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Ballarat Arts Groups Thrive Using Temporary Venues and Community Hubs

The Art Gallery of Ballarat and local performing arts groups maintain exhibitions and events through alternative spaces and community venues.

By Ballarat Things-to-do Desk · Published 25 July 2026

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The Art Gallery of Ballarat closed in March 2025 for building upgrades scheduled to last until early 2026, shifting its exhibitions to the new Backspace Gallery on Mair St. This temporary arrangement keeps visual arts programming accessible while the main site undergoes work.

Visual Arts Programming Continues

The 11th Ballarat International Foto Biennale ran with the theme Lifeforce and featured more than 360 photographers displayed across 100 locations until 19 October 2025. The inaugural Sunnyside immersive art project, directed by artist Morag Myerscough, occupied the historic Mining Exchange and surrounding city streets for 17 days from 6 to 23 November 2025. These events supplied concrete programming dates and venues during the gallery closure period.

Ballarat Performing Arts Community, formed in 2023, operates the Ballarat Performing Arts Centre on Neill St as a not-for-profit space dedicated to local performing arts groups. The centre functions as a central point for rehearsals, performances and community gatherings tied to theatre and music.

Seasonal Events Anchor the Calendar

The Ballarat Blues Festival took place on 24 August, while the Melbourne International Film Festival Ballarat screenings ran from 22 to 24 August. Both events added live music and film options to the August schedule and drew on established local infrastructure.

Residents seeking current listings can consult the visitballarat.com.au site or the bpacballarat.org pages for venue updates and any adjustments to the Art Gallery reopening timeline.

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