Patrick Francis - VCAT Exhibition 2015-16
Artwork on display at Victorian Civil & Administrative Tribunal
55 King Street, Melbourne 3000. Tel : 1800 133 055
Arts Project Australia artists brighten up hallways and hearing rooms at VCAT
July 15, 2015 12:00am
Julia Irwin - Northcote Leader
HEARING rooms and halls at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) are being transformed into a gallery in a new partnership with Northcote’s Arts Project Australia.
More than 60 landscapes and abstract works reflecting the themes of Australia, Melbourne, diversity and justice will be installed under the year-long lease agreement with the studio.
More than 11,000 people coming through the doors of VCAT each month will see the works.
The partnership with the VCAT is another feather in the cap for the artists at Arts Project Australia, arguably the most successful studio gallery in Melbourne, with artists last year paid more than $150,000 in sales for their works.
But the proceeds from the leasing arrangement, (the amount is under wraps due to a commercial-in-confidence agreement) will not go to individual artists but back into studio.
“The money earned from leasing Arts Project Australia’s artworks goes directly into the running costs of the studio, so that all 115 artists benefit from having access to high quality materials, mentoring and professional development opportunities,” gallery manager Sim Luttin said.
Established in 1974, Ms Luttin said Arts Project Australia had built an enviable reputation nationally and internationally for the creative and individual studio philosophy and outstanding artwork produced.
VCAT president Justice Greg Garde (OK) said he and others involved with the tribunal were thrilled when Arts Project Australia agreed to decorate the walls.
“As part of our refurbishment of our 55 King St venue, we wanted to install some colourful paintings and looked for a community partnership that reflects our values and commitment to the Victorian community,” Justice Garde said.
“I’ve sat in a lot of courts and hearing rooms and the walls are often empty and bare.
“These artworks will make VCAT a more welcoming, vibrant and visually interesting place to visit.”
Mr Garde flagged the possibility of an ongoing relationship with Arts Project Australia beyond the initial 12 month agreement.
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/north/arts-project-australia-artists-brighten-up-hallways-and-hearing-rooms-at-vcat/news-story/11b94d75213a445c81379e7f23a3ee85
Artwork / details courtesy Patrick Francis, VCAT & Arts Project Australia