Craft with a Capital Sea
Annual ode to the Dry season, the Tactile Arts Dragonfly Craft Fair, returns to celebrate the creativity of Territory artisans in a showcase of handmade goodies including ceramics, jewellery, homewares, paintings, prints, textiles and more.
By Kate Conway
One of three major craft fairs for the organisation, the mid-year event is held on the sprawling lawns of the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, on the doorstep of Tactile Arts HQ.
Tactile Arts Events and Administration Coordinator Rebecca Clarke says, as well as soaking up the coastal settings and beautiful sea breezes, the location allows organisers to hold open studios and workshops in conjunction with the fair.
“People can come through and see our studios and see what we do here. It gives a more holistic understanding of the organisation, what Tactile Arts is beyond the Craft Fairs,” she says.
“We can share with the community what we have on offer, what they could learn if they came and embarked on a class here, and the facilities that are here for learning a craft or an artistic practice.”
Workshops include a session with prolific local ceramicist Cecily Willis for experienced participants, printmaking with artist Katie Bradley, and an exciting Batik class facilitated by the Indonesian Consulate.
After huge interest, stallholders were capped at 90, making it one of the biggest Dragonfly Craft Fairs to date. Among these are artisans from across the Territory, including Katherine and Alice Springs, and some first timers.
“A few of our regular studio hirers are doing their first Craft Fair. They’re people who have made ceramic products on site here at Tactile Arts, and are now selling their works at the Craft Fair, it’s pretty special,” Clarke says.
The Craft Fair has something for everyone, with children’s arts and crafts activities to keep the little ones entertained, and food and drink available from food trucks and the museum’s Saltwater Café.
For a blissful Sunday morning browsing unique and handmade treasures you won’t find anywhere else, head down to the Dragonfly Craft Fair and help support local creatives.
Tactile Arts Dragonfly Craft Fair
WHEN SUN 16 JUL | 9AM-3PM
AT MAGNT LAWNS
COST FREE
INFO tactilearts.org.au
Photos: Hosking Media
