Art @ The Thomas: ARI Project Manager

In 2021, after learning about the Renew Fitzroy St project, I rallied artists Robert Lee Davis and Rebecca Garfield to establish an artist-run gallery. Our goal was to support and exhibit local artists in a beautiful, professional space for minimal cost.

Located at 107 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda, the gallery received support through Renew Australia—an initiative that works with local government and landlords to connect creative projects with affordable spaces through their Renew Fitzroy St program.

Unfortunately, Melbournians had no way of anticipating the rolling Covid lockdowns ahead. We ended up spending 60% of our occupancy in lockdown—a huge challenge on every level. Despite the adversity, we pushed forward with optimism and made the most of our initiative. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with locals saying we'd made Fitzroy St feel "like the good old St Kilda" of times past. Clearly, there's a real desire for quality art spaces!

Art @ The Thomas hosted several exhibitions over its four months of operation. You can view all the details on our (now inactive) Facebook page here.

Artists Exhibited: Robert Lee Davis,  Rebecca Garfield, Tanja George, Neroli Henderson, Cinda Manins, Min Simankevicius, Tania Samuel, Tina Wilkins, Cassandra Williams