Graduating students in Architecture, Design and Planning together showcased their ingenuity and creativity at the 2024 Graduate Exhibition – “Make Shift.”
Held on the evening of Thursday, 28 November, the student-organised exhibition not only celebrated the achievements of the graduating cohorts, but also highlighted the School’s strong focus on cross-disciplinary collaboration and what that means for students and the future of the professions.
with approaches that minimised waste while maximising public access.
This year was the first time the exhibition showcased the work of students graduating in Architecture, Design and Planning, in both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Head of School Professor Ali Cheshmehzangi said this was a significant milestone.
“The coming together of Architecture, Design and Planning in one School, and one exhibition, reflects our strong commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, and providing an education that equips our graduates with the critical thinking and capability sets required to tackle real-world challenges as they enter their profession,” he said at the exhibition opening.
“And we can certainly see the results of that in the high-quality student work showcased here tonight … The ingenuity of the student work presented in Make Shift is to be commended.
“The exhibition demonstrates how through engaged research and design, we can lead transformative change in our communities to build climate resilience, enhance health and wellbeing, and enrich society.”
The opening event was attended by more than 350 students, staff, industry supporters and guests, who took time to walk through the exhibition elements and soak up the atmosphere of creativity, community and celebration.
The “Make Shift” theme references the journey of students creating and showcasing their ideas as they shift into the next stage as professionals. Another focus of the exhibition was sustainability, highlighting approaches that minimise waste while maximising public access.
Student work was presented on biodegradable cardboard posters, ensuring the designs could be displayed beyond the event itself without compromising environmental values. Additional elements were crafted from reused or repurposed materials, such student-made lanterns, which added a sense of warmth and intimacy to the space. A large drop sheet was transformed into a projection screen, and the natural amphitheatre provided a stunning backdrop for the displayed works while reflecting the organic, adaptable nature of the Make Shift theme.
The 2024 exhibition committee was Charli Cameron, Sophia Dow, James Steadman, Zoe Xu, Lauren Stegman and Patrick Wolfe.
Professor Deborah Terry AC, Lauren Stegman,
Professor Ali Cheshmehzangi and Associate Professor Antony Moulis.
Charli Cameron, a second-year Bachelor of Design student, took on the role of design coordinator for the exhibition as she wanted to contribute to the ongoing showcasing of creative solutions and ideas within the School.
“[It was an] experience that allowed me to dive into the creative process, work closely with a team of my peers, and gain valuable insights into the collaborative nature of the design industry,” she said.
“Seeing the exhibition come to life and hearing the appreciation from attendees made all the effort worthwhile, highlighting the creativity and dedication that went into every detail.”
James Steadman said the committee and other volunteers had gone above and beyond to deliver the successful exhibition.
“Working on the grad exhibition has been a great opportunity to see the amazing work that’s taken place across ADP and celebrate the achievements of all those who’ve worked so hard this year,” he said.
“Being able to work in a cross-disciplinary team and collaborate with students, staff and industry partners has been an excellent way to ensure our work gets presented in front of key industry partners in the best way possible.”
Images from the night and a digital copy of the exhibition booklet can be accessed online here.
Thank you to the following supporters for their contributions to the Student Culture & Experience Fund: Hassell, Rothelowman, Nettleton Tribe, 77 Architecture, and Marc & Co. Special thanks to Interface.
