The Urbanite had the pleasure of exploring the QAGOMA Store Christmas Design Market last weekend, which was a vibrant celebration of local talent and craftsmanship. It was a chance to dive into the Brisbane creative scene and discover unique, high-quality gifts straight from the hands of the makers.
From tactile ceramics and stunning wearable art to expressive digital prints, the market provided an inspiring snapshot of Queensland’s diverse creative community. Here is a look at the history of this festive showcase and a spotlight on six talented creatives we met.
The Heart of Brisbane’s Handcrafted Christmas: QAGOMA Market History
The QAGOMA Store Christmas Design Market has long been a beloved feature of Brisbane’s festive season. Held annually, typically in the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) forecourt, this highly anticipated event showcases over 80 independent local artisans from Queensland and beyond. The market focuses on carefully curated, locally produced products spanning ceramics, jewellery, homewares, clothing, and more, providing a crucial platform for makers to sell directly to the public.
This commitment to local design runs deep; the QAGOMA Design Market was in its 14th year as of 2020, suggesting its origins are rooted around 2007. While it temporarily shifted online during the pandemic, the market remains dedicated to supporting the businesses and practices of local creators, ensuring that Brisbane’s Christmas shopping includes thoughtful, unique, and handcrafted pieces.
Six Creatives Defining Brisbane Design
We were thrilled to meet six makers whose passion and unique vision were on full display.
1. Felix Fischmann from dA cat 96
Felix Fischmann, who operates under the name dA cat 96, is a mixed media talent specialising chiefly in lino prints and digital art. He achieves a unique style by merging the visual language of abstract painting and surrealism with a vivid, cartoon-like playfulness. The themes of emotion and expression are central to his creations, which are carefully designed to be open-ended and invite individuals to connect with the striking visuals on a deep and personal level.
2. Mika from MIKAs DESIGN
Mika, of MIKAs DESIGN, is a jewellery maker who creates innovative, lightweight wearable art. Originally a graphic designer, Mika pivoted to jewellery out of a desire to create pieces that were stylish yet comfortable and simple to wear—a need inspired by her mother. Her collection often features minimalist and bold designs crafted from soft, non-toxic sponge rubber (neoprene) and secured with easy-to-use magnetic clasps, offering a modern take on comfort and style.
3. Maki from Maki’s Art
Maki, from Maki’s Art, shares the beauty of Japanese culture through her exquisite origami jewellery. Every piece, from earrings to necklaces, is delicately hand-folded using washi paper and then set and made water-resistant with resin. Inspired by her grandmother, who folded cranes daily, Maki incorporates the origami crane—a powerful symbol of happiness, good luck, and a long life—into her unique, handmade accessories.
4. Paula Boo from Paula Boo
Paula Boo is a versatile fibre artist and musician whose work is deeply connected to Quandamooka Country (Minjerribah/Tjerrangerri/Terrangee), where she lives and works. Her artistic practice includes weaving workshops and commissions, creating beautiful tactile art. As a musician, her acoustic soul style blends her French Canadian, Lebanese, and Norwegian roots, celebrating her life journey and profound love for the natural world.
5. John Brighenti, from Brighenti Design Studios.
John Brighenti, of Brighenti Design Studios, is a Brisbane-based artist who specialises in bespoke pieces “inspired by nature”. His captivating work brings the outdoors in, using a diverse range of natural materials, including salvaged timber, ceramics, moss, and resin. John’s creations highlight the elemental forces of nature, resulting in highly aesthetic and functional pieces, from unique lighting to sculptural objects.
6. Kathy Valks from Belly Fire Pottery
Kathy Valks is a “clay artist” behind Belly Fire Pottery who focuses on exploring historical and traditional techniques in her ceramics. Working from her Bargara studio, Kathy takes inspiration from natural, found objects like coral, sea forms, and timber discovered on local beaches. Her resulting pottery is sinuous, organic-looking, and tactile, ranging from everyday items like “chubby mugs” and whimsical mozzie coil holders to large, evocative sculptures.
