The NIDA Expo is a highly anticipated annual exhibition showcasing the extraordinary talent of NIDA’s graduating students from the Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) Costume, Props and Effects, and Set Construction Technologies courses. From 6 – 20 November, the Nancy Fairfax Foyer will be transformed into a thoughtfully curated display of intricate, fantastical, and awe-inspiring works crafted by graduating third-year students.
This exhibition is presented in conjunction with NIDA’s 2024 Spring Production Season, the perfect synergy between storytelling on stage and the artistry that makes it possible. Each handcrafted project selected for display highlights the unique skills and creative journeys of these future industry leaders, showcasing years of hands-on training in preparation for their professional careers. QR codes are placed throughout the exhibition, providing visitors with quick access to more information, portfolios, and contact details of the artists.
The NIDA Expo was designed, made and managed by graduating Props and Effects students Alexander Mills and Grace McCann. They shared, ‘this is a space to create, to inspire, and to discover. Take your time to get to know the artists behind the art, and we hope you enjoy the NIDA Expo, 2024!’
These are just some of the works visitors can expect to see:
Course Leader and Head of Costume, Corinne Heskett, expressed her pride and excitement in the results of the student’s hard work, ‘It is my pleasure to share with you a glimpse into the three-year journey of the Costume 3 cohort of 2024. These students have cultivated strong collaboration skills, particularly with costume designers on various NIDA productions. These collaborations have enriched their learning and have forged connections with their future colleagues.’
Third-year Costume student Jaspa Frankish’s research project Glinda the ‘Good’ demonstrated how costume design can be used to influence how an audience perceives the witch archetype in film and television. Jaspa will also display, 1930’s Oscars Dress, Elizabeth’s Gown (NIDA student production of Frankenstein, 2024), Portrait of a Lady Character, Taronga Zoo Opening and Fairy Doll.
Third-year Costume Student Kit Moore’s research project The Bard explored the intricacies involved in creating historical fantasy costumes utilising modern fabrications and techniques. Kit will also display, The Coronation of Poppea (NIDA’s student production of The Coronation of Poppea, 2023), Frankenstein’s Vest (NIDA’s student production of Frankenstein, 2024), Portrait of a Lady, Taronga Zoo Opening and Jack in the Box.
Third-year Costume student Giulia Zanardo’s research project Leocorno Costume of the Palio Di Siena investigated the history, fabrics and construction of the Renaissance costume of the Leocorno flag bearer at the horse race, The Palio Di Siena, and created a theatre costume inspired by this historical garment. Giulia will also display, Justine’s Dress (NIDA’s student production of Frankenstein, 2024), Headwear, 1870’s Florence Opera Bustle, Taronga Zoo Opening and Abandoned Toy Puppet.
Third-year Costume student Danielle Schache’s research project Sugar Plum Fairy sought to unveil and replicate the methods used to construct professional dancewear with industry-standard tools and materials. Danielle will also display, 1930’s Oscar Dress, 1880’s Corset, Portrait of a Lady, Taronga Zoo Opening and Wind-up Doll.
Third-year Costume student Sam Hernandez’s research project Couture to Costume looked to high fashion in the 1950’s with the purpose of recreating a couture dress as a wearable stage costume. Sam will also display, Tailor Jacket (NIDA’s student production of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, 2023), March of the Falsettos (NIDA student production of Falsettos, 2022), Portrait of a Lady, Taronga Zoo Opening and Dancewear and Art Finishing.
Course Leader and Head of Props and Effects, Marcelo Zavala-Baeza, reflects on the achievements of this year’s graduating cohort, ‘For three years, this group has shown immense dedication, creativity, and resilience—working late nights, developing their skills, and collaborating across disciplines. It’s been an honour to watch their growth, both professionally and as individuals ready to make a lasting impact. They will be missed, but I’m excited to see what they achieve next.’
Third-year Props and Effects student Freyja Meany’s research project Wattle the Wallaby explored the symbiotic relationship between puppet making, puppet performance and audience reception, using various techniques and fabrications to give her delightful puppet life-like qualities. Freyja will also display, Bygul and Trjegul, Annette, Azzea’s Garments, Satchel & Tech, Happybara (film), Charcuterie, Sangria & Crab and Darwin (film).
Third-year Props and Effects student Alexander Mills research project Halo Spartan Helmet looked at how practical effects enhance the performative potential of specialty costumes with mechanical elements, lights, fog and a voice modulator controlled within the gauntlet. Alex will also display, The Thunderbird, Sofa Chair, Azzea’s Helmet & Boots, You Can Always Find Me (film), Sweet Rolls & Sourtoe Cocktail and Effingo (film).
Third-year Props and Effects student Grace McCann’s research project Faces in Places analysed face pareidolia in nature and objects by creating a series of masks built into a handcrafted environment that can be removed and worn. Grace will also display, I Spy (film), I Spy model, Naked, Azzea’s Belt, Polypus Soup and Meevin (film).
Third-year Props and Effects student Georgia Raczkowski’s research project Narnia Diorama examined the key considerations when translating a narrative from film to a diorama medium by integrating 2D and 3D elements. Georgia will also display, The Hand of Enki, Marionette Puppet, Azzea’s Chest Plate, Pauldrons & Arm Brace, The Nymph & The Knight (film), Strawberry & Blood Tart and Parra.
Third-year Props and Effects student Caleb Jackson’s research project The Watchmaker Who Saved Christmas explored how digital processes can be used to preserve the handmade charm of stop-motion animation by merging virtual production with modelmaking techniques. Caleb will also display, Fox & Fahrenheit (film), Great Seal of the United States (NIDA student production of 21 Chump Street, 2023), Azzea’s Arm, Fox & Fahrenheit (model), Herb-crusted Lamb & Pale Ale and Torm (film).
Third-year Props and Effects student Samantha Yue Ting Lim’s research project Transcendence merged physical objects with augmented reality, studying symbols of life and the deceased in Chinese culture through the lens of Taoism. Samantha will also display, Naga, Triangular, Azzea’s Swip, Ataraxia!? (film), Pink-balled Fruit and Michelle (film).
Course Leader and Head of Set Construction Technologies, Nicholas Day, had high praise for his student, ‘Nathan has shown tenacity as one of an original 2022 cohort of four and reaching the end of the set Construction Technologies course. We wish Nathan success following his graduation and look forward to him returning to speak to undergraduates of his experiences and learnings as part of the global NIDA alumni diaspora.’
Third-year Set Construction Technologies student Nathan Lockyer will present his research project Grogu as part of the NIDA Expo. A collage of Nathan’s set construction projects and productions from 2022 – 2024 will be displayed including, The Seagull, 2022, Falsettos, 2022, Machinal, 2022, The Coronation of Poppea, 2023, Ephemera, 2023, 21 Chump Street, 2023 and 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, 2024.
