PETER GERTLER
GOLD & SILVERSMITH
Trained at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Peter Gertler has established himself as one of Australia’s foremost creative silversmiths. Peter’s constant objective is to produce work that is both technically and aesthetically refined. Characteristic of his work is the elegant simplicity achieved in contrasting of gold against silver, which helps to emphasise form and express difference in textures. Gold and other precious elements enable Peter to utilise techniques that would not be possible with non-precious materials. For Peter, functionality is paramount, and he is a firm believer in the idea that a form should always speak for itself. He favours objects that are tactile, that can be carried, and played with in the hand. His pieces are designed to express themselves visually, appealing to each individual on a different level.
Since the mid-1970’s Peter has been producing work from his own studio, and has exhibited widely in Australia and overseas. He has been commissioned on numerous occasions to make commemorative, award and ecclesiastic pieces. His work has been collected by the National Gallery of Australia, Powerhouse Museum, Sydney, and the Parliament House Art Collection.
Peter Gertler has established a strong relationship with the Victorian Racing Club and Melbourne Racing Club, producing numerous racing trophies for the Spring Racing Carnival and other annual events. Peter has also been sought out for commissioned work by the Australian Government and Governor General.