Tucked away in a St Kilda studio, nestled beside Mirka Lane and overlooking Barkly Street, an independent collective of artists has been a quiet, creative force since 1996.
Artists, filmmakers and writers, hailing from diverse cultural backgrounds, have produced works in a range of media, including illustration, sculpture, painting, digital art, mixed media, poetry and film, at Artist’s Studio 106.
The upcoming exhibition, Chronicle 106, showcases works by the current cohort of artists while celebrating the 24-year history of this creative community.
Portraits of the artists in situ, by Louise Chen, are displayed alongside their works. An accompanying documentary film, On a Mission with 106, provides an intriguing insight into the artists’ influences, passion, practice and processes.
Mayor Bernadene Voss said the exhibition captures the creativity and passion of artists as they confront challenges faced by inner-city artistic communities such as higher rents and limited space.
“Chronicle 106 records one of Port Phillip’s most successful arts collectives, and gives our residents and visitors a ‘behind-the-scenes’ glimpse into a day in the life of an artist. It is a fascinating exhibition and I would encourage everyone to come down to Carlisle Street Art Space to enjoy it,” Cr Voss said.
The exhibition comes at an opportune moment as Artist’s Studio 106 artists face an uncertain future due to the redevelopment of its site. Chronicle 106 ensures that the people and works produced in this creative hub are preserved as a timeless reference for emerging artists in both St Kilda and across Australia.
Chronicle 106 can be viewed at the Carlisle Street Arts Space at the St Kilda Town Hall from 5 February to 4 March 2020.
An opening event will be held on Thursday 6 February from 6 to 8 pm followed by a Meet the Artists event on Thursday 20 February from 5 to 7 pm.
Carlisle Street Arts Space is open Monday to Friday 8.30 am to 5 pm. Entry is free of charge.
Josie Wadleton in her Studio by Louise Chen.
