Artists invited to design public work for plinth

CREATIVES in the region and beyond are being called on to develop a temporary three-dimensional or sculptural artwork to be located at the recently-opened Intercultural Garden.

The commission is being overseen by the City of Ballarat and Multicultural Arts Victoria (MAV), with expressions of interest opening early last month for individuals or groups to put forward a creative work for temporary display at the site’s empty plinth.

A statement via MAV’s website said the initiative is about amplifying the message behind the space.

“The Ballarat Empty Plinth Project seeks to intrigue, interpret, interrupt, and involve the local community, encouraging contemporary narratives that complement the city’s rich cultural heritage,” the statement said.

“This annual initiative is part of the City of Ballarat’s Temporary Public Art Program, providing a platform for creative voices to respond to global issues within a local context.

“Designed in collaboration with the community, the gardens are a gathering space for cultural exchange and celebration. Key features include a circular display garden, a community flagpole, picnic areas, and the Empty Plinth, a dedicated space for temporary public art.”

Working with a proposed total budget of $25,000, the successful piece will be displayed from May next year through to May 2026 before a new work replaces it, similar to the ever-changing mural at the Annexe Wall near the Art Gallery of Ballarat.

The Intercultural Gardens were opened in early September and are based near City Oval at the intersection of Sturt and Pleasant Streets.

The launch was attended by the City of Ballarat with its intercultural advisory committee, as well as local schoolchildren and multicultural groups.

Applications close at 10am on 20 January, with the successful artist to be chosen in early February.

To submit an expression of interest as well as view the application form, visit the MAV website.