Australia Art and Craft Market Overview, 2029

The art and craft market in Australia has evolved significantly since its inception, reflecting broader cultural shifts and innovations. The roots of craft in Australia can be traced back to the early European settlements, where limited materials and skills constrained artisanship. However, the gold rushes of the 19th century attracted skilled artisans from Europe, establishing workshops that produced traditional crafts such as silverware and textiles. The Federation of Australia in 1901 further stimulated nationalist sentiments, prompting a revival of local crafts influenced by the Arts and Crafts Movement, which emphasized quality materials and craftsmanship as a reaction against industrialization. In the mid-20th century, Australian craft began to modernize, influenced by global trends such as American consumerism and Scandinavian design. The 1970s marked a significant revival in craft activities, supported by the establishment of craft councils and the Australia Council, which fostered experimentation in textiles, ceramics, and jewellery. The introduction of glassblowing and a focus on furniture design utilizing native timbers further diversified the craft landscape. By the 1980s, the craft sector began to professionalize, with new publications, galleries, and international exhibitions showcasing Australian artisans. Despite a decline towards the end of the 20th century due to technological advancements, the early 21st century witnessed resurgence in interest, driven by the DIY movement and a growing appreciation for sustainable practices. The concept of "poor craft," which emphasizes creativity through the use of found materials, gained traction, aligning with contemporary environmental concerns. The Australian art and craft market is characterized by a blend of traditional techniques and modern innovations. It serves not only as a creative outlet but also as a platform for social and political expression, particularly through collaborations with Indigenous communities.

According to the research report "Australia Art & Craft Market Overview, 2029," published by Bonafide Research, the Australia Art & Craft market is expected to reach a market size of more than USD 660 Million by 2029. The art and craft market in Australia has experienced notable growth over the years, driven by a combination of cultural appreciation, technological advancements, and changing consumer preferences. Initially, the market was modest, rooted in traditional crafts brought by European settlers. However, the gold rushes of the 19th century attracted skilled artisans, leading to the establishment of workshops that produced various handcrafted goods. The 1970s marked a significant revival in the craft sector, supported by the establishment of craft councils and a renewed interest in local craftsmanship influenced by the Arts and Crafts Movement. This period fostered innovation in textiles, ceramics, and jewellery, with artisans increasingly using local materials and techniques. Key players in the Australian art and craft market include both established brands and emerging artisans. Major companies like Crayola and Newell Brands provide a wide range of art supplies, while local artisans contribute unique handmade products. The rise of e-commerce platforms has transformed the landscape, allowing artisans to reach broader audiences and sell directly to consumers. Social media has also played a crucial role in promoting crafts, enabling artists to showcase their work and connect with potential buyers. The popularity of DIY projects has further fueled market growth, as consumers seek personalized and unique items for their homes and gifts. Several factors have contributed to the expansion of the art and craft market in Australia. The increasing demand for sustainable and locally sourced products has encouraged consumers to support local artisans. Additionally, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic led to a surge in home-based creative activities, as people sought new hobbies during lockdowns, thereby increasing demand for art supplies.

Painting and Drawing remains a foundational segment, appealing to artists of all levels. This category includes everything from traditional canvas painting to modern illustration techniques. Events such as local art fairs and exhibitions showcase emerging talents and established artists, fostering a vibrant community of creators. The rise of online platforms has also enabled artists to sell their work directly to consumers, enhancing accessibility and market reach. Paper Crafts involve various techniques like scrapbooking, card making, and origami. This segment has gained traction due to its low entry cost and the ability to create personalized items, making it popular among hobbyists. Workshops and community classes often highlight this craft, encouraging participation and skill development. Kids Crafts focus on nurturing creativity in children through engaging activities such as coloring, clay modeling, and simple DIY projects. This segment has seen growth due to the increasing emphasis on educational programs that promote hands-on learning. Events like craft fairs often feature dedicated sections for children, allowing families to explore creative activities together. The Arts and Crafts Tools segment is critical, providing essential supplies such as brushes, paints, and cutting tools. The growth of this segment is closely linked to the DIY movement, which has surged in popularity, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Retailers have responded by expanding their offerings, making tools more accessible to a broader audience. The Sewing and Fabric segment encompasses a range of activities, including sewing, quilting, and embroidery. This segment has experienced a revival as consumers seek sustainable fashion alternatives and personalized home decor items. Local fabric stores often host classes and events that promote these crafts, fostering community engagement and skill sharing.

The personal use segment encompasses individuals pursuing artistic activities for leisure, relaxation, and self-expression. This category includes hobbyists, enthusiasts, and those who engage in creative endeavors as a form of enjoyment rather than for financial gain. The rise of the DIY movement and the increasing emphasis on mindfulness and mental well-being has fueled the growth of this segment in Australia. Craft activities like painting, sewing, and paper crafting provide an outlet for creativity and a means of stress relief. Community workshops and classes often cater to this segment, fostering social connections and skill development. The personal use segment has also benefited from the COVID-19 pandemic, as people sought new hobbies during lockdowns, leading to a surge in demand for art supplies and craft kits. As Australians increasingly prioritize work-life balance and self-care, the personal use segment is expected to continue growing, with more people discovering the joy and therapeutic benefits of arts and crafts. The commercial use segment caters to businesses, retailers, artisans, and manufacturers seeking to meet consumer demand for handmade goods. In Australia, the commercial use segment has been bolstered by the growing appreciation for locally made, sustainable products. Consumers are increasingly seeking unique, personalized items for home decor, gifts, and fashion accessories. The rise of e-commerce platforms and social media has made it easier for artisans to reach wider audiences and sell their products directly to consumers. Craft fairs, markets, and galleries also provide a platform for artisans to showcase and sell their work. The commercial use segment has also benefited from government initiatives aimed at promoting local craftsmanship and supporting small businesses.

Considered in this report
• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029



Aspects covered in this report
• Art & craft products market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product Type
• Painting and Drawing
• Paper Crafts
• Kids Crafts
• Arts and Crafts Tools
• Others

By Application
• Personal Use
• Commercial Use

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organizations related to the Art & craft products industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.