May We Always Shine In Places That Need More Tenderness Brooch by Thao Bui
Only Once - Contemporary Jewellery Exhibition 2026
Rayon thread, oxidised sterling silver.
114 x 37mm.
‘May We Always Shine in Places That Need More Tenderness’ brooch is one of two pieces in a series inspired by a poem written by the artist called “A memory of being”
The brooch explores tenderness within and between us, and the difficulty of finding it reflected back. It suggests that tenderness may exist closer than expected, to recognise and extend what is already present, however small, into spaces that need it.
The form is rayon thread, which is sculpted and stitched onto oxidised sterling silver.
Thao Bui is a mixed media jewellery artist based in Narrm (Melbourne). Thao's practice investigates personal and cultural memory, weaving fragmented histories into a unified yet non-linear narrative.
Drawing on her interdisciplinary background Thao explores complex and sensitive themes through wearable forms. Her practice is grounded in material experimentation, working across textiles and precious metals. Thao completed an Advanced Diploma in Jewellery and Object Design at Melbourne Polytechnic in 2024. She was a participant in Craft Victoria’s Fresh! Fellowship in 2025 and was selected for exhibition at Romania Jewellery Week the same year.
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