudly concluded my academic journey at Stellenbosch University by presenting my Master of Visual Arts (MAVA) body of work at the renowned GUS Gallery in Stellenbosch, Cape Town.

This exhibition was more than a graduation milestone—it was the conceptual and creative foundation of VON ARA. It represented years of research, making, and critical thought distilled into a cohesive collection of jewellery artworks that challenged traditional notions of adornment, identity, and form.

A Launchpad for VON ARA

Many of the pieces that debuted in this academic exhibition continue to live on in VON ARA’s evolving collection. They embody the brand’s core values: bold aesthetics, narrative-driven design, and a fearless commitment to pushing boundaries in contemporary jewellery.

Exhibiting at GUS Gallery, a space known for showcasing experimental and interdisciplinary art, gave my work an ideal platform to spark dialogue and engage a wider audience. The feedback and support from this experience were instrumental in shaping the direction of VON ARA as a brand and studio practice.

From Academia to Independent Practice

The transition from postgraduate study to professional practice can be daunting—but the MAVA exhibition offered me clarity, confidence, and momentum. It was the final chapter of one journey, and the first page of the next.

I’m incredibly grateful for the guidance, critique, and inspiration received throughout my time at Stellenbosch University. The MAVA exhibition was more than an academic requirement—it was a deeply personal and professional turning point.