Introducing the Ballarat Empty Plinth Project: A Call for Expressions of Interest
Multicultural Arts Victoria (MAV) is proud to announce an exciting new opportunity for culturally-diverse artists: the Ballarat Empty Plinth Project. This initiative invites artists, either as individuals or teams, to submit Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the creation of a temporary 3D or sculptural artwork to be displayed at the Empty Plinth in the newly established Intercultural Gardens, City of Ballarat.
Expression of Interest Now Open for Ballarat Empty Plinth Project. December 2024.
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. 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.
Located at the intersection of Sturt and Pleasant Streets, near City Oval, the Intercultural Gardens were officially opened in September 2024. 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.
The commissioned artist will receive a total budget of $25,000 (ex GST), which encompasses all aspects of production, materials, insurance, and installation. This is a unique chance for an early-career artist to contribute to Ballarat’s vibrant cultural scene by creating a site-specific, small-scale sculptural artwork that will remain on display for one year.
MAV and the City of Ballarat will support the selected artist throughout the project, from concept development in collaboration with the community to installation and public engagement.
Timeline
Applications Open: 3 December 2024
Online Artist Information Session: 18 December 2024 - 6:00pm-7:00pm
Applications close: 20 January 2025 - 10:00am
Artist will be selected by: 7 February 2025
Concept Development to be completed by: 14 March 2025
Installation completed by: 19 May 2025
Deinstallation by: May 2026
How to Apply
Artists are encouraged to apply via an online application form. The application process does not require a concept submission but will evaluate the following:
Artist Bio and Portfolio (40%)
Role of the Sculpture in Contemporary Society (15%)
Approach to the Commission (20%)
Connection to the Site and Cultural Heritage (15%)
Local Content and Engagement (10%)
To learn more about this project, the process or to submit an EOI, see: Ballarat Empty Plinth Project
The Ballarat Empty Plinth Project is being administered by MAV in collaboration with the City of Ballarat. MAV and City of Ballarat acknowledges the traditional custodians of the City of Ballarat; the Wadawurrung and to the North of the municipality the Dja Dja Wurrung Peoples, and recognise their continuing connection to the land and waterways.
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