Malvern Artists Society

A Vibrant Artist-Run Gallery Rooted in Malvern's Creative Community

Malvern Artists' Society stands as one of Melbourne's longest-established artist communities, founded in 1957 by a dedicated group of ten artists and formally established with its own Art Centre in 1970. Located at 1297–1299 High Street in Malvern, the gallery occupies a landmark position in the heart of this culturally rich inner-eastern suburb, easily accessible to art lovers across Melbourne's eastern suburbs and beyond. As a not-for-profit, member-run organisation managed by a voluntary board, MAS represents a genuine grassroots approach to contemporary art in Victoria—a space where artists of all levels come together to create, exhibit and develop their practice in a welcoming, inclusive environment.

The Society's commitment to providing accessible artistic experience extends beyond its exhibition spaces. MAS actively welcomes new members—from absolute beginners to experienced artists—and continues to celebrate and value people of all backgrounds, genders, sexualities, cultures, bodies and abilities. This inclusive ethos, combined with nearly seven decades of continuous operation, has made Malvern Artists' Society a trusted institution where both emerging and established practitioners can pursue their artistic goals.

Contemporary, Abstract and Figurative Work from Member Artists

The gallery's exhibition program showcases contemporary, abstract and figurative art created by its membership, reflecting the diverse approaches and interests of working artists in the region. Members' seasonal exhibitions form the backbone of the gallery's calendar, featuring regular Member's Autumn and Winter Exhibitions—both of which highlight achievements across multiple styles and mediums. These carefully curated seasonal shows provide a platform for emerging voices as well as established practitioners, offering visitors genuine insight into the breadth of contemporary artistic practice across Melbourne.

Beyond the core members' exhibitions, MAS also hosts focused solo and smaller group exhibitions, such as the upcoming Peter Smales exhibition (29 May–7 June), which bring deeper engagement with individual artists' work and creative directions. The gallery consistently demonstrates a commitment to diverse representation and regularly features work spanning painting, drawing, mixed media and beyond—creating a dynamic environment where visitors can encounter fresh perspectives and contemporary approaches to traditional and experimental artistic practices.

Year-Round Classes and Workshop Programs

Beyond its exhibition offerings, Malvern Artists' Society operates a comprehensive creative learning program that makes it far more than a passive viewing experience. The gallery regularly enrolls students in courses covering painting, watercolour, drawing, life drawing and mixed media—delivered by practising artists and qualified teachers. Current offerings include Abstract Explorations in Colour, Composition and Mixed Media led by Narelle Callen (Fridays, 9-week courses), Building Depth with Acrylic Paint with Lucy Fekete (Tuesdays), and Drawing Fundamentals with Salvatore Trigila (Mondays), all running across structured nine-week terms designed to build skills progressively and nurture creative confidence.

These classes are explicitly welcoming to all experience levels, from curious beginners with no prior training to practising artists seeking fresh inspiration and new techniques. Members enjoy discounted participation rates, making the learning pathway particularly accessible for those invested in the community. This educational dimension transforms MAS into a complete artistic ecosystem—a place where visitors can not only view contemporary work but actively develop their own practice alongside peers and mentors, fostering the kind of continuous creative development that underpins vibrant artistic communities.

Prize-Winning Exhibitions and Emerging Artist Opportunities

MAS maintains a professional curatorial calendar featuring prize-winning exhibitions that recognise artistic achievement within the membership. The Barbara Peake Prize and C.E.G. Beveridge Prize form recurring highlights of the autumn and winter exhibition seasons respectively, elevating member work and creating meaningful recognition opportunities. The gallery actively encourages submissions from established and emerging artists, with exhibition proposals for 2026, 2027 and 2028 currently open—making it possible for serious practitioners to secure exhibition time within a respected institutional framework.

This combination of regular seasonal members' exhibitions, individual artist showcases and prize-winning programs creates a structured yet dynamic exhibition calendar that rewards achievement while maintaining accessibility. Whether you're an emerging artist testing your practice in a supportive environment or an established practitioner seeking exhibition opportunities, Malvern Artists' Society offers genuine pathways to professional presentation and peer engagement within Melbourne's contemporary art landscape.

Visit, Learn and Connect in Central Malvern

The gallery's central Malvern location on High Street makes it easily accessible by public transport and car, situated within a neighbourhood known for its creative and cultural vibrancy. The gallery operates seven days a week during exhibitions, with specific times noted on exhibition flyers, while the office maintains Tuesday–Friday hours (10am–3pm) for enquiries and membership information. Those interested in classes should refer to individual workshop timetables. For current exhibition details, class schedules or membership information, contact Malvern Artists' Society on +61 3 9822 7813 or malvart@optusnet.com.au.

Whether you're seeking a contemporary art gallery experience, looking to develop your own artistic practice, or searching for community among like-minded creators, Malvern Artists' Society welcomes visitors and prospective members. With nearly seventy years of commitment to supporting artists and fostering inclusive creative spaces, MAS continues to be an essential destination for anyone interested in contemporary art, abstract practice or figurative work in Melbourne's eastern suburbs.