Now in its fourth decade, non-profit organisation Design Tasmania is the heart of design in the state. This architectural gem in Launceston showcases imaginative and thought-provoking works, ensuring accessibility for all ages and levels of art knowledge.
Their Design Tasmania Wood Collection is an evolving collection of contemporary wood design, built to champion and showcase designers and makers from the region. While you’re there, check out their retail store where you can buy a curated collection of Tasmanian made art, furniture and jewellery.
Hobart’s historic waterfront is where you’ll find Art Mob, which has been showcasing the works of Aboriginal Australia for over 18 years.
The works on display encompass bark and dot paintings, watercolours and sculpture, from artists hailing from Tasmania, the Torres Strait Islands and the Kimberley. All proceeds from gallery sales goes towards the local Indigenous community.
Situated a stone’s throw from the North Esk River, in a former industrial corner building, is Sawtooth ARI, a space where contemporary and experimental artists have found a home. As an artist-run initiative (ARI), sharing ideas and bringing art to the community is what drives this energetic gallery.
Dedicated to supporting and presenting artists at all career stages, this space is four galleries in one. The First Space is dedicated to First Nations art, experiences, creations and stories. The galleries Inner Space and Back Space present emerging and experimental works, while the fourth, The Space, is dedicated to their community.
Good Grief Studios
The delight in a visit to Good Grief Studios comes before you even enter the building. With its prominent yellow paint job and vibrant murals, it occupies a former automotive workshop. This contemporary gallery is committed to experimentation and emerging artists, showcasing a plethora of disciplines from textiles to performance; sound installation to furniture design.
The studios house a total of 14 resident spaces, which are independently run. The artists make the most of the courtyard for exhibition openings, installations and the odd market day. Don’t forget to check out their tightly curated shop.
If you’re looking for a scenic drive through the bucolic West Tamar landscape, head out of Launceston to Artisan Pottery. Created in 1989 by Rudolf Sibrava and Lisa Boyter, this workshop is where magic happens.
Housed in a brightly painted 100-year-old weatherboard building, Artisan Pottery is surrounded by vineyards, and offers guests the opportunity to use the pottery wheel and wood-firing kiln for themselves, thanks to the recent addition of workshops and classes. Keep an eye out for special events and open days held by the duo, but with visits by appointment only, get in touch before you visit.
Having opened in 2022, Bickerstaff Blizzard has become a vibrant addition to the thriving art scene of the state’s capital. Co-founders Jess Blizzard and Shelley Bickerstaff converted a neglected heritage building into a bright and inviting space that showcases emerging Tasmanian talent alongside exceptional works from elsewhere.
The duo operates at a frenzied pace. Past exhibitions have featured Candice Broderick, a finalist in the 2023 Glover Art Prize; CK Studio’s innovative neon perspex furniture and object d’art; and acclaimed Sydney artist Jacob Pedrana. Bickerstaff Blizzard also boasts a permanent wall for kids’ art.
This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with Tourism Tasmania. Explore more wild, weird and wonderful experiences during Tasmania’s Off Season.
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