Proposals

PROPOSALS ARE NOW OPEN FOR 2025.

APPLICATIONS CLOSE FRIDAY 8th NOVEMBER FOR EXHIBITIONS IN 2025.

APPLICATION FORM: LINK

In 2024 and 2025, we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the George Paton Gallery, a pivotal space in Australia’s contemporary art scene since the 1970s. As part of these celebrations, we are seeking proposals from current University of Melbourne students for our 2025 exhibition program. Applications are open to all students.

We invite you to submit your proposal for an exhibition at the George Paton Gallery. This is an exciting opportunity for students to exhibit free of charge in a custom-made space at the heart of the New Student Precinct, surrounded by cultural activity. Each exhibition runs for three weeks, and our gallery is divided into Front and Rear galleries. The Front Gallery typically hosts solo exhibitions, while the Rear Gallery features group and curated exhibitions.

Our selection process is guided by three key criteria:

  1. Artistic quality and originality – How does your project demonstrate a high level of skill, craftsmanship, and creativity? We are looking for work that reflects a strong artistic vision and unique perspective, regardless of medium or style.

  2. Relevance and connection to contemporary issues – Does your project engage with current cultural, social, or artistic conversations? How does it contribute to or challenge existing dialogues in today’s art world?

  3. Clarity of vision and feasibility – Is the project well-conceived, with a clear vision that can be practically realized within the gallery space? Are the logistics and timeline realistic for a successful exhibition?

Your proposal will be reviewed by a selection panel consisting of current students, industry professionals, and faculty members, ensuring a diverse range of perspectives in the decision-making process. We look forward to seeing how your project contributes to the vibrant, progressive tradition of the George Paton Gallery.

We also encourage you to come and chat with us about your ideas, even if they are still in the tentative stages. You can email us at gpg@union.unimelb.edu.au to arrange a time to visit the gallery, explore the space, and discuss your proposal. We are happy to provide feedback on draft proposals and offer support throughout the application process.

The George Paton Gallery is located on Level One of the Arts and Culture Building on Monash Road in the New Student Precinct at the Parkville campus. The gallery space measures 5.670 - 6.625 meters wide and 22.360 meters long. There is a built-in niche for invigilating the gallery, a storeroom, and a lift for convenient transport of artwork.

In addition to the gallery, the Arts and Culture Building houses the Arts Lab, Union House Theatres, rehearsal spaces, and the offices of the Arts and Culture staff, including the Creative Arts Officers.

For any inquiries or to schedule a meeting, please contact us at gpg@union.unimelb.edu.au. We welcome ideas for projects that engage viewers and exhibitors, experiment with form and concept, and push beyond conventional boundaries