PADC names Tina Milosic as 2026 Artist in Residence to reimagine iconic Gold Skull

The Perth Advertising and Design Club (PADC), in partnership with North Metropolitan TAFE, has announced local designer and artist Tina Milosic as its 2026 Artist in Residence. Introduced in 2024, the annual program invites a new artist to reimagine one of WA’s most recognised symbols of creative excellence, the iconic PADC Gold Skull.

Selected for her distinctive creative approach, exceptional eye for design and strong appreciation of craft, Milosic will create a new interpretation of the iconic trophy to be awarded to Gold Skull winners at this year’s PADC Skulls Awards.

The Artist in Residence program transforms the Gold Skull into a living canvas, inviting a different Western Australian artist or designer each year to bring their own creative perspective to its design.

The Gold Skull, originally designed by former PADC president Mark Braddock, and was reimagined in 2024 by Kevin Wilson and Eric Schneider. It established the iconic form that has become synonymous with creative excellence in WA. Last year, designer and artist Ross Scotland became the program’s inaugural Artist in Residence, bringing his own distinctive interpretation to the trophy through a meticulously hand-painted design. Milosic now follows in their footsteps, adding the next chapter to the evolving story of the Gold Skull.

“I can’t wait to get started on this year’s Skull,” says Milosic. “Rather than just crafting a ‘trophy’, my goal is to create a sculpture that feels like a real celebration of creativity. Being able to rely on TAFE’s facilities and technical guidance gives me the support I need to make something unique.”

“Tina’s work immediately stood out to us. She has an incredible eye for detail, design and craft, and there’s a real thoughtfulness and originality to the way she approaches her work,” said PADC Co-President Dan Agostino.

The initiative, developed in collaboration with North Metropolitan TAFE, aims to build stronger connections between education and industry while providing artists and designers with an opportunity to showcase their talent through a significant industry project.

Brendan Hibbert, Head of Program of the Visual Arts at North Metropolitan TAFE, said: “It is a golden opportunity for Tina to develop a series of true experiments that celebrates not only the creative process, but TAFE’s hands-on, skills-enhancing workshop spaces. Great for students. Great for industry.”

Milosic’s Gold Skull will be revealed at the 2026 PADC Skulls Awards with each gold winner taking home a piece created specifically for this year’s awards. It will also be featured in a film proudly produced by Matty Limpus and the team at Sandbox Productions.

The 2026 PADC Skulls Awards will be held at The Perth Town Hall on Friday, 13th November 2026.

View last year’s film below.