Collaborators announced for debut Craft and Design Week

January 18, 2026 BY Evie Lamb

Teamwork: Spencer Harrison is a multidisciplinary artist known for his vibrant explorations of geometric abstraction. He will join forces with glass artist Nick Doran Adams in one of many creative collaborations in Ballarat's inaugural Craft and Design Week. Photos: SUPPLIED. LEFT: Glass artist Nick Doran Adams's practice includes hot sculpting and kiln forming.

WHAT happens when a blacksmith joins forces with a decorative sculptor who explores the fragility of gypsum?

Ballarat locals can find out later this year in one of the creative collaborations lined up for the city’s inaugural Craft and Design Week.

The new event supersedes the annual Craft Lab event and will take place in the historic Mining Exchange building over 1 to 10 May.

It will involve 13 established creatives who will participate in six different duo, or trio, collaborations combining talents across a wide range of disciplines.

Glass art, geometric design, zero-waste fashion, jewellery, ceramics, fibre and fabrics, fine art, sculpture and contemporary blacksmithing are among the areas of expertise represented.

Glass artist Nick Doran Adams’ practice includes hot sculpting and kiln forming.

The new creative feature event builds on the groundwork of Craft Lab, which has been acknowledged as having successfully supported the local craft sector for the past five years.

It is also in keeping with Ballarat’s commitments as a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art, fostering innovation, sustainability, and cultural connection.

Following a competitive application process, the 13 selected collaborators are now set to participate in a development program, culminating in a curated exhibition and public program featuring workshops, talks, retail opportunities, and immersive experiences.

“[The new event] srengthens Ballarat’s position as a national leader in craft and design, while creating opportunities for artists and industry to connect with community in new and exciting ways,” Ballarat mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves said.

The inaugural theme, Bound, will showcase collaborations between Spencer Harrison and Nick Doran Adams, Darren Rousch and Naomi Clayton, Jude Ng and Dearne Millst, Minna Graham and Bernadette Aitken, Kerith Holmes, Jordy Bos and Jessica Larm, and Tiffany Titshall and Jayne Newgreen.