Sturt has been a hub for craftsmanship, creativity and fostering a sense of community since it was established in 1941.
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The founder Winifred West was determined to give children who left Mittagong Public School, and adults who wanted to learn specialised crafts a place to learn, and be inspired.
Ms West gathered her friends during the midst of World War Two and established the school with most of her own funds.
"Eighty years on, Sturt stands proudly as Winifred's efforts for the future," said head of Sturt Kristie Phelan at the celebration of the design centre's 80th anniversary on November 13.
"I think it's a cultural treasure on our doorstep."
What started with six girls learning to weave, and a few boys mastering woodwork, has transformed into thousands of children and adults mastering a variety of crafts over 80 years.
Many makers from potters, to metal artists to woodworkers, have taught at Sturt and inspired students who have come from far and wide to learn.
Ms West also encouraged the teachers such as potter Les Blakebrough AM to learn about different techniques overseas, and strengthen their skills to teach students at Sturt.
Mr Blakebrough AM pioneered his work with porcelain and glazes at Sturt.
She also invited experts from overseas to bring further knowledge to Sturt, such as German weaver Elisabeth Nagel, who taught at the design centre from 1959 to 2008.
"Countless visitors have come away from Sturt with a renewed appreciation of hand-made, of skills lovingly passing down through generations," the head of Sturt continued.
The oldest design centre in Australia teaches students across the world in a variety of crafts such as jewellery design, millinery, furniture production, ceramics and metal work.
People have the opportunity to participate in summer and winter programs, short courses and weekend classes and stay in the Highlands whilst they are learning.
The gallery also showcases upcoming artists who have trained in the studios.
Artists have the opportunity to leave one of their creations to add to the gallery's permanent exhibition, which contributes to Sturt's legacy.
Highlanders can learn about courses and residencies at Sturt here.
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