Ever wondered what the Rare Trades Centre is about? This is your chance to find out
Step inside Australia’s beating heart of heritage arts and trades at the Rare Trades Centre Open Day, our annual event that opens the workshop doors to the public.
Meet some of the makers keeping rare trades alive and see traditional skills in action through live workshops, exhibition displays, and tours.
Whether you’re a seasoned maker, curious beginner or simply love seeing skilled hands at work, come along and get a closer look at the skills, stories, and people behind rare trades.
Live workshops
Explore our studios and see a selection of workshops in progress, from tomahawk making and dry stone walling to African beading.
Fashion collection tour
Unveil the glamour, craftsmanship, and history held deep inside the fashion and textiles heritage collection. Discover the makers, innovators, and trendsetters who shaped, defied, and styled fashion through the ages.
Time: 2pm | Cost: $20 per person Bookings: Bookings essential. Tickets available online
Meet the team
Rare Trades Centre's friendly and knowledgeable staff and volunteers will be on hand to guide you through the Centre and share stories about artisans, programs, and what’s coming up in 2026.
Exhibition program displays
Meet some of our 2027 artisans through their work, from silversmithing by Rachel Grose and Stephen Walsh and forged metal by Sam Bloomfield, to ceramic hand tools by Joanne Linsdell and woven works by Tammy Gilson.
See what's coming up
Get a sneak peek at our 2027 workshop highlights — and be one of the first to book into next year’s activities.
Artist in residence
Meet ceramicist and our inaugural artist in residence Steph Wallace in our Decorative Arts Studio, discover her creative practice and see a selection of her work in the Centre foyer.
Tea & coffee
Grab a cuppa, meet like-minded people and curious minds, and spend some time connecting with the Rare Trades Centre community. Swap stories, share ideas, and get to know the people who make the Centre such a special place.
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