Watch This Space (WTS) is located in Mparntwe/Alice Springs on Arrernte Country. We pay respect to its traditional custodians, the Arrernte people, who continue to nurture and care for this apmere/country/home. WTS recognises that the effects of colonisation are still being felt here, now and across the country, and acknowledge that sovereignty has never been ceded.

WTS recognises that written, online applications are not accessible to everyone. If this model is not suitable for your needs please contact the gallery on 08 8952 1949 or email wts@wts.org.au to discuss other application models that will better assist you.

WTS welcomes proposals from First Nations and non-First Nations artists, groups, curators and community organisations.

WHO WE ARE:

The only contemporary experimental art space in Central Australia, Watch This Space (WTS) has played a critical role in the creative ecology of Mparntwe/Alice Springs over the past 28 years. Watch This Space is a catalyst and conduit for conversations and experiments in the always-evolving languages of art. It supports contemporary art dialogue in the region both inside and outside a gallery space, encouraging, nurturing and promoting Central Australian and visiting artists. It is an ARI hub where studio artists and exhibiting artists intersect, housing a diversity of creative practices.

WE AIM TO:

CREATE opportunities for local artists’ work to be discovered and made visible through hosting contemporary art exhibitions.

PROVIDE opportunities for local, interstate and international artists to enrich the artistic and cultural life of Alice Springs through the delivery of high quality contemporary art activities.

FOSTER an inclusive creative community of artists who share skills and experiences with each other by accessing the onsite gallery and studio space.

OFFER professional development opportunities for artists including artistic/cultural collaborations and skills development.

NURTURE the full breadth of contemporary art activities including multi-disciplinary art forms, new media and installation work.

WHEN PREPARING YOUR PROPOSAL, YOU MUST CONSIDER:

- The relevance of your proposal to WTS’s aims (as listed above). Please keep in mind we are a contemporary experimental art space and not a commercial gallery.

- The sensitivity and respect being considered for any work concerning First Nations culture and history. Culturally inappropriate exhibitions will not be accepted.

- The clarity of your proposal. Flowery or overly academic writing is not favoured; we just want clear language that tells us what you are proposing to exhibit.

- The quality of your support material and how it aligns with your proposal. Remember: this is the only way we can visualise the work you make, so make sure you have the best quality images possible.  

- We are not an Aboriginal arts space and are therefore not in a position to connect you with First Nations artists. If this is your primary interest we recommend you contact Aboriginal owned and run organisations in Central Australia.

PROGRAM OFFERS:

- $1,000 flat-rate exhibition fee

- A fully subsidised gallery space for three weeks (including two-day install and one-day de-install)

- Guidance and support from our Gallery Director, Curatorial Committee and Board in developing their professional practice.

- Access to and assistance with WTS equipment, tools and resources (prior arrangement ideal).

- Support and advice regarding exhibition installation, marketing and publicity.

- Digital promotion of exhibition through the WTS website, social media platforms, e-newsletter and other online resources.

- Hard-copy mail out of invitation to WTS Members. This covers the cost for mailout, i.e. postage, labels and envelopes.

- Organisation of printing promotional material.

- Opening night bar provision and attendance.

- Coordination of artwork sales on opening night and duration of exhibition expect on Saturdays.

- Staffing of the exhibition during weekday open hours (Wed-Fri 12-5pm).

SUCCESSFUL ARTISTS ARE REQUIRED TO:

- Cover the costs of printing invitations and any extra publicity.  

- Provide WTS with at least 200 hard-copy invitations in accordance with the invitation template.  

- Install and de-install their own exhibition and provide the necessary hanging devices, screws, etc.
(A de-install and cleaning fee of $150 applies if the artist is not present to do so)

- Pay 25% commission fee on all artwork sales.

- Invigilate the gallery on Saturdays 10-2pm. WTS is unable to provide gallery sitters.  

ARTISTS LIVING OUT OF TOWN

- Cover cost of own flights, accommodation and freight of artworks.