The Joy of Handmade

OVER THE PAST YEAR, I’VE BEEN FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO BE PART OF TWO SUCCESSFUL LOCAL LGBTIQ+ ART EXHIBITIONS HERE IN CANBERRA.

‘Kaleidoscope’ at Belconnen Arts in April and ‘Not the Only Clay in the Village’, currently running at the Canberra Potters’ Gallery in Watson — both filled with amazing work from local queer creators.

It’s reminded me just how many amazingly talented makers and artists Canberra has and, more significantly, how important it is to support them.

As an artist and potter myself, it’s probably no surprise I love handmade things. Whether it’s a new beanie for my cold head, a card for a friend or a funky lampshade for our bedroom. In my humble opinion, no factory can top something that’s been lovingly made by an artist.

With most things made overseas, I think the connection I make with handmade items and the people who make them is what’s most important to me.

We already know that buying Australian, and if possible local, is better for us and the environment — so with the lead-up to the silly season, I wanted to write down a few thoughts I had about why it’s also important to support local artisans and creators.

Canberra Glassworks is helping keep traditional glass making techniques alive

Canberra Glassworks

HANDMADE IS SUSTAINABLE AND LASTS LONGER

Once upon a time, when you bought something, it was well made and lasted, but not so much now. Mass production techniques have meant low wages, bulk buying, fast production, and often cheap materials. Lower production costs ensure that large companies make more profit with less regard for the actual items they are making.

In contrast, most handmade items are made slowly, with skill and usually quality materials, so they will last much longer. For many artists, the integrity of their process and the end product is incredibly important, resulting in creations that are more sustainable and considered.

YOU’RE SUPPORTING TRADITIONAL SKILLS

Many traditional crafts are in great danger of dying out. When we buy handmade, we are helping to ensure skills are kept alive and well supported. Each purchase we make allows a maker to develop their artistry further, re-invest in their craft, and carry on producing beautiful works of art.

BUYING HANDMADE CELEBRATES DIVERSITY

Handmade is a wonderful celebration of uniqueness, passion, diversity and culture. Everyday items, like a ceramic bowl, traditionally blown glass or handcrafted fashion, can be part of a personal journey that connects the maker to the buyer.

Sadly, most things we buy are mass-produced with little to no soul. Everything is standardised and looks the same — all tightly shrink-wrapped in plastic and ready to consume.

Handmade is about variety, people, creativity and connection. Each item is a unique display of talent and craftsmanship, and quite often, no piece will ever be the same (like each of us). I believe there is a real and authentic beauty in the inherent diversity of handmade. If you want something truly distinctive and personal, handmade won’t let you down.

Article by Alexander Thatcher

See his ceramics creations at www.littletree.studio