Indigenous artists from Australia and New Zealand are being encouraged to showcase their welded artworks on a global stage as part of the International Institute of Welding (IIW) 2025 Digital Collection Welded Art Photographic Exhibition: Progressing Biodiversity.
The initiative, led by Weld Australia and HERA, aims to highlight the cultural significance of biodiversity through Indigenous perspectives, Weld Australia said in a news release.
Selected works will be featured in the IIW Annual Assembly, set to take place in Genoa, Italy, from 22 to 27 June 2025, providing a platform for artists to share their heritage and connection to the natural world.
Geoff Crittenden, CEO of Weld Australia, described the exhibition as a rare opportunity for Indigenous artists to gain international recognition.
“Welding is so much more than a trade—it is an art form, a tool for storytelling, and a way to connect with history and culture. This exhibition is about celebrating Indigenous creativity and showcasing the powerful connection between welding, culture, and biodiversity,” Crittenden said.
He noted that the IIW Digital Collection would offer global exposure for selected artworks, which will be displayed at the Annual Assembly and promoted through the institute’s international networks.
Since its inception in 2019, the IIW welded art photographic exhibitions have demonstrated that welding extends beyond technical applications into artistic expression.
The exhibition serves as a non-competitive platform, welcoming participation from professional welders, hobbyists, students, blacksmiths, and educators.
Crittenden underscored the cultural importance of the exhibition’s theme, stating that biodiversity is central to Indigenous traditions and knowledge.
“Biodiversity is at the heart of Indigenous culture—caring for Country is a responsibility passed down through generations. By incorporating this theme into welded art, we hope to spark conversations about sustainability, environmental protection, and the importance of Indigenous knowledge in protecting ecosystems,” he said.
Artists interested in participating are required to submit high-quality photographs of their welded artworks, accompanied by a 200-word description, a photo of the artist, and a short biography.
Entries must be submitted online by 5pm on Friday, 25 April 2025.
A selection panel from Weld Australia and HERA will review all submissions, choosing one artist from Australia and one from New Zealand to represent the region in the IIW 2025 exhibition.
“This is more than an exhibition—it’s a movement to recognise and celebrate Indigenous talent in the welding industry. We’re calling on Indigenous artists to share their stories, inspire others, and be part of something truly extraordinary,” Crittenden said.
Further details and submission guidelines are available at Weld Australia’s website.
