How are traditional trades applied in contemporary conservation and creative practice?
Step inside Tasma Terrace, the recently conserved head office of the National Trust, for an evening conversation exploring how traditional skills continue to shape living heritage.
This panel discussion brings together lead-lighting practitioners, including Eloise McCullough of Fools Glass and Dr Bronwyn Hughes from GLAAS Inc., to share knowledge, showcase their work, and discuss how these specialist skills are applied in conservation projects and the adaptive reuse of heritage places and objects.
Framed by the Australian Heritage Festival theme Change, the discussion will explore how craft traditions evolve, how stories are reinterpreted through making, and why traditional skills remain vital to a sustainable future. A key focus will be on encouraging the next generation into these trades—highlighting what the work involves, why it matters, and how these skills can be sustained over time.
Eloise’s own practice offers a compelling example of how artistic expression and traditional technical expertise can come together, playing a critical role in both heritage conservation and the creation of contemporary works that enrich historic places.
Following the panel discussion, small guided tours will be available of Tasma Terrace’s ground floor. Tours will highlight the recently conserved spaces within the shop and gallery, led by National Trust Conservation Manager, Alyce McCue.
Panellists
Eloise McCullough has a background in graphic design and experience across the architecture and interior design industries, shaping a contemporary approach to her practice. After completing a Certificate III in Glass and Glazing at Melbourne Polytechnic, she founded Fools Glass, offering leadlight repair and restoration alongside workshops and specialist glass consultation.
Eloise is particularly drawn to creating bold statement works, characterised by layered textures, eclectic colour palettes, and a willingness to challenge traditional leadlight conventions.
Dr Bronwyn Hughes OAM is an art historian, specialist lecturer and writer on Australia’s stained glass. She is a prominent advocate for glass in contemporary architecture, and for the conservation of historic glass through the Public Art Committee of NTAV and the volunteer, not-for-profit organisation GLAAS Inc.
Anna Foley (moderator) is a Member of the Heritage Council of Victoria and has a background in botany, ecology, planning, heritage, and community engagement. She is chair of the National Parks Advisory Council, chairs an RMIT Industry Advisory Committee and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Anna also works part-time at Trust for Nature, working with private landholders to protect Victoria’s natural wonders forever.
Prior to this role Anna was the Conservation Manager at the National Trust, advocating for natural and cultural heritage protection.
This event is supported by the Heritage Council Victoria and presented as part of the Australian Heritage Festival 2026.
Please note: Access to Tasma Terrace requires the use of stairs, which cannot be avoided.
