Spring forward in the Backspace

EARLY-career visual artists who are five-to-ten years into their creative practice and are strongly connected to Ballarat are being encouraged to apply to exhibit their work in the Art Gallery of Ballarat’s Backspace.

Over a 12-month period, nine emerging artists, designers, or craftspeople will have the opportunity to showcase their work in what is a 30-square-metre space.

“We’re looking for really focused exhibition proposals with clear, set ideas, preferably designed for a space this size,” co-curator Kiri Smart said.

Gallery director Louise Tegart said the organisation is seeking to support a wide range of creators.

“The Backspace gallery is a key part of the City of Ballarat’s support for visual arts in the community and we would like the exhibition program to reflect the increasing diversity in Ballarat and the region,” she said.

“We are also interested to see how the exhibition proposals might be tied to important community events such as Harmony Fest, Reconciliation Week, and Seniors Week.”

Ms Tegart said a solo exhibition, like those offered through Backspace, can be a professional development opportunity.

“[They’ll] work with professional staff at the gallery in selecting and preparing work for exhibition, in promoting their exhibition to the public, and in dealing with members of the public face-to-face,” she said.

Co-curator Julie McLaren said she encourages interested artists to check out the types of applicants that have been successful in the past on the gallery’s website.

“A cohesive body of work that tells a particular story is what this space is all about,” she said.

A free information session will be held for people interested in applying on Wednesday, 26 April, 5.30pm to 7pm, and attendees are required to register.

Applications will close at midnight on Sunday, 28 May.