The Society of Arts and Crafts of New South Wales

The Society of Arts and Crafts of New South Wales (ABN: 55000022195RR0001), commonly known as Craft NSW, is a historic Australian nonprofit organisation dedicated to the promotion and support of handcrafted arts and crafts. Established in 1906, it is considered Australia's oldest craft association and has played a pivotal role in fostering uniquely Australian craftsmanship across diverse mediums.

History

Founded by six practicing craftspeople in Mosman, New South Wales, the Society sought to develop distinctively Australian handmade crafts in both design and use of local materials, in an era when craft supplies heavily depended on English imports. Early notable members included the Danish emigrant woodcarver Susanne Vilhelmine Gether, who contributed significantly to the Society’s early exhibitions.

In 1907, the Society held its first exhibition featuring a variety of craft disciplines such as metalwork, jewellery, pottery, china painting, weaving, embroidery, and pokerwork. That year, members including over 60 pupils carved a rosewood dining set designed by Gether for the Exhibition of Women's Work, which was later displayed at the 1908 Franco-British Exhibition in London.

Throughout the early to mid-20th century, the Society maintained an active exhibition schedule, contributing to the growth of craft culture in Australia. In 1974, it established a physical base in Sydney's historic The Rocks precinct, reinforcing its presence within the local arts community.

In the 2000s, the organisation adopted the trading name "Craft NSW," reflecting a modern reinvention while maintaining continuity with its heritage. It operated galleries in The Rocks and later Millers Point, promoting member craftspeople and showcasing high-quality handmade works. The Society reinvigorated its presence through biannual exhibitions and online sales, directly connecting consumers with artisans.

Mission and Activities

The Society encourages and promotes various arts and crafts, facilitates exhibitions, and provides educational opportunities through workshops and events. Its members are often involved in teaching, guild activities, and contribute works to prominent public collections including the National Gallery of Australia, the Art Gallery of New South Wales, and the Powerhouse Museum.

Run entirely by craftspeople without employees, the Society creates an environment where visitors engage directly with knowledgeable makers, offering an authentic insight into the craft process and the significance of handmade objects.

Legacy

As Australia’s oldest craft organisation, The Society of Arts and Crafts of New South Wales has contributed significantly to the preservation and evolution of traditional and contemporary crafts. Its ongoing dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and local artisan communities sustains its position as a cornerstone of Australian craft culture.

Note: This article is based on publicly available sources documenting the history and activities of The Society of Arts and Crafts of New South Wales.

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Society_of_Arts_and_Crafts_of_NSW [2] https://www.artsandcraftsnsw.com.au [3] https://www.artsandcraftsnsw.com.au/pages/about-craft-nsw [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/52a5634b-38af-e811-a963-000d3ad244fd [5] https://archival.sl.nsw.gov.au/Details/archive/110094612