Today it was brought home to us with a vengeance why we need every moment of the 14 weeks we have allowed for this Tasmanian tour. Take a look at these two photos:
Had someone suggested to us before our departure that we should set aside at least a couple of hours to explore this stark, austere shed-like building near the waterfront in Burnie we would have said they were crazy.
But once again the old cliche “Never judge a book by its cover” has proven to be true, and accordingly I apologise to Terroir (the Architects) and Tamara Donnellan (the Project Manager) for my first impression description of their pride and joy.
The Makers Workshop is a MUST when you are in Burnie. Inside its uninviting facade (oops ... sorry again Tamara) is an absolute treasure trove of beautifully presented historical exhibits relating to Burnie and the north west region of Tasmania. But that’s only the beginning. As the name “Makers” would suggest, here you’ll also find studios occupied by real local craftspeople creating, displaying and selling their unique wares right there before you.
I was absolutely blown away by the beauty of the handcrafted jewellery in sterling silver and art glass produced by ex-Argentinian compatriot Carmen Reuter. Look at just two of the magnificent pendants and earrings on display in her studio.
I have to confess I just could not resist buying Barbara some of Carmen’s work and the expression of joy on my darling’s face was matched only by the look on mine when Carmen revealed the price. I was expecting her to be asking hundreds more ... but I still had the temerity to ask for a Senior’s Discount ... and to my surprise it was readily granted. Before we arrived a milliner had been demonstrating her skills and my camera refused to go past her studio until I allowed it to feast its lens on these mouthwatering pieces:
Burnie of course built its name primarily on wood pulp and paper manufacture so it is appropriate that some of the most awe-inspiring exhibits in the Makers Workshop are the life-size paper mache sculptures created by Pam Thorne and Ruth Rees. The photo which follows is portion of a poster in the building and I humbly acknowledge the photographer who took the shot of these two talented ladies.
There is also a coffee shop (great cappuccino too), a Visitor’s Information Centre, plus a gift shop selling both the usual Chinese made kitsch such touristy outlets always pedal, and some surprisingly beautiful locally made keepsakes as well.
I left that place with its ugly facade (oh, sorry once again Tamara) absolutely exhilarated and so glad we had taken the time, against our better judgement, to walk through it's doors
Tomorrow ... a new day dawns
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