For three decades, the Kingston Butter Factory Arts and Crafts Co-op has been an integral thread in the city’s art community, but it could be lost if they do not find a new home by December.
After 33 years, it is now confirmed the co-op will not return to the KBF when the precinct’s multi-million-dollar revamp draws to a close, and they need the community’s help to find a new home.
The co-op has two months to find a new venue after missing out on a space in the tender process for the historic cottage site, awarded to Devon Pixies Teahouse.
Co-op president Kathy Windsor is calling on the community for ideas for affordable places their non-for-profit can move to.
“We need help, please, we need to find somewhere for our arts and crafts to trade at a reasonable price,” she said.
She is trying to keep as close to business as usual. Artists are working hard on making Christmas decorations, blankets, and clothing, while she sweats on where they will go when the lease runs out.
“I don’t want the mental health of all my ladies while they’re home thinking they’ve got to stay in bed all day, vegetate, and can’t do their craft,” she said.
“That’s not a good thing.”
They have been temporarily based next to the Logan Central Library while the tender occurred. Their lease runs out in December.
“Devon Pixie’s got the contract, and we wish her all the best, but we’re left out high and dry,” Ms Windsor said.
Co-op secretary Jenny Pickvance is disappointed by the outcome given their hard work over the last 33 years to promote and bring visitors to the KBF before commercial interest was shown in it.
“The only reason that place stayed open is because we were there, the museum was there, and Bev Parker Dance Academy was there,” she said.
The co-op is open from Monday to Saturday. They make and sell their arts, crafts, and edible goodies for the price of pocket money, run workshops, constantly give back to charities, and have a special role in reducing the impacts of isolation among the elderly.
Cr Teresa Lane said they are an asset to the community.
“Kingston Butter-Factory Arts & Craft Inc. is a great local community group that encourages seniors from around Logan to participate in arts and crafts,” she said.
“They have an amazing array of handmade goods that I regularly purchase for family and friends and are a special stop on a lot of bus tours undertaken in the city.”
Do you know a place where the the Arts and Crafts co-op can go? Email media@mycitylogan.com.au
