2026 OPEN CALL
BUS PROJECTS
Deadline: Sat. 29th Sept. 2025, 11:59pm (AEST). Apply online via our website: busprojects.org.au/program/apply
Bus Projects invites artists, curators, collectives, and creatives to submit proposals for our 2026 artistic program. We are seeking bold, rigorous, and experimental ideas for exhibitions, public programs, performances, and more.
Founded in 2001 by a group of artists and designers, Bus Projects was originally located at 117 Little Lonsdale St in Naarm Melbourne’s CBD. Bus Projects’ early years were characterised by experimental and interdisciplinary programming, championing generations of pioneering artists working in ephemeral mediums such as video, sound, installation and performance.
As we celebrate our 25th anniversary in 2026, we’re re-centring our commitment to our origins in experimentation, self-determined practice, and artist-led production.
EXHIBITIONS IN 2026
The 2026 program will consist of 11 exhibitions selected from the open call within the two exhibiting streams Gallery 1 & Project Space. 2 exhibitions in our program will be dedicated to celebrating the 25th Anniversary, including the annual fundraiser exhibition.
Exhibition duration: Shows will run for 3 weeks, with dedicated time for install and de-install.
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR
We are looking for proposals that:
- Engage deeply with experimentation in form, process, or concept
- Reflect social, political, or cultural responsiveness
- Offer new directions or departures in an artist’s practice
We welcome applications from:
- Artists and curators at all stages of their careers
- Solo & group exhibitions/projects
- Creatives who have not previously shown with Bus Projects
- Artists from historically underrepresented or structurally excluded communities
APPLICATION STREAMS
Exhibiting at Bus Projects is free
- Gallery 1: $1,150 + 12% superannuation (NAVA minimum) paid to exhibitor/s
- Project Space: $500 project fee + 12% superannuation (NAVA minimum) paid to exhibitor/s
WHAT WE PROVIDE
- A 3-week exhibition in one or both gallery spaces
- Artist-fees in line with industry standards
- Installation/de-install assistance
- Access to limited technical equipment (AV gear, media players, projectors, screens)
- Marketing via website, email, and social media
- Public event (opening, closing, or talk)
- Project support including install assistance, curatorial input, promotion and letters of support for funding applications
WHAT WE ASK OF YOU
- Collaborate with the Bus team on project development
- Provide timely text/images for marketing
- Be present for install/deinstall unless otherwise agreed
- Follow all OHS and safety protocols
ABOUT THE SPACE
ACCESSIBILITY
Further information about physical access and navigation, refer to our Access Document & Visual Story.
- 2-minute walk from 96 tram (Stop 20)
- Ground floor entry, some uneven footpaths
- Entry widths: Front/Gallery 2: 79cm; Gallery 1: 81cm; Toilet: 68cm
- Accessible, gender-neutral toilet on-site
- Auslan interpretation available upon request for public programs and events
SELECTION PROCESS
Applications are peer-reviewed by the Artist Committee and Bus Projects staff. Criteria:
- Concept strength and clarity
- Artistic merit and risk-taking
- Feasibility within gallery constraints
- Alignment with Bus Projects’ curatorial vision
- Contribution to diversity of practices and perspectives
FURTHER INFORMATION
About Bus Projects & History of Bus Projects
APPLICATION PROCESS
Deadline: Saturday 28th September 2025, 11:59pm (AEST)
Notifications: 4–6 weeks after application deadline.
Selected projects scheduled in consultation with staff.
Drop-in Information Session: Sat. 20 Sept. 2025, 10-2pm
QUESTIONS OR ACCESS NEEDS
To apply via non-written formats (e.g. video/audio) or for any further questions please contact Kyle McIntyre, Gallery Manager: kyle@busprojects.org.au.