Malvern Artists Society

Malvern Artists Society: A Long-Running Artist-Led Space

{"text":"The Malvern Artists Society started back in 1957 when ten artists got together and decided to formalise things properly. By 1970 they'd set up their own Art Centre. Today you'll find the gallery at 1297-1299 High Street in Malvern, VIC 3144, right in the middle of the action in this culturally active inner-eastern suburb. It's run as a not-for-profit by members and a volunteer board, which means it stays focused on what artists actually need rather than chasing money. People from all over Melbourne's east come through to see what's on, and it works as a genuine grassroots space for contemporary art in Victoria. This is a welcoming space for artists at any stage of their career, from beginners through to those with decades of painting experience."}.

{"text":"The Society takes an open-door approach. They actively recruit new members across all experience levels and backgrounds, and they make a point of valuing people regardless of gender, sexuality, culture, body type, or ability. That inclusive mindset, combined with nearly seven decades of running continuously, has earned Malvern Artists' Society a solid reputation. It's become a place where artists at every stage of their career can get work out there and develop their skills.

Contemporary, Abstract and Figurative Work from Member Artists

The gallery runs a program of contemporary, abstract and figurative art made by its members, which gives a pretty good sense of what working artists in the area are up to. The core of the calendar is members' seasonal exhibitions like the Autumn and Winter shows, displaying work in all sorts of styles and mediums. You get a mix of newer and more experienced artists on the walls, so there's plenty to see if you want to understand what's happening in contemporary art around Melbourne right now.

The gallery also does solo shows and smaller group exhibitions alongside these seasonal events. The Peter Smales exhibition runs from 29 May-7 June and lets you get a closer look at individual artists' practice. Malvern Artists Society regularly shows painting, drawing, mixed media and other work, so you're likely to come across something new each visit.

Year-Round Classes and Workshop Programs

Malvern Artists Society runs proper classes throughout the year, which is what really sets them apart from just being a gallery. You can sign up for painting, watercolour, drawing, life drawing and mixed media taught by working artists and trained instructors. There's Abstract Explorations in Colour, Composition and Mixed Media with Narelle Callen (Fridays, 9 weeks), Building Depth with Acrylic Paint from Lucy Fekete (Tuesdays), and Drawing Fundamentals with Salvatore Trigila (Mondays). All of these run in nine-week blocks so you build up your skills step by step.

{"text":"The classes are open to complete beginners and experienced artists alike. Everyone can join to develop their skills or explore new techniques. Members enjoy discounted rates, making regular participation more affordable. Malvern Artists Society functions as a creative hub where you can view exhibitions and work on your own art in the company of fellow artists and experienced practitioners.

Prize-Winning Exhibitions and Emerging Artist Opportunities

MAS runs a solid program of exhibitions that give proper recognition to its members' work. The Barbara Peake Prize and the C.E.G. Beveridge Prize come around each autumn and winter respectively, giving artists meaningful chances to get noticed. The society actively welcomes submissions from all levels, and there are spots available for 2026, 2027 and 2028, so if you're serious about showing your work, you can slot into a gallery with actual standing in the community.

The result is a calendar that mixes regular members' shows, solo artist exhibitions and prize events. It gives people real reasons to aim for something while keeping the door open. Artists at any stage, whether they're just starting out or well established, can find genuine opportunities to get their work shown and connect with other practitioners in Melbourne's art community.

Visit, Learn and Connect in Central Malvern

You'll find the gallery on High Street in Malvern, easy to reach by bus, train or car. It's open seven days a week during exhibitions, with times listed on the flyers for each show. The office keeps Tuesday and Friday hours from 10am to 3pm if you want to ask about memberships or other enquiries. For workshop details, check the individual class timetables. Ring them on +61 3 9822 7813 or email malvart@optusnet.com.au for the latest on what's on, class times, or membership info.

Malvern Artists' Society has been around for nearly seventy years, supporting artists and running classes for people who want to develop their practice. The gallery shows contemporary and abstract work, as well as figurative pieces. If you paint or sculpt, or just want to see what other artists are doing and meet people doing the same, this is a good place to come.