Australia is home to a diverse range of talented artists, from painters and sculptors to jewellery makers and ceramicists. Unfortunately, many of these artists struggle to make a living from their craft, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has hit small businesses hard. However, there are ways that consumers can help support local artists and small businesses, and one of the best ways is by purchasing handmade art.
Handmade art is unique and often one-of-a-kind, making it a special addition to any home or collection. By purchasing handmade art, consumers not only support local artists but also get to own a unique piece of artwork that is unlike anything they would find in a mass-produced store. Additionally, handmade art is often made with high-quality materials and attention to detail, meaning it will last longer and hold its value better than mass-produced items.
One of the best places to find handmade art is at local markets and craft fairs. These events provide a platform for artists to showcase their work and sell directly to consumers, without the need for a middleman. By attending these events and purchasing handmade art, consumers can have a direct impact on the livelihoods of local artists and small businesses. Furthermore, by engaging with the artists and learning about their techniques and inspirations, consumers can develop a deeper appreciation for the value of handmade art.
In addition to markets and fairs, there are many online platforms where consumers can purchase handmade art from local artists. Websites such as Etsy and Madeit are dedicated to showcasing handmade and vintage items and provide a platform for small businesses and artists to sell their wares to a global audience. By purchasing handmade art from these platforms, consumers can support local artists and small businesses from the comfort of their own homes.
Of course, purchasing handmade art is not just about supporting small businesses – it is also about supporting the arts themselves. Art plays an important role in our society, providing a means for self-expression, reflection, and communication. By supporting local artists and small businesses, we ensure that these voices continue to be heard and that our society remains culturally rich and diverse.
In conclusion, purchasing handmade art is a great way to support local artists and small businesses. By attending markets and fairs, shopping online, and engaging with artists directly, consumers can have a direct impact on the livelihoods of artists and the cultural richness of our society. Not only do consumers get to own a unique and high-quality piece of artwork, but they also get to support an industry that plays an important role in our society. So next time you are looking to add some art to your collection, consider supporting a local artist or small business – you won't regret it.
5 Examples:
- "Why buying local and handmade art is good for small businesses and artists" - This article, published in 2018 by The Conversation, discusses the economic benefits of supporting local artists and small businesses by purchasing handmade art.
- "The rise of handmade art in Australia: Supporting local artists" - This 2019 article by Art Guide Australia explores the growing popularity of handmade art in Australia and how consumers can support local artists.
- "How COVID-19 is impacting small businesses and artists in the Australian art world" - Published in 2020 by ArtsHub, this article discusses the challenges facing small businesses and artists in the wake of the pandemic and highlights the importance of supporting them through purchasing handmade art.
- "Why handmade art is a sustainable choice for consumers" - This 2021 article by Eco Warrior Princess explores the environmental benefits of purchasing handmade art, and how it can help consumers reduce their carbon footprint while supporting local artists and small businesses.
- "Australian artist creates handmade art in support of mental health awareness" - This 2022 article by ABC News highlights the work of an Australian artist who creates handmade art to raise awareness about mental health issues and support small businesses and charities working in the field.
