Eltham Library Community Gallery 2026 | Applications open

Opened in 1994, the Eltham Library Community Gallery is a much-loved community gallery space that sits within the Eltham Library complex on Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Country. It was designed by multi award-winning Melbourne architect, Gregory Burgess.

The Eltham Library Community Gallery is an important platform for emerging artists that provides entry into professional practice. The gallery space offers a diverse exhibition program that showcases both traditional forms of art-making and new methods of art production, along with themes and ideas that are relevant to our times. View the current and upcoming exhibitions.

Applications open for 2026

Artists and curators are invited to submit ideas for solo, two-person and curated exhibitions for the 2026 exhibition program.

It’s free to exhibit at the Eltham Library Community Gallery. Exhibitors receive basic marketing support, curatorial support, a $550 exhibition fee and $100 catering fee for their opening event.

Submissions open: Saturday 1 March 2025
Submissions close: 11.50am Friday 2 May 2025

2026 ELCG Terms and Conditions(PDF, 2MB) 

First Peoples, artists living with a disability, culturally and linguistically diverse groups, LGBTIQA+ and gender diverse people and emerging artists and curators are encouraged to apply. Contact us about your access requirements by emailing artsinfo@nillumbik.vic.gov.au or call 9433 3359.

The exhibition application process is highly competitive. We strongly encourage creatives to visit the Eltham Library Community Gallery before applying. Read the 2026 ELCG Terms and Conditions above and Frequently Asked Questions below.

Information sessions

Find out more about applying for an Eltham Library Community Gallery exhibition. This is an opportunity to learn about what’s involved in the application form, what the gallery offers artists and what the exhibitor’s responsibilities are when having an exhibition.

Free information sessions for creatives will take place on the following dates:

• Friday 21 March 6pm-7:30pm, in person. Eltham Library Multi-Purpose Room, Panther Place, Eltham (opposite the Eltham Library Community Gallery). Register online
• Thursday 27 March 5.30pm-7pm, online. Register online

Frequently asked questions

Can I apply for an exhibition if I’ve exhibited recently at the Eltham Library Community Gallery?
Yes, you can apply. Artists/curators who are new to the program will receive extra scores when applications are assessed.

Is this opportunity only open to local artists?
All artists/curators can apply. Artists who live, work, study, play or have a relationship to Nillumbik will receive extra scores when applications are assessed.

Can I apply for this opportunity if I’ve never exhibited before?
Yes, we encourage emerging artists and curators to apply for this opportunity.

When will applicants be notified about the outcome of the application?
Applicants will be notified by Friday 18 July 2025.

Can I get feedback about my application if I’m unsuccessful?
Yes, we encourage applicants to contact the Exhibitions Officer for feedback about their application.

If you are applying for a group exhibition, are you only allowed to upload 10 photos?
Yes, only 10 photos can be uploaded in the application form. 

If you are applying for a group exhibition, can you only upload a one-page CV or bio?
Yes, for group exhibitions applicants can provide a short bio for each artist on one A4 page. 

Can I submit a late application if I miss the deadline?
No, applicants must submit their application before the due date. We recommend creatives submit their application early. 

Can I apply if I don't have Public Liability Insurance?
Yes, you can apply if you don't currently have public liability insurance. The public liability insurance question on the SmartyGrants form is not compulsory. If your application is successful, you will be required to organise public liability insurance for your exhibition dates.

Do exhibitors receive an artist fee?
Yes, exhibitors will receive a $550 Exhibition Fee and a $100 Catering Fee to help with snacks and refreshments for their opening event. If applicants deliver a public program as part of their exhibition a fee will be paid for the workshop or talk as-well.

Will I receive curatorial support from the Arts and Cultural Development team?
Yes, the Exhibitions Officer will work closely with exhibitors and support artists and curators with exhibition layout, labels, installation and promotions.

More information 

To keep in the loop about opportunities subscribe to the Nillumbik Arts e-newsletter and follow Nillumbik Arts via Instagram and Facebook. 

For more information about Eltham Library Community Gallery, contact:

Exhibitions Officer 
artsinfo@nillumbik.vic.gov.au
9433 3111

Images of the gallery space

 

Install photo of Art and Agency by Araluen Studio Artists, Eltham Library Community Gallery, 2022. Photo by Jamie Robertson

Install photo of Dogs like sunshine by Emily Viski, Eltham Library Community Gallery, 2023. Photo by Jessie Neale

Install photo of Flight by Nina Kelabora, Eltham Library Community Gallery, 2024. Photo by Jamie Robertson

Install photo of Nostalgic by Xi Guo, Eltham Library Community Gallery, 2023. Photo by Jamie Robertson