Hello VWA Members 

I am delighted to introduce myself as the new Business Manager for VWA. I have over three decades of experience in launching, nurturing and advising creative businesses, alongside being a practicing multi disciplined artist focused on textiles, painting, and pattern design. I am excited to join this creative organisation and also enthusiastic to continue my own woodworking journey through VWA’s classes.

My background in the non-profit sector and with social enterprises has given me a deep appreciation for the behind-the-scenes work that keeps organisations like the VWA thriving. The commitment and dedication of the committee members, who volunteer countless hours every month to support and sustain the VWA so often goes unseen. In my role, I will be stepping in to handle many of the tasks that our committee have been managing, ensuring that VWA continues to operate smoothly and also sustainably. Additionally, I will oversee health and safety protocols and contribute to the overall management of all of VWA activities.

I am also committed to helping VWA grow, expanding membership benefits, and exploring new opportunities for all members. You can find me at the Wood Design Centre one to two days a week. If you want to meet and chat, please reach out via email to set up a time. biz@vwa.org.au

Warm regards,
Wendy Jasper

The VWA runs a three year Artist in Residency program for emerging fine woodworkers, which provides a well-equipped and supportive environment at low cost while artists are establishing their practice.

Applicants are generally early career and have some training in fine woodwork, able to work independently, along with clear goals on what they expect to achieve during their residency. A portfolio of existing work is part of the application process.

Successful applicants understand that while in residence they are part of the broader VWA family and are asked to work cooperatively with each other as well as the teachers and students at the Victorian School of Woodwork.

Residency application

The VWA is pleased to announce the addition of a new wood working class now on Thursday afternoons from 2pm-5pm. Lead by tutors Lionel Seibert and Isabel Avendano this class is now open for term3 enrolment. 10 weekly classes where you will be expertly guided by your tutors to make a piece of furniture of your choice.

The Gottstien Trust are sponsoring one young Australian from outside NSW to attend Dunstone Design Production Master Class this October. If your interested in learning the art of small batch fine furniture production with award winning makers at Dunstone Design, click here to find out how to apply.

If you’re travelling interstate and looking for a short course to do over this summer break, check out the 5 day short course held by VWA member Phoebe Everil at the Sturt school for Wood in Mittagong, NSW. 

Create a contemporary ‘Toni’ bar stool featuring a hand woven Danish paper cord seat. Some experience is required. 

For more information on how to apply click here

Dear VWA members,

As we approach the festive season, we want to extend our warmest wishes to each and every one of you for a joyous and safe Christmas break. This year has been filled with creativity, learning, and shared moments, and we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been a part of our vibrant community. Your participation in classes and member meetings has been truly appreciated, and we’re grateful for the passion and enthusiasm you bring to the Woodworking Association. As the year draws to a close, we look forward to welcoming you all back for exciting new endeavors and shared experiences in the coming year. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Warm regards,

Victorian Woodworkers Community

The new VWA Insurance Membership for 2023-24 is now set up online and ready to go. Join us as a full member and receive Product and Public Liability Insurance!

Our current policy covers:

• Woodworkers and other craftworkers who sell their products, including those who sell at craft markets and online

• Those who teach their craft to groups of 10 or less

• Those who demonstrate or exhibit their craft

Now with no turnover limit!

We’ve introduced an online payment portal for quick and easy signup.

Information about the scheme is at available here: https://vwa.org.au/insurance-new/ or you can apply directly at: https://vwa.org.au/register/full-year-insurance-plan/

If you have any questions or difficulties with the application process please contact our Membership Secretary, Meg Allan via email: insurance@vwa.org.au or by phone: (03) 5776 2178.

An opportunity to learn Windsor Chair making from Jon Grant of Handmade Matters! Jon has created a mentorship program that will take place over three months at his studio in Tasmania’s hidden valley.

Throughout the mentorship you will craft your very own Windsor Chair under Jon’s expert guidance. You will receive training in all aspects of Windsor Chair making, learning everything required to complete a special chair to be treasured. You will gain first hand insight into Windsor Chair making history, the use of vintage tools, and Jon’s own deep connection to the timbers that grow in Tasmania’s glorious temperate forests.

Onsite accommodation is provided at no charge for the duration of the mentorship. Nestled within a quiet bush setting, the off grid, self-contained A-frame cabin is the ideal way to fully immerse yourself in the Handmade Matters experience.

Throughout the mentorship you will also lend your newfound skills to Handmade Matters by assisting in the creation of some of the key chair making components required for Jon’s chair making classes. You will also assist Jon in preparing for, and running, chair making workshops.

The Handmade Matters Mentorship is three months in duration, with participants committing to working alongside Jon for four days each week.

Applications are invited from those with demonstrated furniture making experience, a genuine interest in chair making, and a respect for the maker’s philosophy. Applications are particularly invited from regional and economically disadvantaged applicants.

See more and apply at https://handmadematters.com.au/mentorship/

The Talbot Maker Space at the Royal Talbot Rehabilitation Centre is now offering a suite of programs for people in the community with disabilities. Suitable for those looking  for a social outlet and beginner woodworkers, through to those looking to develop their craft, exhibit and sell work.

Programs range depending on your interest and skill levels.

Contact Program Coordinator, Michael O’Dwyer at maker.space@austin.org..au or visit @talbot_maker_space for more details.

The Clarence Prize is a biennial exhibition and an acquisition design prize that was launched in 2007, attracting entrants from around Australia with a reputation for demonstrating the breadth and diversity of contemporary Australian furniture design and making. This year’s event has just launched, with the winner of the Clarence Prize for Excellence in Furniture Design announced as Hobart-based designer and maker Patrick Adeney for the Winslow Armchair!

See more on the exhibition and awards here: https://www.clarenceartsandevents.net/

The exhibition showcasing the finalists from around the country, as well as all of the winning pieces, is open until Sunday 15 October at Rosny Barn in Hobart.