Applications open for four brand new 12-week Writers Residencies
These Residencies are suitable for writers of any age and at any stage of their development, and each offer a dedicated studio space, a generous honorarium, access to support and mentoring from ACF staff and more.
Large studios offer a unique creative space at Abbotsford Convent.
Be part of the Convent’s creative community in this bright, open studio with all the architectural and design elements to support a vibrant workspace. Open to all proposals that fall within Arts, Culture and Learning.
Starting 2 October 2024, Justine takes the helm of our National Heritage listed multi-arts precinct. She brings to the Convent her extensive experience in the Cultural, Government and Commercial sectors, with a dynamic track record of setting an ambitious vision, identifying new opportunities, challenging the status quo and driving change. Welcome to the Convent Justine.
Announcing Platform, an initiative of Abbotsford Convent and BlakDance, and First Nations-led creative development program for multi-generational choreographers and contemporary dance artists.
The Artists in Residence for 2024 – 2025 have been selected.
Each year, Abbotsford Convent invites applications from artists and creative industries leaders to engage with our unique precinct through two Studio Residencies. Join us in welcoming two new additions to the Convent creative community — Louise Marson, the inaugural recipient of the Maggie Maguire Residency, and this year’s Abbotsford Convent Artist-in-Residence — Amelia Jean O’Leary.
In 2004 the Abbotsford Convent Coalition fought to save the Convent from commercial redevelopment and won.
This mighty movement was marked by the Abbotsford Convent Foundation being handed the keys to the Convent by the Victorian Government, providing the community with a special place to celebrate arts, culture and learning.
20 years later, Abbotsford Convent remains at the heart of a creative community. Memories are created here. Moments are celebrated here. Momentum is harnessed here.
From its days as a Kulin Nation meeting point, to a closed monastic site, to an inspiring community campaign resulting in today’s arts and cultural precinct —discover the Convent your way through our self-guided tours:
Ngulu-nganjin (Our Voice)
Hear the Traditional Owner history and heritage through Indigenous voices and storytelling.
Social History Tour
Uncover memories collected from former residents and caretakers of the land, from monastic site to community campaign.
Makers Map
Find out who’s here, explore the Heritage listed studios and find gifts and artworks all created on-site by the tenant community.
