Since 2013, our program to showcase visual artists has provided free exhibition opportunities for local artists, community groups and schools in Boroondara.
Around 13 community exhibitions have been shown each year, presenting more than 3,480 artworks by over 840 artists.
Behind these figures, it's the personal stories and impact for individual artists that really counts. But don't just take it from us. Here's what exhibiting artists say about the experience:
It builds confidence
Artists say the program creates a supportive environment that helps them feel more confident sharing their work with an audience.
It teaches the practical side of exhibiting
Artists value being hands-on and learning through experience how an exhibition evolves from concept to detailed planning, through to installation and audience engagement.
It offers genuine support from our Arts team
Artists describe feeling encouraged and believed in, with friendly curatorial guidance that makes the process manageable and rewarding.
It provides exposure in a professional gallery setting
Exhibiting at Town Hall Gallery gives artists visibility in a respected public gallery with an engaged local audience.
It can be a stepping stone to future opportunities
Artists often say the experience has led to future exhibitions and given them the confidence to pursue new opportunities.
Yask Desai featured in the group exhibition 'Between Worlds', proudly showcased in 2022.
'I really enjoyed the personal approach that the curatorial team had,' he says. 'You really felt valued from the start, and they took an interest in the work ... how it was going to be presented and what would work best for the show.'
In her own words, the program offered a 'really open and welcoming place' for Clara Batton Smith to focus more on her art, once her kids were a little bit older and she had some more time.
After applying, Clara was selected to feature in 'Common Thread', another 2022 group exhibition at Town Hall Gallery. 'Since that show I've been in 5 or 6 more exhibitions and got a highly commended [award] in an art prize. It really just upped my courage,' she says.
Vanessa Bong was a featured artist the following year. 'Trying to do art and find [my] personal voice was quite hard,' she shares.
Through the exhibition program, Vanessa's inner belief grew stronger that 'I can be vulnerable with my story. I have things that are important to say.'
'Banana' by Vanessa Bong opened in February 2023 at Town Hall Gallery. Thinking back on the experience Vanessa reflects, 'You get a lot of support, you get a lot of belief in you and what you have to do [as an artist].'
She encourages anyone to take the leap and apply. 'The process is so gentle and nice, you'll be really grateful that you showed up for yourself and you'll love seeing your work on the walls,' she says.
Applications for our 2027 Community Exhibitions Program are now open until 14 June.
