The World Health Organization says it’s important that creativity is pursued and enjoyed. There’s plenty of that in Canberra, just look… 

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the arts are “uniquely suited to help us understand and communicate concepts and emotions by drawing on all our senses and capacity for empathy”.

With various health benefits, WHO says it is important that creativity is pursued and enjoyed. 

Here are some of Canberra’s top arts and crafts experts.

A calming approach to art and therapy

For Justine Maughan, art studio director and creative arts therapy practitioner, creativity begins with accessibility. 

Offering art classes, workshops and holistic counselling using creative art therapies from her studio in Queanbeyan, Justine says she gives her clients the freedom to slow down and experience the restorative, therapeutic benefits found in the process of making art. 

“From midlife women to teenagers and educators, my work weaves creativity into community life,” she says. 

Justine says creativity and art are vital to health (both physical and mental), as they open a pathway to explore the full spectrum of being human. 

“Creative processes allow us to express and integrate experiences,” she says. 

“What I love most is witnessing the shift that happens in people. They arrive carrying the weight of the day, and they leave calmer, brighter and more connected to themselves.”

Justine’s work has seen clients navigate PTSD, depression, burnout and life’s challenges, as she helps them find new ways to heal and move forward. 

“You don’t need any art experience to join,” she says. “Just a little curiosity and the knowledge that I will guide you through every step.”

Justine runs a Mark Making Monday class for adults that she reckons is the perfect introduction to art. 

“The studio is a welcoming space for anyone seeking creativity, calm and connection,” she says. 

Justine Maughan – Creative Arts Therapy Practitioner. 69-71 Monaro Street, Queanbeyan. Call 0456 308775 or visit justinemaughanholistic.com.au 

A safe place to release your inner-Picasso 

Providing a safe and supportive space for people to release their inner artist, Pinot and Picasso studio manager Melissa Boarer, says their core values align with encouraging creative freedom. 

Unlike other paint-and-sip classes, Melissa says they are constantly on the lookout for new and exciting ways to spruce up their experiences, running from custom collaborations, bespoke arts and “experience enhancers” such as trivia, games, karaoke and even themed decor. 

“The most rewarding part of my job is the joy I get to bring people when they create something,” she says. 

“I love being part of their special occasions.

“I also get a sense of pride when guests are genuinely shocked that they’ve painted a full artwork, especially when they thought they could barely draw a stick figure beforehand.”

Melissa says creativity can be its own form of meditation for the body and mind. 

“It’s a way to switch off from the stresses of everyday life and spend a few hours focusing on something that sparks joy,” she says. 

“It’s such a calming experience and I love that it’s accessible to so many people, regardless of different levels of mobility or mental capacity.” 

Now gearing up for the Christmas season, Melissa recommends people book early to secure a date. 

Pinot and Picasso. Shop 6/54 Benjamin Way, Belconnen. Call 0475 782911 or visit pinotandpicasso.com.au 

Surrounding art with care and a sense of celebration

From family photos, travel mementos and sports jerseys to fine art, textiles and three-dimensional treasures, HUG Framing + Gallery owner, Gemma Lingwood, says every piece is treated with care.

“Not only will the piece look its best, but it will become something to be enjoyed on the wall every day,” she says. 

Gemma says their gallery wall regularly rotates works from Canberra artists, ensuring local talent is given a platform to share their creativity. 

“By framing with care and championing local art, we aim to nurture and celebrate the creative heartbeat of our community,” she says. 

Taking over the store last year, Gemma says her favourite part of the work is seeing the stories behind the artwork. 

“Every project has a meaning,” she says. 

“Whether it’s a child’s drawing, a wedding photo or an original artwork, helping people preserve those stories while creating something visually striking is endlessly rewarding.”

Previously operating under the name Discount Gallery, Gemma says their recent rebrand to HUG Framing + Gallery after more than 30 years reflects what they do best.

“We surround art with care, protection and a sense of celebration,” she says. “Like a hug.”

HUG Framing + Gallery. 50 Weedon Close, Belconnen. Call 6251 3837 or visit hugframing.com.au 

Leading art and craft store celebrates 60 years

For 60 years, Eckersley’s has been one of Australia’s leading arts and crafts retailers. 

“Celebrating 60 years has been a wonderful reminder of how deeply creativity connects us all,” says marketing co-ordinator Christina Misbrener. 

“For us, it’s not just about making a business milestone, it’s about honouring the generations of arts, students, hobbyists and makers who have grown with us.” 

Inspiring creativity by offering quality products and expert advice, Christina says creativity should be within everyone’s reach. 

“We’re committed to providing quality materials at a range of price points so that anyone can create with confidence,” she says. 

“We have created a welcoming space for people of all ages and abilities to explore their artistic side, as well as supporting local community initiatives.” 

Christina says they are more than just a store: “We’re a hub for creativity.

“We welcome everyone, whether you’re browsing for inspiration, stocking up on supplies or looking for advice on a new project.”

In celebration of its 60-year anniversary, Christina says they look forward to many more years of creating, learning and celebrating art together with the local community.

Eckersley’s Art & Craft. Belconnen, Braddon and Phillip. Visit eckersleys.com.au 

Supporting the work of local makers and artists

Craft + Design Canberra is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting artists, designers and makers at every stage in their careers, says CEO, Jodie Cunningham. 

Committed to promoting and celebrating excellence in contemporary craft and design, Jodie says their city centre shop presents hundreds of works created by makers from across the region. 

“Our gallery showcases a dynamic program of exhibitions that change every six weeks,” she says. 

“Together, these spaces provide an inspiring destination for anyone interested in high-quality craft and design.”

Open to all, Jodie says members receive benefits including discounts and exclusive invitations to events.

“We also deliver a year-round program of public workshops designed for participants of every skill level,” she says. 

With upcoming events, including the Craft + Design Canberra Festival, the Craft + Design Canberra Open Studios, the Arts Organisations Open Day Program and the Craft + Design Canberra Undercurrent Design Market, Jodie says there will be plenty of opportunities to see some of Canberra’s best in jewellery, class, ceramics, textiles and diverse creative mediums. 

Craft + Design Canberra. Wednesday to Saturday, 12pm-4pm. Upstairs North Building, 180 London Circuit. Call 6262 9333 or visit craftanddesigncanberra.org

A mix of art, science and mindfulness

Combining artists, environmentalists and scientists under one roof, NatureArt Lab is a one-of-a-kind institution that brings together art, nature and mindfulness, says founder Julia Landford. 

Winner of several Telstra Best of Business Awards, Julia says NatureArt Lab has created an active and amazing community full of “wonderful skilled teachers and artists with all levels of experience”. 

“Art and nature are great for health and wellbeing,” she says. 

Established in 2017, Julia founded the organisation after growing increasingly concerned about rising extinct species.

Combining a love of the outdoors, art and three decades of industry experience, Julia’s vision is the largest employer of artists within the ACT and covers classes in various art mediums, including drawing, colour pencil, scratchboard, mixed media and embroidery, printmaking and watercolour. 

Classes range from scientific illustration to watercolour paintings and Julia says she’s built a community who cares and advocates for the environment. 

Now accepting new artists, students will find the room packed with art supplies, science equipment and natural history items. 

Alongside their courses and social art sessions, NatureArt Lab hosts nature tours, taking students to see biodiversity in Australia with everything from turtles at Heron Island, insects at Atherton Tablelands and fungi in Tasmania. 

They also offer nature tours overseas and have two spots available for their upcoming Galapagos and Amazonian Ecuador adventure, travelling with Julia, entomologist husband Alan, and award-winning photographer/evolutionary biologist Dr Damien Esquerre. 

NatureArt Lab, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith. Call 0414 342839, or visit natureartlab.com.au