The Abbotsford Convent has announced acclaimed Melbourne artist Richard Lewer as its next Artist-in-Residence, with the celebrated artist set to take up a three-month residency from June in the Convent’s historic Packing Room.
In a remarkable coincidence, Lewer had been confirmed for the residency prior to his recent win of the 2026 Archibald Prize. In April, the Melbourne-based artist was awarded the prize for his portrait of Pitjantjatjara Elder, senior artist and ngangkari (traditional healer) Iluwanti Ken.
Born in New Zealand and based in Melbourne since 1996, Lewer is recognised as a painter, draughtsman, printmaker, sculptor and video artist whose work offers an unflinching exploration of the human condition. Across his practice, he draws on stories encountered through his own experiences and observations, creating works that examine memory, vulnerability and the complexities of human relationships.
As Artist-in-Residence, Lewer will work from the Convent’s Packing Room – a space steeped in the site’s history. Named for its original use in the early 1900s, the room was once where linen from the Convent’s industrial laundry was packed and prepared.
The Abbotsford Convent hosts four artists and four writers ‘in residence’ each year giving them free studio space, mentoring opportunities and in some cases a modest stipend to allow them to develop new work in a heritage listed setting, immersed alongside 100+ creative tenants.
Lewer said he was looking forward to becoming part of the Convent’s creative community.
“Winning the Archi has been surreal,” said Lewer.
“I don’t go around telling everyone I’m an artist. But the Archibald Prize is where mainstream culture meets the arts, so now everyone knows.”
“It’s nice to no longer be introduced as ‘six-time Archibald finalist’. I do so much more than enter the Archibald competition.”
“I’m excited to be the next Abbotsford Convent Artist-in-Residence. It will be really nice to make work there. I can’t wait to get to know the creative community.”
Lewer’s current show Steve, at the National Gallery of Australia, is an exhibition combining paintings and film to tell the story of a family coming to terms with a dementia diagnosis. The work will tour nationally later in the year.
Richard Lewer’s Convent residency has been made possible through the generous support of arts philanthropists, Michael Schwarz and David Clouston.
Justine Hyde, CEO of the Abbotsford Convent, said Lewer’s practice and storytelling approach made him an ideal fit for the residency.
“Richard’s work illuminates deeply human stories with honesty and empathy, and we look forward to seeing how he responds to the site and its creative community.”
“We’re grateful for the generous support of philanthropists like Michael and David. By supporting artist residencies, philanthropists invest not only in individual artists, but in the future of Australia’s cultural life.”
Over the past two years, the Abbotsford Convent has supported 13 artists and writers through a mix of initiatives made possible through a combination of philanthropy and grant support.
“At a time when public funding for the arts is increasingly constrained, philanthropy has become an essential partner in supporting artistic practice, alongside community giving, partnerships and earned income,” said Ms Hyde.