SANTA’S LITTLE MAKERS
Tactile Arts Christmas Maker’s Markets light up the Territory Netball Stadium with festive colour and creativity.
WORDS BROOKE GIBBS
WITH EVERYTHING FROM ceramics and jewellery to textiles, homewares and handmade beauty products, there’s an incredible range on offer to spoil that special someone for Christmas or perhaps pick up a cheeky something for yourself.
“There are always creative surprises to look out for at the Christmas Makers' Markets,” says General Manager Fabiola Martinez-Hinojosa.
This year, alongside established makers with years of practice, the markets offer young people a platform to sell their work.
“Makers are blending traditional skills with new technology, and a market stall is a great first taste of making, pricing, and selling your own work.
“We are also welcoming new makers. Every year, fresh faces bring new ideas, techniques and perspectives, and that keeps the markets feeling alive rather than familiar.”
There’s something special about buying directly from the person who has made an item. When you buy from a maker, your money goes straight to a person in your local community. For many artists, Christmas is one of the most important times of the year financially, and sales at a market can help fund materials, studio time and the next body of work.
It’s also about the quality of the gift. A handmade piece is one of a kind, made with care, and it comes with the maker’s story. People remember receiving something like that long after the wrapping paper is gone.
“Buying locally keeps skills, creativity and character in Darwin. A strong arts community makes Darwin a more interesting place to live,” says Martinez-Hinojosa.
“I hope visitors leave feeling connected to the makers, to each other and to the idea that creativity is part of everyday life – not something that only happens in a gallery. If someone walks away feeling inspired to try making something themselves, even better.”
Stallholder and volunteer Helen Menzies specialises in pottery, and has been involved in the Makers' Markets since retiring.
“I love helping organise the event as a volunteer. Working behind the scenes on the administration might not be the most glamorous job, but it is satisfying. When the doors open and the day runs smoothly, I know I’ve played a part in making that happen,” she says.
“It’s also a chance to show what I do and catch up with like-minded people I’ve worked with over the years. I love selling my work because it feels like giving a part of myself.”
Every artist adds their own flair and quirky creativity, so what you’re buying is unique and different.
“You won’t find the same piece on anyone else’s shelf and you’ll know who made it,” Menzies says.
“Supporting local makers also helps keep the arts and crafts sustainable in our community. When you buy from a market run by a not-forprofit organisation like Tactile Arts, you’re helping to maintain a hub for creatives and giving artists a real sense of belonging.”
Shop local, support artists and soak up the Christmas magic. See you at the markets!
Tactile Arts Christmas Makers' Markets
WHEN SAT 7 & SUN 8 NOV, 9AM-4PM
AT TERRITORY NETBALL STADIUM
COST GOLD COIN DONATION
INFO tactilearts.org.au
