Proposals

PROPOSALS ARE NOW CLOSED FOR 2026.

APPLICATIONS CLOSED SUNDAY 31st AUGUST FOR EXHIBITIONS IN 2026.

STAY TUNED FOR FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES! 

Each year we inviting proposals from current University of Melbourne students for the George Paton Gallery exhibition program. Applications are open to all students, from any discipline or level of experience.

Located at the heart of the Parkville campus in the New Student Precinct, the George Paton Gallery has played a vital role in Australia’s contemporary art history since 1975.

Each exhibition runs for four 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?

Proposals are 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. 

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.

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 UMSU's Creative Arts Officers.