Open Space Program

Open Space

Expressions of Interest now open

The Open Space Program offers local artists and community groups the opportunity to present a two-week exhibition at the School of Arts.

Successful participants will receive in-kind support valued up to $1,000, including hands-on assistance to help remove barriers and bring exhibitions to life.

Included in this opportunity is venue space and exhibition support from Bundaberg Regional Galleries’ technical exhibition officers, including consultation and capacity-building support regarding curation, exhibition planning, installation, demount, lighting, display and other technical and practical requirements associated with presenting an exhibition in the space.

About the Open Space Program

The Open Space program will provide short-term exhibition opportunities at the Bundaberg School of Arts, supporting artists to present work in a professional, accessible gallery setting.

Each grant will offer two weeks (14 days) of access to the Bundaberg School of Arts, including:

  • installation
  • exhibition period
  • demount

The funding will be used to remove financial and logistical barriers that often prevent artists from exhibiting, particularly emerging artists, culturally diverse practitioners, First Nations artists and community-led projects. By covering venue access and associated costs, the program allows artists to focus on artistic quality, community engagement and professional development, rather than affordability.

The Bundaberg School of Arts is an accessible, central and well-known community space, making it suitable for a wide range of audiences and participants. Short-term exhibitions provide a low-risk, high-impact opportunity for artists to test new work, present first exhibitions or engage local audiences in meaningful ways.

Open Space is a RADF-funded initiative by Bundaberg Regional Council.

This program supports local Council and RADF priorities by:

  • Encouraging local artistic practice and participation
  • Supporting diverse voices and storytelling
  • Building professional pathways for artists
  • Increasing access to arts and culture across the region

The Open Space program is artist-led, with participants determining the content, format and focus of their exhibitions. Council’s role is limited to providing access, coordination and support, ensuring the program remains flexible, responsive and community-driven.

This initiative will activate the Bundaberg School of Arts through regular, rotating exhibitions, strengthening its role as a creative hub while delivering clear public benefit for artists and audiences alike.

Assessment

EOIs will be assessed on the quality of your work, readiness to exhibit, engagement with the community, alignment with program priorities and your need for support.

You will be required to provide images or links to your work.

All applicants must hold public liability insurance.

Apply here

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