From 11 April to 8 May 2025, Van Cleef & Arpels will present its distinguished exhibition, The Art of Movement: Living Instants, Eternal Forms, at Watersedge at Campbell’s Stores in Sydney, Australia.

A Landmark Debut in Oceania

In a momentous occasion for the Southern Hemisphere, Van Cleef & Arpels brings its world-renowned exhibition The Art of Movement to Sydney, unveiling a spellbinding display of artistry, refinement, and poetic craftsmanship. Hosted at Watersedge at Campbell’s Stores in The Rocks—an exquisite heritage setting overlooking Sydney Harbour—the exhibition will be on view through to May 8, 2025. It marks the Maison’s very first presentation on Oceanic shores, offering discerning audiences a rare opportunity to encounter its legacy of jewellery imbued with life and lyricism.

Jewellery That Comes to Life

The Art of Movement is a visual symphony that transcends conventional jewellery displays. It presents more than 100 exceptional creations from Van Cleef & Arpels’ patrimonial collection, many of which span nearly a century—from the 1920s through to the early 2000s. Each piece, a masterwork of technical virtuosity and imagination, is accompanied by archival sketches and gouache illustrations that illuminate the creative journey behind these timeless treasures.

These jewels are not simply beautiful objects—they are expressions of vitality and grace. Through expert craftsmanship, Van Cleef & Arpels breathes movement into gold and gemstone, creating compositions that seem to shimmer, sway, and pirouette with eternal elegance.

Exploring the Four Themes of Movement

The exhibition is divided into four distinct themes, guiding guests through the many interpretations of motion in jewellery.

Human Odyssey

Celebrating the beauty of the human form in motion, this section pays homage to dance, particularly the Maison’s enduring fascination with ballet. Among the highlights is the 1946 Sequin Dancer clip—a radiant vision in yellow gold, turquoise, and rubies. Captured mid-pose, the dancer’s sculpted form and glimmering skirt evoke not just movement, but emotion suspended in time.

Nature Alive

Here, the natural world is reimagined in precious form. Floral motifs, delicate foliage, and the flutter of wings are exquisitely rendered in gemstones and precious metals. The 1942 Fern clip is a luminous example—crafted in platinum and yellow gold, set with brilliant-cut diamonds, it radiates a sense of quiet vitality, as if stirred by a gentle breeze.

Elegance

This chapter explores the Maison’s affinity for couture-inspired design, showcasing the fluidity of ribbons, tassels, and draped forms. The 1941 Double Clip, a masterful arrangement of diamonds and sapphires, captures the light with an effortless sparkle, embodying the flowing lines and graceful silhouettes found in fine haute couture.

Abstract Movements

Pushing the boundaries of form and expression, this final theme ventures into the world of modernism and abstraction. Here, the Maison interprets movement through bold geometry and negative space. The 1937 Silhouette clip, composed of sleek yellow gold threads, appears both architectural and organic—a tribute to movement not just as a gesture, but as an idea.

Enriching Encounters Beyond the Showcase

The exhibition offers more than visual splendour—it invites participation and discovery. On weekends, the Maison hosts creative workshops for children led by esteemed paper artist Benja Harney. These sessions, inspired by the themes of the exhibition, encourage young imaginations to explore the artistry of motion through hands-on design.

In addition, two exclusive talks—curated in partnership with L’ÉCOLE School of Jewellery Arts—delve deeper into the Maison’s artistic heritage. These events provide an enriching opportunity to explore the history, inspiration, and technical mastery behind Van Cleef & Arpels’ creations.

A Setting Steeped in Elegance and Heritage

Nestled within the storied architecture of Campbell’s Stores, the exhibition finds its home in one of Sydney’s most iconic historic precincts. With sweeping harbour views and sandstone walls imbued with character, the venue offers a fittingly refined backdrop for a collection that bridges the worlds of legacy and innovation.

Admission and Visiting Details

The Art of Movement is open to the public with complimentary admission—a rare gesture of generosity from a maison of such stature. While walk-ins are welcomed, advance reservations are encouraged, particularly for guided tours and workshop access. The exhibition is open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, with final entry at 5:15pm.

An Ode to Beauty, Poetry, and Motion

With The Art of Movement, Van Cleef & Arpels has orchestrated a sublime celebration of movement in its most poetic form. From the flutter of a leaf to the twirl of a ballerina, each creation captures an ephemeral moment and transforms it into something eternal—crafted not only with precious materials, but with soul.

This is not simply an exhibition. It is an invitation into the Maison’s universe—where elegance is in constant motion, and jewellery becomes a living art form. For lovers of design, beauty, and refined artistry, The Art of Movement is a cultural experience of exceptional grace and rarity.

Written By: Lauren Archer

Published: 11th April 2025