The Victorian Government is ushering in a new era for the creative communities of Melbourne’s west with work kicking off the transformation of Footscray Community Arts.
Parliamentary Secretary for Creative Industries and Member for Footscray Katie Hall recently kicked off the $8.7 million redevelopment of the outdoor space of the iconic creative and cultural hub.
“This exciting redevelopment will cement Footscray Community Arts as a vital hub for creativity and culture in Melbourne’s west, offering more space for our diverse community to come together, share stories, and showcase talent,” said Parliamentary Secretary for Creative Industries and Member for Footscray, Katie Hall. “With improved accessibility and beautiful new spaces, we’re ensuring this iconic centre remains welcoming and inspiring for all who visit.”
Celebrating 50 years in 2024, the redevelopment of the Footscray Community Arts includes a new multi-use, outdoor performance space with year-round weather protection and improved disability and mobility access.
Landscaping works and new planting will also take place, as well as the integration of artwork by Yorta Yorta, Wurundjeri and Wiradjuri visual artist, Moorina Bonini. Once complete, Footscray Community Arts will be able to host outdoor music events, cultural ceremonies, performances, talks and workshops – with a focus on community-led programming for the diverse communities who call Footscray home.
The redevelopment has been designed by MGS Architects and Simone Bliss Landscape Architects, with leadership from Footscray Community Arts’ Indigenous Advisory Group who have worked closely with the teams to embed First Peoples culture into the design and landscape.
“As Melbourne’s west grows so is Footscray Community Arts. This architecturally designed outdoor performance space will allow us continue our 50 year legacy of supporting communities to connect through creativity,” said Artistic Director and CEO, Footscray Community Arts, Daniel Santangeli.
The redevelopment is being delivered by Footscray Community Arts with an $8.7 million contribution from the Victorian Government, funded through the Victorian Budget 2022/23 as part of the $17.5 million Creative Infrastructure Program, which also includes funding the Castlemaine Art Museum, Theatre Works, the National Theatre, the City of Dandenong and City of Wyndham.
“Footscray Community Arts has a 50-year history of putting on inclusive and inspirational creative and cultural experiences for people of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life – right in the heart of Melbourne’s West,” said Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks.
“This redevelopment will mean Footscray Community Arts can host outdoor shows all year round, with increased accessibility for artists and audiences – and with First Peoples’ culture embedded into the design.”
The redevelopment is expected to be completed and open to the public in late 2025. For more information about Footscray Community Arts, visit: www.footscrayarts.com for details.
Image: Footscray Community Arts (sourced)