Irene Barberis

Dr. Irene Barberis is a Senior Lecturer in Drawing and International Research at RMIT University's School of Art. She is the Founding Director of Metasenta Pty. Ltd., an international arts research hub connecting universities, artists, and global communities. Her work spans painting, installation, and new media, focusing on intercultural dialogues and art-science collaborations. Barberis holds a PhD from Victoria University and an MFA from Melbourne University VCA.

Research & Projects:

• The Tapestry of Light: A 36-meter jacquard tapestry using nano-pigments, exploring apocalyptic themes (ongoing since 1998).
• The LeWitt Project: Investigating the legacy of Sol LeWitt through global exhibitions and publications (2019–ongoing).
• Metasenta initiatives: Including The Global Centre for Drawing, Gallery Langford120, and international residencies.

Awards: Honorary Research Fellowship (University of Dundee), Vera Moore Foundation Grants, residencies at the British School at Rome, and major commissions including The Tapestry of Light exhibitions at Canterbury Cathedral and Brussels.

Teaching & Leadership: Co-founded RMIT's Drawing program (1998), Head of Drawing (mid-2000s), and oversees offshore programs in Hong Kong. Her teaching emphasizes global collaboration and intercultural exchange.