OUR STORY . THE SOCIETY OF ARTS AND CRAFTS OF NSW

ESTABLISHED 1906

Our Society has a long and complex history. We were founded in 1906 when a group of six crafts people gathered for afternoon tea and a discussion on the future of arts and crafts in Australia, the initial subscription was one shilling and a fine of sixpence was imposed on members who failed to exhibit work.

AUSTRALIAN HANDCRAFT

In 1906 Australia's supply of materials and equipment was dependent on English imports. But these six had a home grown objective, to develop and foster uniquely Australian handcrafts in both design and material. And for over one hundred years groups of like-minded crafts men and women have persisted.

OUR CRAFTMAKERS

Many of our craftmakers are members of craft guilds and work as teachers or administrators of their craft. Some members work is held in public collections: the National Gallery, the Art Gallery of NSW and the Powerhouse Museum. Today, the Society's historical documents are stored in the Mitchell Library.

We continue to seek out the work of past members but no longer have to fine our members sixpence for failure to exhibit their craftwork. In fact, they always surprise with their enthusiasm in adapting new materials and technologies to the traditions of Australian handcraft.

MORE THAN THIRTY YEARS OF ART AND CRAFT AT THE ROCKS

We moved to The Rocks in the mid 70's, with our very first gallery in Harrington Street.  Telopea Gallery Craft at The Rocks and Australian Image Craft at The Rocks followed, and now our latest gallery, Craft NSW situated in the heritage listed Old Coroners Court.

If you'd like to read a little more of our history, or if you'd like to see the results please browse our site, or come and visit us. And if you would like to tell a friend about our site or exchange a link, we would appreciate it. In 2006 we became Australia's oldest handcraft organisation.