Let’s Get the (Crafty) Party Started!

Words by Peppermint

31 August 2026

It’s all creative hands on deck at Museum of Brisbane this spring, with ceramicist Bonnie Hislop and artists Sunday Jemmott and Renee Kire bringing the buzz to two fab Crafty Party events in September and November – on after dark for extra spice!

Look, we’re not saying that life is always better with a bit of creative crafting, but… Actually, that’s exactly what we’re saying. And aren’t we lucky, given that Museum of Brisbane is hosting not one, but TWO of their popular Crafty Party events this spring, inviting everyone to the Museum after dark to get hands-on and create something of their own. Yes, you read right: you’ll be leaving with a one-of-a-kind artwork of your own to brighten your space!

It gets even better, of course: you’ll be inspired by amazing Brisbane artists at each event, sharing their skills and wisdom to help you find your own crafty mojo. Always wondered about the ideas and materials that go into a piece of art? Now’s your chance! No experience needed, just a willingness to give it a go.

Ceramicist Bonnie Hislop is known for her playful sculptures and colourful cast of characters – and on Thursday, 17 September, she’ll host the Crafty Party and celebrate the launch of her new book, Let’s Dabble.

On Thursday, 12 November, dynamic duo Sunday Jemmott and Renee Kire will guide you to create a colourful floral sculpture inspired by their sense of play and bold approach to colour, shape and abstraction.

By now, we’re pretty sure you’re ready to nab your ticket – hooray! Because events like Crafty Party don’t just make us happy; they also support a thriving creative economy and offer cool things for people to see and do. “These special after-hours experiences are a chance for Brisbane audiences to connect directly with the artists shaping our city’s creative scene,” says Zoe Graham, Museum of Brisbane CEO & Director. “Bonnie, Sunday and Renee each bring such a distinct and playful approach to their practice, and Crafty Party gives the community the chance to learn from them in a relaxed, hands-on setting.”

So head this way to secure your spot, either for Thursday, 17 September from 6pm to 8:30pm, or Thursday, 12 November from 6pm to 8:30pm (or both, why not!). Light refreshments and nibbles are included, so why wouldn’t you…

In the meantime, meet the three crafty magicians that will be starting your party…

BONNIE HISLOP

Hi Bonnie! If a stranger approached you at a party and asked you what you do, what would you say?

I generally say I’m a potter, which often starts a really lovely conversation about clay and the other person’s experience with it! The resurgence of ceramics over the past 10 years has been so exciting to witness!

What’s the coolest thing about your new book, Let’s Dabble!?

The coolest thing is probably that I got to make it in collaboration with two of my dear and extremely talented friends Tamara Scheiwe (art direction and design) and Melanie Hinds (photography). We shot the entire book at my house in three sessions, with my baby playing just out of shot and us taking turns to entertain her.

Do you have a mantra or ‘thing’ you do when you have to overcome self-doubt in your creative practice, or try something new, creatively?

I like to remind myself that if I keep going I’ll have kept going and I’ll have all this experience behind me that in years to come will count for so much in itself. If I ever find myself trying to kickstart inspiration I like to think of funny phrases I might use for future pots, or I get a sketchbook out and scribble down anything that springs to mind, whether it’s words or images, even to remind myself of my favourite go-to themes or motifs.

What can Crafty Party-goers expect from their night with you?

A fun night out amongst fellow clay enthusiasts, making one of the projects from Let’s Dabble! We’ll be creating ‘Friend for your feelings’ sculptures from airdry clay. Participants will be able to decorate and take their pieces home on the night! I have a new-found love for airdry clay and the freedom it brings, while also allowing an introduction to ceramic techniques, which can then be transferred to fire-able clay if desired!

Why are events like Crafty Parties a good thing?

I think creative activities that bring people together are so important as a way to get out of our heads for a few hours and make something silly or beautiful ( or both) with our hands instead. It’s also a great opportunity to meet new arty friends.

I like to remind myself that if I keep going I’ll have kept going and I’ll have all this experience behind me that in years to come will count for so much in itself.

SUNDAY JEMMOTT

Hi Sunday! What is your favourite piece of art you’ve ever created, and why?

My favourite piece of art I’ve ever created… Maybe the one that started it all? I drew a self-portrait on my bedroom wall as a young child and hid it behind my pillow. I love it because I was so desperate to draw that a piece of paper wasn’t even an option, it HAD to be my wall. I think it’s a cute echo of how I approach my practice today.

Why is play so important for making and getting in touch with our creative sides?

Play is one of our first human instincts, it is a direct link to our subconscious, our inner magic, and it gives permission for us to be messy and make mistakes. I think that play is the doorway to creativity, they go hand-in-hand with each other. If you allow yourself to play, you can free yourself from adult myths around productivity, seriousness or optimisation. Play is the ultimate form of self-expression.

What would your advice be to people who are afraid to experiment with colour – whether in their art or lives?

Colour is tricky! It can run wild and it can behave in ways you don’t expect. But the only way to overcome that fear is to jump in head first. My advice is that colour doesn’t always have to be bright and loud, it can be quiet and minimal, cheeky, bold or even calm. My relationship to colour changes every day, but the beautiful thing about it is that you have an endless spectrum of hues to explore what speaks to you!

What can Crafty Party-goers expect from their night with you?

Anyone whose idea of a good party is crafting, is in for a TREAT! They can expect lots of colour, a whimsical vibe, fun, and hands-on making guided by Renee and myself.

Why are events like Crafty Parties a good thing?

Any kind of community-oriented event is a wonderful opportunity for connection and blossoming friendships. The Crafty Party allows for first-hand sharing of knowledge, between artists, creatives and craft enthusiasts alike. These events invite everyone to get in and have a go. It is especially important to carve out time to make things with your hands as we find ourselves in a society that continues to prioritise digital connection over human connection. It is also just a whole lot of fun!

Play is one of our first human instincts, it is a direct link to our subconscious, our inner magic, and it gives permission for us to be messy and make mistakes.

RENEE KIRE

Hi Renee! What would you say shaped your art practice the most? And do you have a favourite shape to create or play with?

I think a pivotal point that shaped my art practice was during my Honours year in 2022. I came in intending to ‘go big or go home’, and gained a lot of confidence in myself as an artist and the forms I still work with today. Each shape I have made has been influenced by the one before it, so I couldn’t choose just one favourite. They all have a special place in my practice, showing its progression and growth… But if I had to choose one, it might be Curly Wurly, which is the first form I made that bent in a different direction.

How does the potential for viewer interaction influence how and what you create?

When creating my works, I always try to think about where the work will eventually be situated and how the viewer might interact with it. I love inviting the viewer into my world, so many of the interactive elements I experiment with throughout my practice are based on my own eyesight and visual perception. I like creating opportunities for people to explore the work from different perspectives and experience it in their own way.

Complete the sentence… “I love creating with my hands because…”

I love creating with my hands because I love the process of problem-solving and turning the ideas in my head into physical forms. There is a real labour of love that goes into sculpting, and I’m constantly learning new skills and thinking of new ways to use my hands to bring my ideas to life.

What can Crafty Party-goers expect from their night with you?

They can expect a night full of fun conversations and hands-on crafting with Sunday and me! We’ll be creating together, playing with colour and form, and delving into the playful side of making.

Why are events like Crafty Parties a good thing?

I find events like this are a great way to connect with like-minded people in the community and learn new skills. We can get so wrapped up in our own lives, so it’s nice to take time out of our busy schedules to slow down and get creative.

There is a real labour of love that goes into sculpting, and I’m constantly learning new skills and thinking of new ways to use my hands to bring my ideas to life.