Tactile Arts Gallery and Studios

Tactile Arts is a member-based, not-for-profit organisation supporting contemporary art and craft in the Northern Territory. Established in 1973, it gives makers and craft practitioners opportunities to develop their skills and share their work through exhibitions, workshops, artist residencies, major events and retail. Proceeds from its activities go towards supporting artists and craftspeople in the Territory.

The gallery and studios are set in the grounds of the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, creating a cultural stop for visitors exploring Darwin. The organisation also operates a retail shop at Parliament House, while its programme connects the public with work across a broad range of disciplines. These include textiles, printmaking, glass, jewellery and ceramics, alongside painting, drawing and sculpture featured through its exhibitions and makers events.

A particular draw is the Tactile Arts Makers Markets, which showcase handmade work by local artists and designers. Depending on the event, visitors can browse textiles, ceramics, jewellery, glass, paintings, drawings and sculpture, as well as homewares, clothing, soaps, candles, beauty products and items for children and babies. The markets are held at different Darwin locations, including the Darwin Waterfront precinct and the lawns of MAGNT, and form part of the city's events calendar.

Tactile Arts suits visitors who want to see locally made work rather than mass-produced souvenirs, as well as people interested in learning how creative work is made. Workshops and access to specialised studio equipment make it relevant to developing makers, while exhibitions, the shop and markets offer a more relaxed visit for solo travellers, groups and families. Check the current programme before visiting, as the experience changes with exhibitions, workshops and scheduled events.