Arts House celebrates a major milestone in 2025 – 20 years as one of Australia’s most dynamic spaces for contemporary art and performance.
For two decades, Arts House has championed experimentation and risk-taking, supporting thousands of artists and arts workers through performances and development programs and presenting over 500 productions and exhibitions.
Founded to support the next generation of artists through bold and inclusive programming, Arts House is a national leader in performance, dance, live art, exhibitions and interdisciplinary work.
The Arts House legacy is shaped by visionary leaders including past Artistic Directors Steven Richardson, Angharad Wynne-Jones, Josh Wright, Emily Sexton, Nithya Nagarajan and Olivia Anderson. Their leadership laid the foundation for an institution known for nurturing new ideas and sparking creative inspirations.
Marking the next chapter, Naomi Velaphi has joined Arts House as its new Head of Programming. A passionate advocate for artist development and community engagement, Velaphi brings a fresh energy to Arts House’s mission.
“Twenty years of Arts House means twenty years of artists daring to imagine new worlds. Across this time Arts House has been a critical engine room for artists to thrive and realise the urgent conversations of our time. I’m honoured to join this legacy and help shape its future,” said Velaphi.
The City of Melbourne Creative and Arts portfolio head, Councillor Philip Le Liu said Arts House has a proud history and even brighter future.
“Arts House is a Melbourne institution and has proudly backed emerging artists for 20 years. This is a milestone worth celebrating and I commend the dedicated team for continuing to foster excellence on the world stage,” said Councillor Le Liu.
Looking ahead, Arts House remains committed to supporting artists, inspiring perceptions and connecting communities through fearless, experimental art.
THE BLOWOUT – Arts House 20th Birthday Celebrations
Honouring 20 years of unforgettable moments at Arts House, THE BLOWOUT is an afternoon and evening art party.
Hosted by Tristan Meecham and Bec Reid (All The Queens Men) and Kamarra Bell-Wykes and Carly Sheppard (A Daylight Connection), THE BLOWOUT brings back iconic artists and performances from across the decades.
“Arts House has played a pivotal role in my development as an artist. It expanded my understanding of what art could be,” says Meecham. “Beyond individual support, Arts House has long fostered a rich and responsive artistic ecology, nurturing bold ideas, sustaining local voices and contributing significantly to the national cultural landscape.”
THE BLOWOUT is the party to celebrate Arts House’s past and future. Expect interactive experiences, throwback performances, killer sets from DJ MzRizk and dancing into the night.
THE BLOWOUT
Arts House – North Melbourne Town Hall, 521 Queensberry Street, North Melbourne
Date: Saturday 26 July 2025 (4.00pm – 10.30pm)
Information and Bookings: www.artshouse.com.au
Image: Naomi Velphi – photo courtesy of Arts House