Craft ACT: Craft + Design Centre: 2006 Annual Report

Annual Report
2006
Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre
1st Floor North Building 180 London Circuit Canberra ACT
PO Box 992 Civic Square ACT 2608 Tel: (02) 6262 9333 Fax: (02) 6262 9666
Gallery hours: Tuesday – Friday 10 am – 4 pm Saturday- Sunday 12 pm - 4pm
Office Hours: Monday - Friday 9.30 am - 5 pm.
ABN: 33 314 092 587
Member of ACDC, Australia Craft Design Centres Network
Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre is supported by the Visual Arts and Craft Strategy,
an initiative of the Australian Government and all state and territory governments. Craft
ACT: Craft and Design Centre is supported by the ACT Government and the Australia
Council, the Federal Government's arts funding and advisory body
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PRESIDENT'S REPORT
The 2006 Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre Annual Report records a year of exhibition and
promotion activity which represents its role in the cultural environment of Canberra and the
region, and demonstrates its achievements through its programs and activities.
Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre was a recipient of the Visual Art and Craft Strategy, a joint
initiative of the federal and state and territory governments to address the urgent shortfalls in
funding to Australia’s creatively rich visual art and craft cultural sector. Craft ACT: Craft and
Design Centre received an increase of up to approximately 25% funding, this increase has had
significant impact upon Craft ACT’s capacity to deliver a dynamic and responsive program of
exhibitions and activities for audiences and artists alike. The organisation has been able to
expand public programs, introduce artist’s talks, run forums and engage directly with the
community.
The financial position of Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre has improved over the last three
year period and the activities that represents excellent return for the investment by local and
federal government agencies. The organisation continues to devote attention and limited funds
to its infrastructure systems to improve services to its members, artists, and audiences thereby
contributing to Canberra and its local culture. Craft ACT’s proactive management supports its
strong public presence; enables it to make headway in the ever evolving technological
environment which directly benefits artists, audiences and Craft ACT members; it has boosted
its capacity to create and take part in a wider variety of community cultural activities.
Developing the web site is an important step forward and striving for excellence in exhibitions,
publications, advertising and promotion are crucial. Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre is
experiencing a period of vitality and recognition for its initiatives and participation in the local
cultural life of Canberra.
The Craft ACT Management Committee and staff are committed to working with its business
plan, addressing and reviewing this plan to competently meet new opportunities and reflect on
its initiatives and strategies.
Staff
The staff at Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre have worked as a professional and committed
team. Craft ACT nurtured a new intern, Ann Crowther, as part of its commitment to develop
and contribute to the sector.
Barbara McConchie is currently the Executive Director of Craft ACT, a position she has held for
over three years. As Executive Director Barbara has implemented new programs for Craft ACT
with the significant assistance of the Visual Art and Craft Strategy funding including: extending
memberships; created more opportunities for hosting exhibitions in alternative locations around
Canberra; has directed unique programs for audience development; has promoted local artists
through new exhibitions and international opportunities; new media strategies and is in the
process of developing a website that will offer extensive promotion and marketing potential for
Craft ACT’s Accredited Professional Members; she has completed an extensive review and
redevelopment of the Accredited Professional Membership program ensuring a relevant and
purposeful program for these members. Barbara has worked strategically with the Craft ACT
Management Committee to develop three year Business Plans for Craft ACT. She regularly
liaises with the organisations funding partners, develops and continues existing relationships
with local, interstate and international arts organisations.
Jason Hugonnet has been with Craft ACT from late 2003 and continues in the role of Curator
of Exhibitions. Jason manages over 35 exhibitions per year across five sites and deals with
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approximately 150 artists. He overseas and completes the management of incoming touring
and local exhibitions, installation, display, and insurance and the management of the part time
exhibition installation staff. Jason has streamlined exhibition procedures and paperwork,
organised all storage areas and installation equipment and contributed to the design of gallery
furniture and office layout. A major component of his current role is to produce written essays
on artist’s work exhibition at Craft ACT. He also delivers a public role by delivering exhibition
opening speeches and professional development lectures for artists. He has developed strong
partnerships representing Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre annually at the Australian Craft
Design Centres (ACDC) curator’s meeting and with other stakeholders of the organisation.
Diana Campbell has been with Craft ACT from July 2005 and continues in the role of the
Curator of Public Programs. Diana is dedicated to providing the members of Craft ACT and
general public with an interesting and diverse experience of the exhibition program through the
development and implementation of public programs. In 2006 the public programs grew to
incorporate new programs tailored to specific membership groups and in response to
suggestions by members which led to Craft ACT partnering with other local groups. She prides
herself on developing relationships with all members, and is always willing to listen to their
thoughts and feedback and actively follow through with assistance. She is also dedicated to
forging relationships with local institutions, schools, universities and groups to continue to
develop new public programs and with local and national media representatives to promote
Craft ACT and its programs. She has developed key relationships which have led to new
programs, for example the product launch of the Bocket by Imogen Keen and the Department
of the Exterior, and increased exposure of exhibitions and events.
Alice Macdonald administers all the financial requirements of a gallery retail outlet, grant
auspicing, project finances, financial acquittals and all the day to day procedures of a thriving
community not for profit entity. Alice has a degree in sculpture from the Australian National
University School of Art and is currently undertaking Advanced Diploma of Accounting studies.
As a result of her pursuits Alice has instigated administrative and accounting management
procedures which are tailor made for an arts organisation. Alice is engaged constructively in
decision making, planning, controlling and reporting, competently implemented the streamlining
of Craft ACT’s finances and has been strategic in the smooth sailing of internal cost
management, an absolute must for an organisations with very limited resources such as Craft
ACT.
Julie Ryder, Sally Mussett and Sarah Hilyard shared the role of Gallery Assistants working on
the weekend at Craft ACT. Julie is a practising textile artist and designer and Sally is a
contemporary jeweller. Sarah was a student at the ANU School of Art in the ceramics
department. All three assistants have contributed to managing the membership, mail out
databases, media and publications records for the organisation in a timely and efficient
manner. All assistants work hard to ensure the audience visitors to the Craft ACT Gallery on
the weekend are welcomed and any queries answered.
Alex Asch is our casual Installation Assistant working with Jason Hugonnet. Alex is a thorough
and competent assistant and is invaluable to the artists showing with Craft ACT. He is a great
asset to the Craft ACT staff team.
A special thank you and welcome to all the new staff for your generosity, hard work and
commitment often over long hours to get the job done. I would also like to note that the
Management Committee has the upmost confidence in all of the staff members and their
abilities and would like to extend its thanks for great team work over the past year.
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Role of the Board and Governance
‣ Management Committee
• The Craft ACT Management Committee is elected annually at the organisations AGM. The
Management Committee overseas the management of the organisation through setting a
vision and goals for the organisation.
• In this expansive overview the Management Committee works closely with the Executive
Director to fulfil and monitor the function of the organisation. The Management Committee
in its breadth of skill and knowledge will assist the organisation in achieving its vision and
goals.
• The Management Committee will meet not less than once in every 2 months in carrying
out its duties.
• The staff of the organisation may attend these meetings to present relevant reports, but
maybe excluded when appropriate.
• The Management Committee acts on behalf of and represents the organisations to
stakeholders where appropriate.
COMMITTEE MEMBER/
RESPONSIBILITIES
Valerie Kirk
Special responsibilities:
President
Member of the Accredited
Professional Members sub
committee and the Staff Review
committee
Joanne Searle
Special responsibilities: Vice
President
Member of the Exhibitions sub
committee and the Publications
sub committee.
Ann Jakle
Special responsibilities: Secretary
Member of the Philanthropic sub
committee and Exhibitions sub
committee.
Sharon Komidar
Special responsibilities:
Treasurer
Member of the Staff Review
committee
Jonathan Everett
Special responsibilities:
Member of the Accredited
Professional Members sub
committee
Alison Munro
Special responsibilities:
Member of the Exhibitions sub
committee, the Publications sub
committee and the Strategic
Planning sub committee
Stephen Trathen
Special responsibilities:
Member of the Philanthropic sub
SKILLS/EXPERIENCE
In 1991 Kirk was appointed Head of Textiles at the ANU School of Art. She
initiated major textiles projects Shift and Challenging ideas of cloth, and
continues to exhibition nationally and internationally, as well as completing
an MA (Hons) with the University of Wollongong. Kirk has been guest
lecturer with Textile tours to Vietnam and Lao PDR. She has lectured on
Vietnamese textiles at the Asian Arts Society and the National Gallery of
Australia. Her achievements have been recognised through the Canberra
Times Art Critics Award, 1998.
Emerging ceramic artist, exhibiting widely both nationally and Internationally,
including the 53rd Premio Ceramics Award in Faenza, Italy. Joanne is an
Associate Lecturer and Coordinator of Distance Ceramics at the ANU,
School of Art.
Ann completed a Liberal Arts undergraduate degree and continued her
studies at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in Art History and
Sculpture graduate programs. She has worked as an intern for Grace
Cochrane at the Powerhouse Museum on the Klaus Moje retrospective,
been a consultant to Sydney’s architectural and design community on
corporate fit-outs, as a volunteer and advocate in Canberra and finally as
studio manager for Richard Whiteley Cast Glass. Ann is currently the
Director of Canberra Glassworks.
Research assistant to Emeritus Professor David Williams and author
Michael Agostino. For 15 yrs Manager of the Institute Supply Shop at the
Australian National University. A thorough knowledge of financial
management incorporating all the shops day to day financial activities and
its annual financial accounting and audit processes.
Contemporary furniture designer/maker for 15 years, exhibiting nationally
and internationally. He has been a visiting lecturer and undertaken
residencies at many major institutions. Co-founder of the enterprise TROUT
DESIGN and currently Acting Senior Design Integrity Officer, Department of
Parliamentary Services
15 years experience in a broad range of marketing and public affairs
activities in the visual arts and Government sectors, including the planning,
management and implementation of marketing and education programs,
publicity materials, publications, web sites, open days and other stakeholder
events. Professional art practice focussing on print and paper-based media
and regularly exhibiting in Australia and overseas.
Deputy Head of School/Senior Lecture, School of Design & Architecture,
University of Canberra. Stephen has worked as an industrial Design
consultant to a number of Australian firms including Australian Optical Fibre
YEAR
2002
2004
2003
2006
2004
2005
2005
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committee, the Staff Review
committee and the Strategic
Planning committee
Bill Wood
Special responsibilities:
Member of the Philanthropic sub
committee
Cynthia Breheny
Special responsibilities:
Member of the Management
Committee
Ross Feller
Special responsibilities: Member
of the Exhibition sub committee
Charles Higgins
Special responsibilities:
Philanthropic sub committee
Barbara McConchie
Ex Officio
research, Fyshwick, and Minale, Tattersfield, Brisbane QLD.
Bill Wood was a member of the ACT Legislative Assembly for 15 years. As 2005
Minister for Arts in the Government he was instrumental in the development
of the Canberra Museum and Gallery and the Tuggeranong Community Arts
centres. He has a passion and for and is an active participant of the arts in
Canberra.
Self employed Architect, Member of the Board of Architects of the ACT 2006
RAIA Archicentre. Cynthia has travelled extensively working as an architect
and brings architecture and design skills, plus a broader outlook of ACT
cultural activities to the Craft ACT Management Committee.
Architect, Exhibition Designer Artist 2002
Lawyer with five years of previous work history in the arts industry and
currently employed in the Department of Finance and Administration
Executive Director, Craft ACT
Curator, arts worker for the past 10 years
2004
2003
The Craft ACT Constitution sets out the following rules:
Clause 21. Vacancies
21. (8) [A vacancy occurs if a member] is absent without the consent of the Management
Committee for 3 successive meetings.
Clause 23. Committee meeting and Quorum
23. (1) The Management Committee will meet not less than once in every 2 months in each
year at such place and time as the Management Committee may determine.
Each member of the Management Committee met the condition of clause 21 (8), and ten
meetings were held over the period January to December 2006. There was no meeting in
January or July 2006.
Being President of Craft ACT has not been an onerous task as the organisation has run very
smoothly in the last two years that I have been president. This has largely been due to the
dedication, skills and hard work of the staff and board and their positive interactions with the
membership and craft/design community.
It has been an exciting and dynamic time to be involved with Craft ACT as there have been
many changes addressing contemporary issues, the needs of the broad membership, our
funding bodies and public audience. Change is important as otherwise we stand still and
eventually go backwards. I have personally enjoyed and been stimulated by the new
partnerships of Craft and Design, Craft and Contemporary Art, Craft and Performance and
others presented at Craft ACT.
Established makers excelling in their fields have exhibited the highest standard of Craft and
new practitioners exploring possibilities have challenged our expected norms. However, I am
happy to hand over the President’s baton and look forward to the extra time in my schedule.
Thank you to everyone who has provided support and assistance.
With thanks,
Valerie Kirk
President Craft ACT
5

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS REPORT
Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre (Craft ACT) is an established and successful arts
organisation in the heart of Canberra. As a professional arts organisation promoting
contemporary craft, design and object making to the diverse audiences of Canberra and its
region, Craft ACT is a recipient of significant multiyear funding by the ACT Government and
triennial funding from the Australia Council.
In 2003 Craft ACT was identified as a recipient of the Visual Art and Craft Strategy (VACS)
funding. With a series of increments 2004-2005 and 2005-2006 Craft ACT’s VACS funding is
currently at $65,000. This investment by both the local and federal Governments has ensured
that Craft ACT continues to be a site for audiences to come and engage with the visual arts
sector, and enjoy Canberra’s deserved reputation as a power house of progressive
contemporary craft, object design and making, and exciting philosophical and theoretical
engagement.
Craft ACT reiterates that the new model of aligning both local government multiyear and
federal government triennial funding requirements has improved and streamlined the
organisations ability to be achieve its goals, be cost effective and be able to effectively plan
ahead for a mature and secure future. Over the past three years Craft ACT has been in a
position to better resource its internal management and fiscal position.
Under the auspices of the VACS funding representing 25% of its annual funding in 2006, Craft
ACT has increased its resources, augmenting staffing hours to maintain the developments
made in 2005. This has resulted in sustained support for the sector, an improved marketing
and communications presence of the organisation and its programs, and enhanced its ability to
gain further recognition for the artists and activities that it supports.
• Craft ACT has an ongoing commitment to its exhibition program, ensuring a stimulating
and diverse program of both emerging and established artists, of local and interstate
origin, providing excellent galley facilities that are premium in the country.
• Craft ACT has diversified its advertising and promotion and developed strategies to
streamline communications through electronic media.
• Craft ACT continues to liaise with other local and interstate arts organisations and
national institutions to establish opportunities for projects and cross promotion.
During 2006 the immediate physical environment of Craft ACT was interrupted with the
development of the new ACT Civic Library building in Civic Square and the relocation and
development of the ACT Multicultural Centre on the floor above Craft ACT. These building
works were an interruption for Craft ACT, and at one stage the building façade around Craft
ACT’s doorway was hidden behind scaffolding as the new signage was installed. Unfortunately
Craft ACT did note a drop in attendance at various times during this period, it ended with a
positive outcome as Craft ACT was provided with significant new signage. My thanks goes to
Conrad Moore of Munns + Sly Architects and to Vic Rebikoff Senior Multicultural Adviser
Office of Multicultural Affairs for their generosity in supporting Craft ACT and working closely
with us as a key stakeholder in the North Building.
The following information records Craft ACT’s infrastructure, an overview of the 2006 financial
activities, and other internal reports including: curatorial program, audience development and
public program, marketing and promotion of membership and collaboration.
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‣ Organisation structure
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Its charter is to steer the organisation towards its mission statement, manage its vision and oversee
its aims. The Management Committee is comprised of multiple skills seen as essential to the
organisation. The Management Committee maintains the corporate governance through regular
monthly meetings, and with monthly reports including: Directors Report, Financial Report, Program
Reports, and the minutes.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The Executive Director works with the Management Committee to set goals for the
organisation. The Executive Director oversees the implementation of the goals, implements
initiatives with staff and participates in the programs of the organisation. The Executive
Director represents the organisation to strategic stakeholders. This position liaises with funding
agencies and is responsible for grant applications and acquittals, and the overall running of the
organisation.
CURATOR PUBLIC PROGRAMS
This position is responsible for
media liaison, development and
implementation of events,
publications, professional
development programs and
website information.
CURATOR OF EXHBITIONS
This position manages the exhibition
program of the organisation both on &
off site and identifies opportunities for
the development of this program. This
position works closely with members,
artists, other organisations and
audiences.
FINANCIAL OFFICER
This position is the principal
financial administrator of the
organisations records and day to
day financial management,
produces monthly financial
reports and manages the annual
audit.
CURATORIAL INTERN(S)
This position is offered to
emerging curators to assist
both the Curator of Exhibitions
and Public Programs. This
position also curates at least
one exhibition per annum if
possible.
ADMIN/GALLERY ASSISTANT
This position minds the gallery on
the weekend and attends to
membership and media
administration. The position is
shared.
INSTALLATION TECHNICAL
ASSISTANT
This position works to the Curator
Exhibitions and install and
demounts exhibitions whilst
providing maintenance of gallery
furniture.
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‣ Staff
Full Time
Barbara McConchie Executive Director 1.0
Jason Hugonnet Curator and Exhibition Manager 1.0
Part Time
Diana Campbell Curator of Public Programs 0.8
Alice Macdonald Administrative Administrator 0.6
Casual Staff
Julie Ryder
Admin/Gallery assistant (job share) 142 hrs total
Sally Mussett/Sarah Hilyard Admin/Gallery assistant (job share) 152 hrs total
Alex Asch Installation 259.5 hrs total
Interns
Anne Crowther ANU Intern 1 day/week Mar-Nov
Consultants
Peter Irving & Co. – Auditor
AON Insurance – Insurance Broker
BCT – Computer consultant and maintenance
Genius Moon – Web Designers
‣ Financial and asset management
• Craft ACT maintains an efficient well-managed organisation that seeks to increase
resources to respond to the needs of members and stakeholders.
• Craft ACT maintains an efficient service to the community capitalising on its grant funding.
• In 2006 Craft ACT changed its bank account to a Business Maximiser Account with the
National Australia Bank, to take advantage of better interest rate returns.
• Proactive management of the Craft ACT two short term investment accounts representing
its reserves continues to be managed to return the best interest rate available in three or
six month periods.
• Monthly scrutiny of the accounts by the Executive Director and the Financial Administrator
ensured efficient and carefully monitored running of the organisations financial position.
• Peter Irving & Co., Craft ACT’s auditor, completed a mid year overview of craft ACT’s
accounts checking on project grants and GST liabilities, ensuring that the accounts were
correct to date.
• Craft ACT notes that touring exhibition fees are on the increase, limiting the ability of the
organisation to import exhibitions in the future.
• Craft ACT made higher than expected returns in sales through its exhibition program.
• Craft ACT kept spending under control guaranteeing a sound economical position as it
moves into 2007.
• Craft ACT managed its small surplus to upgrade its computer equipment for staff.
• Craft ACT’s program of expenditure is budgeted to the last dollar any change of
programming costs will have significant financial impacts.
• Craft ACT’s wages are static increasing only with the CPI rate set in accordance with its
funding. This does not reflect the true CPI annual rate and will need to be addressed in the
future.
• In the delivery of all its programs Craft ACT provides and promotes responsible financial
management in order to ensure efficient delivery of services.
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‣ Staff management and development
• Craft ACT upholds quality and timely people management services and staff reviews to
maintain a work environment that is efficient, safe, values diversity, nurtures well being
and provides appropriate pay and conditions.
• Craft ACT aims to attract the best people for the job and provide staff development
opportunities in order to best achieve Craft ACT objectives.
• Craft ACT completed performance reviews with all staff by a panel from the Management
Committee. This review allowed staff to talk about the role of their positions and
considered the potential for growth in each area.
• All staff members undertook professional development in 2006:
o Barbara McConchie attended the National Ceramic Conference, Brisbane, and
attended various seminars and workshops in Canberra focussing on strategic
planning for Canberra’s centenary
o Jason Hugonnet attended the Sydney Bienale Symposium and the Australian Craft
and Design Centre’s Curators meeting Brisbane
o Diana Campbell attended the public programs associated with the Craft Victoria’s
Scarf Festival
o Alice Macdonald undertook further professional development studies in financial
administration
‣ Building management
• As the principal tenant on level one of the North Building Craft ACT is responsible for
facility management and maintaining a safe working environment for its subtenants. In so
doing Craft ACT provides efficient and safe delivery of services to its subtenants,
maintains a safe building environment, reports to the building owners on issues requiring
attention.
• Jason Hugonnet is the Fire Warden for the first floor officers of the North Building. Jason
undertook a first aid refresher course with St John’s ambulance as the first aid officer.
• Craft ACT put into process a review of its subtenants lease and upgrading for 2007.
‣ Accountability
• To maximise organisational efficiency Craft ACT maintains clear communication channels
between the Craft ACT Management Committee, staff, members and stakeholders.
• Craft ACT maintains deadlines for grant applications and acquittals.
‣ Programs
• Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre is the only Canberra organisation specialising in the
promotion, exhibition and advocacy of the best of professional and emerging
contemporary craft and design ranging across all areas of contemporary craft and design
practice.
• Throughout 2006, Craft ACT successfully promoted the quality and quantity of
contemporary craft and design practice in the Canberra region and advocated for its
recognition to many audiences. Craft ACT through its business plan identifies
opportunities and lists strategic initiatives creating outcomes that benefit the sector and the
Canberra community. In adhering to its strategic business plan Craft ACT continues to
develop opportunities through the following key target areas for the benefits of the
Canberra community, its members, and artists:
‣ Curatorial program and promoting emerging and established artistic practice
‣ Audience development and public programs
‣ Marketing, promotion and membership
‣ Collaborations and advocacy
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‣ Curatorial program promoting artists
• In 2006 Craft ACT again performed at maximum capacity hosting thirty five exhibitions in
its galleries and at other venues. Support for Craft ACT from the ACT Government and the
Federal Government continues to ensure quality exhibitions for audiences in Canberra,
and beyond.
• Craft ACT is acknowledged by way of audience engagement and critical review, in its wide
ranging and multi disciplinary program which delights, inspires and amuses its patrons.
The exhibitions question, contemplate, celebrate, and seek to understand the world as it is
today. The artists reflect, critique and comment upon common perceptions and in the
process develop a rich dialogue of cultural practice, with their audiences.
• The artistic program presented by Craft ACT is managed and curated principally by Jason
Hugonnet, Curator and Exhibition Manager, and supported by all other staff including the
2006 Curator Intern Anne Crowther. Craft ACT’s program of exhibitions is brought together
by the Exhibition Sub Committee during the previous year to allow lead time for the
development of exhibitions. The Exhibition Sub Committee includes: the Executive
Director and the Curator and the following members of the Management Committee Alison
Munro and Jonathan Everett for 2006.
• Exposure and development prospects for emerging artists are an important feature of
Craft ACT’s exhibition program. Ongoing support and continued recognition of mid career
and established artists is seen as guaranteeing professional development for artists at all
stages of their careers.
• The program in 2006 incorporated two touring exhibitions, an exhibition developed by
Craft ACT which toured to Cowra Regional Gallery, and an exhibition curated by the Craft
ACT Intern. A range of strong group and solo exhibitions in 2006 offered audiences the
latest ideas in furniture making, glass, ceramic, jewellery, textiles, and mixed media.
• Craft ACT was host to an Australian National University Art History Curatorship student
Anne Crowther. During her internship Anne gained valuable experience as a team
member of a vivid arts organisation, performing a range of duties across liaison and
negotiation with artists, exhibition management, marketing and promotion and curatorial
research.
• Craft ACT achieves its goal to work as a foundation organisation for emerging artists by
dedicated programming of smaller presentations of work in the Craft ACT showcases
located at Craft ACT in the North Building in the heart of Canberra, a set of showcases at
the Canberra Centre Shopping Mall, and in special showcases at the Land Development
Agency at the Kingston Foreshore precinct, a major redevelopment by the ACT
Government; in solo shows in Gallery 2 at Craft ACT and as part of major group
exhibitions in Gallery 1.
• Craft ACT adds further support and promotion through other programs which target
emerging practitioners which includes the ANU School of Art Emerging Artist Support
Scheme, the Canberra Potters Society Annual Members Show Craft ACT award, and the
Melt Award, an exhibition in the Crucible showcases offered to an outstanding industrial
design graduate from the University of Canberra.
‣ Audience development and public programs
• Craft ACT’s core business is the promotion of artistic practice to audiences of the
Canberra community and beyond. It delivers this promotion by means of its exhibition
program intrinsically linked to its public program.
• Events included in this program support Craft ACT’s aims of promotion for artists and the
membership of and the organisation itself.
• Activities and events undertaken by Craft ACT are aimed at: developing links to the
10

general public by participating in targeted local events; to make the visual arts accessible
to the community by presenting floor talks for every major exhibition; to enliven gallery
exhibitions by hosting small forums, discussions, sales and previews.
• The public programs include discrete and exhibition associated events which provide a
framework for the community to easily familiarise themselves with diversity and best
practice of contemporary craft and design.
• 2006 saw a continued commitment to improving the visibility of contemporary craft and
design practice in Canberra by commissioning new writing in this field as part of Craft
ACT’s hard copy newsletters and by securing writing for other journals. These articles
revealed new stories on Canberra based practitioners, including both new and established
artists.
• Craft ACT is known for its professional development assistance to artists at any stage of
their career. Once again in 2006, Craft ACT ran a program designed to offer professional
quality advice on a range of topics including grant writing, freight of work, exhibition design
and layout, media liaison and other areas crucial to an artist’s ongoing practice. Craft ACT
teamed up with Canberra Contemporary Art Space once again, resulting in a wider
audience reach.
• Craft ACT retained a specific budget for its public programs and events which was only
achievable by the implementation and distribution of VACS funding.
‣ Marketing, promotion and membership
• Marketing and promotion of its members, the sector and Canberra’s rich cultural
environment is a key role of Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre.
• The promotion activities are calculated to raise awareness and understanding of the vast
work and excellence achieved by the local craft and design community.
• This area has equal importance and strategic value to the exhibition program, is
determined by Craft ACT’s budget for promoting and advertising its activities and the
artists it represents.
• Without a market presence Craft ACT believes it would experience very real turndown in
audience participation.
• Craft ACT recognises that there are many avenues for promotion and has continuously
addressed this by being aware of various sources, avenues and opportunities for
promotion.
• Assessment of the most strategic avenues is reinforced at staff meetings, Management
Committee meetings and strategic planning days.
• Craft ACT believes that increasing general knowledge of its activities and the artists it
represents to wider audiences is extremely good value for money. Further more,
promotion of the artists and events to the public is critical to the development of an artist’s
career and the survival of both the artists practice and Craft ACT as a place for public
encounter with the arts.
• Craft ACT’s very modest budget in this area has proved time and again to be worth the
investment. In 2005 and again in 2006 Craft ACT continued to monitor and respond to its
promotion and advertising schedules to create the largest impact possible on the budget
available.
• Craft ACT is noticing interest in retail by the general public always increases during and
immediately after its annual members Christmas exhibition. Craft ACT will be analysing
this response as part of an internal analysis to provide retail for its members and
audiences.
11

‣ Collaborations and advocacy
• Craft ACT maintains strong networks both locally and nationally through the Network of
Australian Craft and Design. This ensures Craft ACT has the potential to work
collaboratively on nominated projects. The benefits of this process are a wider scope of
participation of organisations and artists which directly connects to a wider community
base.
• For the second year Craft ACT presented contemporary craft and design as part of a
coordinated program of exhibitions and artist talks at various venues in Canberra.
• Craft ACT developed an exhibition to celebrate and link into the 2006 Australia Japan Year
of Exchange cultural event, which then toured to the Cowra Regional Gallery.
• Developed exciting new product launches including working closely with a fashion
boutique to present a fashion show with a new product launch by a Craft ACT member.
• Hosted an exhibition at the Strathnairn Homestead Gallery located in west Belconnen.
• Participated in Canberra’s National Multicultural Festival and the Celebrate Canberra
Festival.
• The above collaborations draw audiences from a wider area to Craft ACT. They represent
major projects for Craft ACT assisted by better resourcing of the organistion.
• Each of these projects focuses on promoting participation and appreciation for excellence
and innovation in contemporary craft and design.
• Craft ACT participated in national networks through out the year, meeting with the
Australian craft and design network, government agencies, and community reference
groups.
• Craft ACT’s advocacy and lobbying capabilities are an integral component of its programs
supporting the artists that it represents by reaching out to various government, education
and community groups.
Report on 2006 activities in relation to the 2005-2007 Business Plan
• The matrix on page 13, 14 & 15, is a summation of Craft ACT 2006 activities cross
referenced with the 2005-2007 Business Plan Key Goals, Key Performance Indicator’s
(KPI’s) and Prioritised Initiatives and Target Outcomes (PITO).
• During its second year of VACS funding Craft ACT has continued to meet identified
KPI’s and PITO’s and our VACS requirements.
• Development began in 2006 for an improved website. Craft ACT resolved its staffing
issue with the website by being able to budget outsourcing of this activity to make
certain that this face of Craft ACT is maintained, up to date and communicating with
Craft ACT’s audiences. It will go on line in mid 2007.
• Craft ACT maintains that all goals are not met simultaneously and that there is room for
growth and development within each year.
The following data has been taken from the three year Business Plan 05 – 07 for
reference.
VISIONS AND GOALS
• 2 new Spaces for the exhibition and promotion of contemporary craft and design in
Canberra region
• Initiate 2 new strategies to increase craft and design practitioners commercial
opportunities
• Develop 2 new online programs to increase regional, national and international
exposure and export of ACT products
• Increase the number of participants in the professional development programs
• Promote craft and design career paths to primary/secondary school students
12

• Foster commercial relationships for the organisation with identified creative industry
groups
MAINTENANCE GOALS
• Foster professionalism, excellence and innovation in craft and design practice
• Advocate for and represent the members
• Maintain an efficient well managed and financially responsible organisation.
CRAFT ACT OVERVIEW OF ACTIVITIES FOR 2006
• In 2006 Craft ACT successfully managed its program benefiting from stable staff
employment due to increased infrastructure support
• Craft ACT developed a program of exhibitions that presented new major works;
highlighted new and old technologies; demonstrated excellence; displayed
retrospectives of major mid career artists and designers; combined emerging artists with
established peers; developed solo exhibitions with Accredited Professional Members;
toured an exhibition regionally.
• Craft ACT increased its exhibition program by exhibiting offsite
‣ Perfect Balance, group furniture exhibition of Craft ACT members at the Strathnairn
Homestead Gallery
‣ Traditions and Departures exhibition developed by Craft ACT, shown at Craft ACT
and Cowra Regional Gallery
• Craft ACT hosted an expanded public program through its exhibition program
‣ Metamorphosis: reconstituting traditions exhibitions and artist talks at various venues
across Canberra
‣ Series 3: A series of conversations and discussions revealing the stories of three
Accredited Professional Members of Craft ACT. Audiences were invited to engage
with the artists as well as offering the artists the opportunity to showcase their work
and receive feedback.
‣ Special Events: Craft ACT hosted a number of targeted talks for the further promotion
of contemporary craft and design including a presentation by: Craft Australia and the
National Mapping Project: Craft Victoria and the South project; Craft Australia and
Object Centre for Australian Design and the Living Treasures project.
‣ Memories in Place: art in high country huts: Launch of the catalogue
‣ Floor talks at the National Gallery of Australia: Craft ACT members only talks for the
Revolutinary Russians and the Crafted Object exhibitions at the National Gallery of
Australia
‣ Get With The Program, professional development series
• Craft ACT hosted extensive public programs including the following artists talks:
‣ Peter Giles & Rodney Haward, Chinese Chair, Multicultural Festival
‣ Series 3.1, Itzell Tazzyman, conversation
‣ Blanche Tilden & Phoebe Porter, Est. 2005, ANU Artforum Lecture
‣ Sandra Brown for Object Gallery, Les Blakebrough: Ceramics floor talk
‣ Tom Moore, Little Known Facts, ANU Artforum Lecture
‣ Tom Moore, Lilttle Known Facts floor talk
‣ Shuji Yamazaki, Taditions and Departures floor talk
‣ Stuart Forsythe, Traditions and Departures, Cowra Regional Gallery public program
‣ Elizabeth Kelly, City of Glass floor talk
‣ Jason Hugonnet curator, City of Glass, CIT Student floor talk
‣ Jason Hugonnet curator, 1200 x 2400 curators floor talk
‣ Jason Hugonnet curator, 1200 x 2400 CIT Student floor talk
‣ Alan Wale, Craig Harris, Derek Wiffen, The Hand in the 21 st Century, Artforum
Lecture as part of Metamorphosis: reconstituting traditions
PERFORMANCE AGAINST
KEY PERFORMANCE
INDICATORS (KPI’S) &
PRIORITISED INITIATIVES
& OUTCOMES (PITO)
Support all visions and
goals
Supported all vision and
goals for Craft ACT
KPI # 1,2
PITO # 1, 2, 7, 9
KPI # 1, 2, 7
PITO # 1, 2, 7, 9
KPI # 1, 2
PITO # 1, 2, 6, 7, 9
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‣ Patsy Hely, Pastoralia, floor talk
‣ Series 3.2, Johannes Kuhnen, conversation
‣ Series 3.3, Janet DeBoos, conversation
‣ Monique van Nieuwland, Simply Cloth, floor talk
• Craft ACT developed and participated in a number of local and national events
‣ Multicultural Festival
‣ Metamorphosis: reconstituting traditions, focus on local contemporary furniture
designers and makers
‣ Australia Japan Year Of Exchange 2006 participation in this national event with the
exhibition Traditions and Departures.
‣ Network of Australian Craft and Design Centres biannual meetings
‣ Network of Australian Craft and Design Centres Curators annual meeting
• Product launches 2006 included:
‣ Bocket: Craft ACT Member Imogen Keen launched the ultimate Spring accessory, the
Bocket. Keen’s original handbag design, was developed for the product launch to
incorporate a hand and shoulder bag range. The bags are made with industrial and
vintage cloth and each bag is unique, emphasising the hand made attraction.
‣ Department of Exterior Spring – Summer Fashion Parade: Craft ACT hosted the
Department of Exterior fashion boutiques Spring Summer launch, focussing on
Australian fashion Design.
‣ Unleashed: Craft ACT curated a product launch including both its Accredited
Professional Members and new emerging makers interested in commercial
opportunities.
‣ Retail discussions: Craft ACT has been approached by a developer to discuss the
possibility of Craft ACT presenting a retail/exhibition space in a major new
development in Canberra.
• In partnership with web designers develop new website program
‣ Craft ACT employed Genius Moon web designers to overhaul Craft ACT’s website.
Upon completion of the redevelopment Craft ACT will employ Genius Moon to
maintain the site with all updates and expanding and contracting the site depeneding
on project activity.
• Formed a Philanthropic Sub Committee and have been developing a relationship with a
targeted company
• Ongoing targeting of undergraduate membership of Craft ACT to encourage ongoing
membership for emerging artists. This expanded in 2006 to include students from the
Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) and the University of Canberra. saw the first
implementation of the Undergraduate Email membership successfully taken up by 80%
of Undergraduates from the ANU School of Art, approximately 35% of targeted students
at CIT and approximately 10% of students at the University of Canberra.
KPI # 1, 2
PITO # 1, 2, 7
KPI # 1, 2, 3, 4
PITO # 1, 3, 7, 8
KPI # 6, 4, 5, 7, 8
PITO # 10, 8, 4, 3
KPI # 10, 11
KPI # 8
PITO # 5
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KPI’S
1. Exhibition partnerships at new venues co managed by Curator of
Exhibitions and Curator of Public Programs
2. One Curator Intern position available per annum
3. Craft ACT Product Launch program – High End, Hand Made
4. Investigate retail outlet physical or electronic
CRITICAL MILESTONES
Number of exhibitions increase from 12 to 13
Curatorial Intern position filled
One exhibition curated by intern per annum
2 Product Launches hosted
1 artists sell work to a commercial outlet 2005 increasing to 2 in
2006/2007
‣ Report on viability of commercial outlet to Management
Committee end 2007
5. Craft ACT website Register of Commercial Outlets ‣ 50 commercial outlets listed by 2007
6. In partnership with web designers develop new website program ‣ On-line exhibition program launched 2007
7. Funding sourced for professional development programs ‣ In partnership with Business ACT roll out Applied Ideas
industry development program mid 2005. If successful and
funding secure, run again in 2006. Due to changes with
Business ACT this is no longer relevant.
Get with the Program participation increases to a minimum of 20 per
session.
8. Undergraduate membership program ANU 2005
UCAN and CIT in 2006
9. Develop an education program with a funded project 1 education activity as part of one project biennially beginning 2005
10. Form a Philanthropic Sub Committee Committee formed
‣ One exhibition sponsored 2006 and 2007
Priority INITIATIVE MEASURES MILESTONES RESPONSIBILITY
1 Exhibition partnerships
2 exhibitions offsite annually, beginning
at new locations off site
March 2005
2 Curatorial Intern
Program
3 Develop Craft ACT
product launch
program: High End:
Hand Made
4 Craft ACT Register of
Commercial Outlets
5 New free membership
program for
undergraduate tertiary
students
6 Source funding for Get
With The Program
7 Strategically align
exhibition program to
local and/or national
events
8 Investigate retail outlet
physically and/or
electronically
9 Develop education
program with one
project
10 Online exhibition
program
11 Partnership with
Austrade to tour APM
exhibition to Asia
Approach exhibition venues in greater
Canberra area.
Approach regional gallery opportunity
for direct touring.
Strategic partnership with Canberra
Airport and UCAN for Craft ACT
permanent display showcase at APT
2 interns annually Advertise in December for positions
between February – May and July –
October per annum
4 Launches per annum Launch occurring April, June, August,
November 2005,06,07
1 Artist’s product picked up by
commercial outlet per annum
The Register is part of Craft ACT
website
Implement new membership program
Funding successful 2005, 2006, 2007
At least one event targeted and aligned
per annum
Research by the Executive Director.
Generate support from local and
regional members to supply outlet.
Assess physical structure of premises
and structure of website.
Build in education component to one
project funding 2005 and 2007
Enter into partnership with Web
designers 2005.
September 2006 assess for
implementation in 2007
Develop exhibition structure mid 2005.
Work with Austrade to secure venues
in 3 countries end 2005. Secure
funding 2006.
Launched August 2005
30 Companies online by December
2005, 50 companies December 2006,
Companies reviewed 2007 with
potential to increase to 70
Established with the ANU in March
2005, with University of Canberra and
Canberra Institute of Technology
March 2006
Increased participation through better
targeted advertising from an average of
20 to an average of 35
One exhibition identified with local or
national event per annum
Report to Management Committee
December 2005.
2006 if implemented create position
and space
Education program completed end
2005 and end 2007
Implemented 2007
Exhibition takes place 2006
Curator of Exhibitions with
support from the Curator of
Public Programs and the
Curatorial Intern
Executive Director and the
Curator of Exhibitions with
support from the Curator of
Public Programs
Curator of Public Programs,
with support from the Curator
of Exhibitions and Executive
Director
Executive Director and the
Curator of Public Programs
with support from
Administrative Assistant
Curator of Public Programs
with support from the
Administrative assistants
Curator of Public Programs
with support from the
Executive Director and Interns
Curator of Exhibitions with
support from the Curatorial
Intern, Curator of Public
Programs and Executive
Director
Executive Director with
support from Administrative
Assistant and Curator of
Exhibitions.
Curator of Public Programs
with assistance from the
Curator of Exhibitions
Executive Director / Curator of
Public Programs, with support
from Curator of Exhibitions
Executive Director with
assistance from the Curator of
Exhibitions.
15

CURATORIAL PROGRAM AND PROMOTING EMERGING ARTISTS
The Craft ACT Exhibition Program meets key objectives of the Craft ACT Business Plan:
• to promote contemporary craft and design , individual craft and design artists
and Craft ACT;
• to encourage and develop professionalism and excellence in craft and design
practice;
• to encourage a dynamic and responsive climate for the presentation of
contemporary craft and design practice that fosters innovation.
• Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre is an organisation that sets the benchmark for
professional contemporary craft and design presentation in Canberra and beyond. It
strives to present a program that celebrates individual practice, new ideas and
technologies and to challenge perceived ideas of contemporary craft and design through
curatorial investigation. The exhibition program is a response to the Craft ACT business
plan and is the flagship of the regions best contemporary craft and design.
• The exhibition program is developed for the enjoyment and delight of the Canberra
community. To accomplish this, the exhibition program is enhanced by Craft ACT’s
publication program offering quality informative texts, graphic material and public program
of events to complement each exhibition.
• Gallery 1 was host to another remarkable year of professional exhibitions in a range of
media and concepts. The year began with a focus of Craft ACT’s Accredited Professional
Members exhibition, now becoming an annual rather than biannual event, 2 Materials was
curated by Jason Hugonnet. The Object Gallery touring exhibition Les Blakebrough:
Ceramics is the first in the series titled Living Treasures: Masters of Australian Craft. To
celebrate the Australia Japan Year of Exchange 2006, Craft ACT developed an exhibition
that highlighted the exchange of craft knowledge, skills and concept between Japanese
and Australian artists. 1200 x 2400 is the size of a standard sheet of plywood and was the
challenge put to six emerging artists to create a functional prototype from a single sheet.
Craft ACT hosted the Bathurst Regiona Art Gallery touring exhibition Baubles, Bangles
and Beads. The season concluded with the very popular exhibition the Craft ACT
Members Christmas Exhibition, titled Local Hands.
• As part of her internship Anne Crowther curated Craft ACT’s offsite exhibition Perfect
Balance at the Strathnairn Homestead Gallery. This exhibition was used to generate a
program of exhibitions, artists talks and a forum focusing on contemporary furniture design
and making. Anne was responsible for selecting and contacting the artists, liaising with the
host gallery, administering the exhibition with contracts etc, developing invites, media
releases, mailouts and exhibition installation and demount.
• Gallery 2 exposed the extraordinary depth of talent in contemporary Australian craft and
design. The year began with Craft ACT’s selection for the National Multicultural Festival,
The Chinese Chair, an exhibition curated by Nigel Lendon and Rodney Hayward exploring
the genealogy of the chair. Est. 2005, new jewellery by Phoebe Porter and Blanche Tilden
showcased the rewarding outcomes of the Australia Council Youth Mentorship grant
auspiced by Craft ACT. Little Known Facts was a world of exploration and wonder
installed by glass artist Tom Moore. Elizabeth Kelly created a large work probing the
materiality of glass within a contemporary political context. An exhibition of ceramics,
sound and light examined notions of the pastoral in the exhibition titled Pastoralia by Patsy
Hely. Artist Monique van Niuewland’s exhibition Simply Cloth unravelled ordinary pieces of
cloth and reconstructed them into new hand woven fabrics that re-contextualised their
function and domesticity. The Gallery 2 program is made up from individual proposals and
Craft ACT programming and in 2006 it brought together a great selection of Craft ACT
Accredited Professional Membership, general members, emerging and interstate artists.
• Craft ACT provides many exhibition and presentation opportunities for artists through a
series of specialised showcases. The Crucible showcase at the entrance to Craft ACT
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features studied presentations by local emerging and established artists. The Craft ACT
Front Counter is a small and intimate showcase of four drawers, displaying small works
and products and providing a snapshot of the artists work. The Canberra Centre
Showcases are located in the heart of the busy retail complex the Canberra Centre.
Exposure to the high number of shoppers is valuable for artists, yet it is also a site that
competes with the visual noise of the shopping mall. In addition, Craft ACT has no control
over where the showcases are placed. The Land Development Agency is an arm of the
ACT Government that is currently redeveloping the lakeside suburb of Kingston. Part of
this redevelopment is the establishment of the new Canberra Glassworks in the
refurbished Power House. To celebrate this and provide a taste of what is to come, Craft
ACT in partnership with the Land Development Agency has a special showcase in its foyer
which presents the best of local glass art. Craft ACT utilised its showcases by hosting a
showcase as a small retail site located in its foyer.
In addition:
• 152 Artists were represented by Craft ACT in 2006
• The exhibitions represented major new works by Craft ACT Accredited Professional
Members, emerging and established artists.
• Approximately 54 emerging artists exhibited in the Craft ACT galleries. This total
demonstrates the important role that Craft ACT plays in bridging the gap between
academic study and a professional career.
• Craft ACT is a patron of the Emerging Artist Support Scheme (EASS) at the ANU
School of Art presenting an exhibition at the Craft ACT Canberra Centre Showcases.
• Craft ACT is a patron of the annual Canberra Potters Society Members Exhibition and
offers an exhibition at the Craft ACT Canberra Centre Showcases.
• Craft ACT is a patron of the University of Canberra Design School and offers the Melt
Award for a graduate to exhibit work in the Craft ACT Crucible showcase.
• The Mentorship grant is offered annually by the Visual Arts Craft Board of the
Australia Council and distributed through Craft ACT. Selection for this grant is by peer
assessment and thanks go to the individuals who make up that peer assessment
panel for their time and knowledge.
• Each of these awards and grants plays a vital role in assisting emerging artists in
establishing their practice.
A detailed report of the exhibitions presented by Craft ACT is attached in appendix A.
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PUBLIC PROGRAM incorporating Publishing, Membership, Marketing programs
The Craft ACT Public Program meets key objectives of the Craft ACT Business Plan:
• to promote contemporary craft and design, individual craft and design artists
and Craft ACT
• to increase regional, national and international exposure and export of ACT
contemporary craft and design;
• to increase and enhance professional development in the sector;
• foster audience and commercial relationships for contemporary craft artists
and designers
• to encourage a knowledge and appreciation of contemporary craft in the wider
community
• Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre prides itself on implementing a strategic and dynamic
public program and effective promotions providing a vital connection between artists and
audiences of the Canberra community. A more stable infrastructure and a detailed
business plan has made this program more effective, yet it is still very limited in its
capacity in comparison with other state sister organisations, which have all increased
staffing numbers and resources to this area. Craft ACT looks at opportunities that can
capitalise on its exhibition and membership programs and has been creative in developing
various avenues to push ahead with fresh programs that enhance public participation,
awareness and understanding.
• Reaching into parts of the community that are not aware of Craft ACT or not inclined to the
arts requires substantial monetary support and innovative approaches. Craft ACT is still
behind other states in VACS funding and consequently relies on other grants (in a
diminishing and very competitive market) and innovative ideas. Craft ACT has been
successful in collaborating with other organisations and as such is becoming known as a
supportive and valuable local Canberra arts organisation. Craft ACT is a leader of local
cultural programs for the community.
Key events and activities that Craft ACT led, hosted, and collaborated in include:
• Metamorphosis: reconstituting tradition
Craft ACT in collaboration with the ANU School of Art Wood Workshop organised a series
of exhibitions and artists talks across Canberra to focus on contemporary furniture design
and making. 1200 x 2400, Perfect Balance and Talent Enough, a retrospective of the
work of Alan Wale drew attention to the furniture and object making with Australian wood
and new materials. This included the special Artforum event at the ANU School of Art
titled: The Hand in the 21 st Century, featuring a panel of artists from each of the three
exhibitions. Alan Wale presented a talk about the exhibition Perfect Balance at the
Strathnairn Homestead Gallery. This talk exposed the remarkable knowledge and talent
that Alan posses as he was able to describe and converse on each object, even though he
is now blind.
• Accredited Professional Member (APM) Activities:
‣ Launch of new program: Craft ACT has rejuvenated this area of its membership,
spending two years in discussion to revamp this membership and the services it
provides. This membership is a corner stone of the organisation and contains locally,
nationally and internationally renowned contemporary craft and design artists based
in Canberra. Craft ACT held an information discussion night in August with its APM’s
to launch its new program and engage in feedback and conversation about the
revised program.
‣ Connected: As part of its new programs Craft ACT began a series of networking
events designed to engage with leading figures professional members of the
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community to share knowledge and ideas with this membership group. The first event
was hosted after the discussion of the new program.
o Catrina Vignando presented a talk on the Craft ACT online forum:
Youth@craft.design, and Gilbert Riedelbauch presented a talk on the new
design courses being run at the Australian National University School of Art.
o Annie Trevillian presented a Travelogue of her recent visit to the New Textile
Design Centre of Montreal and the Australian National Universities Outside
Studies Program.
‣ Series 3: As part of the new program for the APM Craft ACT hosted conversations
with three of its AP Members. These events are designed to be an informal
discussion between the artist and Director and Curator and to engage directly with
the audiences. The three participating artists included Itzell Tazzyman, Johannes
Kuhnen and Janet deBoos.
• Free Undergraduate Membership: Craft ACT developed a strategy to directly approach
and invite ANU School of Art undergraduates to take up free email based membership
with Craft ACT. 80% of undergraduates targeted became new members with Craft ACT.
This program was enhanced in 2006 to include Canberra Institute of Technology (approx.
35% of targeted students became members), and the University of Canberra Design
School (approx. 10% of students targeted became members).
• (Get With) The Program: In partnership with Canberra Contemporary Art Space, Craft
ACT presented for the second year running a series of advice seminars on issues for
professional practice. With the primary target being emerging artists, it was discovered
that other members with no tertiary qualifications were being provided with crucial support.
The seminars included: Grant Writing; Documentation + Credit Information; ABN, GST,
copyright and contracts; Freight; Exhibition Proposal; and Exhibition Design and layout.
• High End: Hand Made 1: Bocket launch. Craft ACT presented an evening of high fashion
and originality as it launched a new bag by member Imogen Keen as part of a fashion
launch of the 2006/07 Spring Summer range of fashion boutique Department of the
Exterior. Department of the Exterior specialises in new Australian fashion designers and
the inclusion of the fashion parade to emphasise the new hand crafted product – the
Bocket, was a highlight event. The evening was a smart coupling of fashion parade with
original hand made product – the Bocket. This feature carefully choreographed into the
evenings event ensured a well attended and successful event. As well as sales on the
night at Craft ACT, Imogen Keen’s Bocket sales at The Department of the Exterior
increased all the way through to Christmas. Attendance at the event was higher than
expected filling the Gallery to capacity
• High End: Hand Made 2: Unleashed: Craft ACT hosted a second product launch for four of
its members. Joining Accredited Professional Members were two emerging artists
presenting original production products. Jonathan Baskett and Scott Mitchell, two
experienced craft artists who have extensive experience marketing and are both
successful exporters, both presented new ranges for the event. Halie Lamb and Emily
O’Brien are two recent graduates from the ANU School of Art Gold and Silversmithing
workshop and presented a range of original contemporary work. Both artists enjoyed sales
and orders for their work. As a result of this experience Halie Lambe attended a retail
design fair in Sydney as a wholesale maker enjoying reasonable success and gaining
further experience. The opening event was designed to have a night club feel with live
music and open bar inside the gallery. Audiences enjoyed the different feel generated by
this event and this resulted in sales for the artists.
• Retail: Craft ACT has internally been examining the possibility of retail opportunities for its
members, as continued feedback from members and enquiries from the general public
indicate a market for this retail. Canberra’s retail sector has been progressively developing
to be broader in scope and educated in the area of original product. This is reflected in
19

expanding shopping malls, recent establishment of new commercial galleries and more
sophisticated café and restaurant scene. A major new development in the City West
precinct of Canberra, a location that is being developed in accordance with the Griffin
Legacy and the ACT Governments strategies for rejuvenating the city is incorporating all
these elements indicating the maturity of Canberra as a city. Craft ACT has been
approached by the developer of this site suggesting that Craft ACT and its activities is the
right mix for this site. The site has significant retail potential and audience development
capacity. It is of a relatively small scale, but well situated in this visionary development that
intrinsically links the arts with retail, hospitality, accommodation, office space and a
boutique hotel, including public art as a key feature of the development.
• New Website: Staff workshopped the aspects of a new design responding to ongoing
feedback from Craft ACT’s members and audiences alike. The site will be more
personable and include information that is presented as a more conversation style and
members will have access to restricted areas that will list opportunities and be a post
board for sharing information. The Craft ACT Accredited Professional Members will be
featured artists on the site, and have access to their information for regular information
updating.
A detailed report of the exhibitions presented by Craft ACT is attached in appendix A.
20