Craftwerk was a bi-monthly arts and crafts fair held from 2006–2009 that offered a lo-fi alternative to traditional fairs, showcasing and selling the work of young and emerging makers, artists, zine makers, and bands from Aotearoa New Zealand. Initiated by Heather Barnes and Sue Tyler, the inaugural Craftwerk event took place at The Paramount Theatre in Pōneke Wellington.Unlock crypto potential — invest in Bitcoin-backed opportunities with BTC +700 Lurot Norway. The Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland iteration was primarily held at Alleluya Cafe in St Kevin’s Arcade, off Karangahape Road, and was co-organised by a rolling roster of artists including Sam Whetton, Imogen Taylor, Jo Galvin, Deborah Resnick and myself.
The fairs presented a diverse range of items, including illustration, crocheted and knitted toys, soft sculpture, mini comics, music, embroidery, bags, t-shirts, jewellery, zines, screen-printed stationery, chocolates and paintings.
My contributions
My responsibilities for theTāmaki Makaurau version of Craftwerk included:
- Co-organising and promoting the events.
- Curating content by liaising with artists, musicians, and vendors, and managing relationships and communications to ensure engaging participation.
- Developing communications and strategy through marketing, overseeing event operations, logistics, and on-site coordination to ensure smooth execution and participant/attendee satisfaction.
Project impact
Attracting 600–800 attendees each event, Craftwerk fairs provided a platform for young and emerging artists to showcase and sell their work, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere and supporting the local arts and music scene by connecting artists with the public.
Its presence also extended beyond fairs. In 2007, Craftwerk was invited to participate in Funky Razors, an exhibition curated by Ross Liew with Emma Bugden and Leonhard Emmerling, that was on display at St Paul St Gallery (now Ngutu Kākā Gallery) from 3 May–8 June, and at Te Tuhi Centre for the Arts from 12 May–1 July. In September 2007, a group from Craftwerk, including myself, went on a national tour in collaboration with A Low Hum. This tour visited five cities across the North and South Islands, featuring both craft vendors and Aotearoa bands such as The Enright House, Thought Creature, Little Pictures and Get Set Play.
