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Marieke Dench

Marieke Dench is a Melbourne artist recognised for her work in painting, printmaking, and sculpture that examines human experience and environmental themes. With pieces in public and private collections, she also teaches at Melbourne institutions, including the VCA and RMIT University.

Marieke Dench in her home studio. Photo: Peter M Lamont

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Teaching Resources for Marieke Dench (paid plans only)

Art Minute

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Art Minute: Marieke Dench
0:00
/82.128

Title: Marieke Dench
Duration: 14:00
Year: 2021
Director/DOP: Peter M Lamont
Music: Moby

About Marieke Dench

Early Life and Background
Marieke Dench's formative years were marked by a profound engagement with the visual arts, fostering a deep appreciation for diverse artistic expressions. This early immersion laid the groundwork for her expansive and varied artistic practice.

Artistic Development and Education
Dench pursued formal art education, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Printmaking from the Victorian College of the Arts (VCA) and a First-Class Honours Degree in Fine Arts from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT). She furthered her qualifications with a Diploma in Education from the University of Melbourne, where she was recognised as Practical Teacher of the Year.

Major Works and Exhibitions
Over her career spanning more than two decades, Dench has exhibited both nationally and internationally. Notable solo exhibitions include "Comparable Consequences" at Chapman & Bailey Gallery in 2021, "Seeing Sound" in 2018, and "Swatch" in 2016. Her works are held in numerous public and private collections, including the National Gallery of Australia and the Toowoomba Regional Gallery.

Technique and Style
Dench's artistic practice is characterised by a sculptural approach to two-dimensional media, integrating painting, encaustic techniques, printmaking, and drawing. Her works often blur the line between object and concept, employing collage elements and formal concerns to create intellectually engaging pieces. This methodology reflects her ongoing interest in how humans navigate diverse situations and locales.

Legacy and Influence
Dench has received several accolades, including the Collie Trust Scholarship, the Silk Cut Award, and the Shell Fremantle Non-Acquisitive Print Award. Her contributions to the Australian art scene are significant, with her works featured in major collections and her influence extending through her roles in art education at institutions such as VCA, RMIT, and the University of Southern Queensland.

Recent Activities
In recent years, Dench has continued to exhibit her work and engage in art education. Her 2021 exhibition "Comparable Consequences" at Chapman & Bailey Gallery showcased her latest explorations in form and concept. She remains active in the Melbourne art community, contributing to both artistic practice and education.

References

  1. Marieke Dench Official Website
  2. Chapman & Bailey Gallery - Marieke Dench
  3. The Art Room - Teacher Feature: Marieke Dench
  4. Chapman & Bailey Gallery - Comparable Consequences Exhibition

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