BAINZ JEWLZ: Robert Baines returns home with dazzling show of life’s work

BAINZ JEWLZ: Robert Baines returns home with dazzling show of life’s work

RMIT Gallery’s newest exhibition, BAINZ JEWLZ, showcases the philosophically rich, the blatantly pop and the historically obscure through the strikingly original work of Robert Baines.

The exhibition will showcase Baines’ beguiling jewel creations, which were influenced by his research into ancient metal working.

Emeritus Professor Robert Baines OAM was a leading educator for over thirty years at RMIT, completing his PhD in 2006, his lifelong creative journey started as a student at RMIT in 1968. 

"Beginning as a student at RMIT and now returning with an OAM recognising my art jewellery and service to education, is a superb occasion," said Robert. 

"The exhibition is a window into a simple enquiry that became research into new places bringing further possibilities of opportunity."

"Receiving a survey of one’s life’s work in one place is quite a privilege. The exhibition is a returning to where it began and realising anticipations not considered."

Portrait of Robert Baines holding his work, Three Spheres and the Collision, 2024-25, silver, electroplate, lacquer. Image courtesy of the artist. Photo: Joanne Manariti Portrait of Robert Baines holding his work, Three Spheres and the Collision, 2024-25, silver, electroplate, lacquer. Image courtesy of the artist. Photo: Joanne Manariti

Robert Baines’ work is internationally recognised, held in prestigious collections worldwide including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and the National Gallery of Australia in Canberra.

Robert was recently awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to the creative arts, particularly as a jeweller, and to education.

"Robert is a national treasure. His strikingly original, technically brilliant work is world-renowned and RMIT is thrilled to be hosting this exhibition," said Helen Rayment, Manager of RMIT Galleries.

"As an instrumental figure in the school of goldsmithing at RMIT, Robert’s teaching has influenced countless students of RMIT’s globally recognised fine art program."

"It’s so special to show his work to his home audience, and RMIT is proud to call Robert one of our own."

BAINZ JEWLZ opens on Friday 19 September and will show until Saturday 22 November, at RMIT Gallery. Admission is free. 

11 September 2025

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11 September 2025

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