A group of people scatter along the side of a footpath at Royal Park at dusk listening to someone speak. A glow of city buildings and trees surround them.

  • Local Encounters Lab - Expression of Interest (EOI)

  • Co-facilitated by artist Madeleine Flynn and curator Lana Nguyen

    Tuesday 9 to Thursday 11 March 2026

    EOIs Open: Thursday 22 October, 10am 
    EOIs Close: Monday 23 November, 3pm 
    Notification: Monday 14 December

    How to apply
    Up to eight (8) artists will be selected to participate in the Lab. 
    Each participant will receive a $2,000 artist fee and daily morning tea and lunch.

    Who it is for 
    This Lab welcomes artists who are interested in participatory and place-responsive practice, and who are excited by research, relationship-building and creative work that responds to place. 


    Participants will contribute to a shared process of learning, listening and knowledge exchange within North and West Melbourne. 

    You must be located in Melbourne to participate. There are dedicated positions for artists residing in the City of Melbourne.  

  • Format: (000) 000-0000.

  • EOI Questions

    We want you to apply in the format that is easiest for you.  
    Responses can be submitted here as: 

    • Written 
    • Video 
    • Audio 
    • Auslan (we can arrange interpretation or captioning of your video if needed) 

    For each question, there is space to write an answer or include URL link with your preferred format.

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  • Availability 

    To participate in this program you must be available for all Lab dates, the community weekend of events and meeting with Arts House 1 month after the Lab to share proposals.The week of shared studio space to develop project proposals is optional.

    Please note: core Lab activities across Tuesday 9 to Thursday 11 March will take place during the day, with one earlier morning and one evening activity. We will provide a detailed schedule to selected artists when notifications are issued. Please confirm your availability below and make a note of any availability considerations. 

  • Lab: Tuesday 9 to Thursday 11 March 2027
  • Shared Studio Space for Project Proposal Development (optional): Monday 15 to Sunday 21 March
  • Neighbourhood Weekend: Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 March 2027
  • Proposals Due and Meeting with Arts House: 1 month after Lab

  • Access

    The Lab will take place in and around North and West Melbourne, with Arts House at North Melbourne Town Hall serving as the Lab’s home base.

    The Lab will involve extended periods of listening, discussion and writing. A range of seating options will be provided. Elements of the workshop will include outdoor activities including walking in the surrounding landscape and neighbourhoods which sometimes has uneven surfaces.

    Participants can nominate access and support requirements in their EOI. A list of common access requests can be found here.

  • Thank you! We will be in touch on Monday 14 December with the outcome of your EOI.

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