The Old Auction House in Kyneton functioned as an auction house for over ninety years and has been repurposed as a workshop, gallery, store and set of studios for artists and makers. At over 130 years old, the House saw its last auction a decade ago. The family who owned the building had no one to pass it on and put it up for sale. The current owners jumped at the chance to take up the well-known landmark. We spoke to Rhaine about how her family has reinvigorated the building so that it can continue to serve the community through a different avenue, art and crafts.

The Old Auction House takes up a quarter of an acre and was once two buildings that were joined together. The new owners have renovated the House to improve and strengthen it and have tried to keep as much of the original building as possible. They have a glasswork business that has been running for 30 years. At the House, they do repairs, leadlight, fusing and slumping, and mosaics. There are also several silversmiths and woodworkers who use the workshop space and there are three studios that have been rented out. Currently, there is a custom costume maker, a fine artist and Kyneton Craftery. There are plans for more studios to be built once the back part of the House is renovated.

The Old Auction House shop sells handcrafted work from over 100 different makes across Australia. About half of these artisans are from Victoria and a third are living locally in the Macedon Ranges. The wares range from jewellery, babywear, keyrings and gift cards to chopping boards, paintings and vases. There is no charge for the artists to sell their work in the shop and the goods are regularly moved around to ensure that all handicrafts are on show. Selected craft supplies are also available to purchase.

The Old Auction House is open seven days and the gallery exhibitions are free to peruse. Local artists are encouraged to get in touch if they are interested in renting a studio space or exhibiting artwork. Over seventy people come through the House each week for lessons in various crafts so be sure to follow them on social media if you are keen to expand your skills. Why not head to the Old Auction House to do your gift shopping and check out the latest exhibitions by local artists? Support the local community and enjoy market-style shopping no matter the weather!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theoldauctionhouse/

Website: https://www.theoldauctionhouse.com.au/