We’re calling for Merri-bek artists to participate our inaugural Winter Windows series.

The series will see two artists display video works on Brunswick Mechanic Institute’s street-facing screens—responding to the theme Possible Worlds: Imagined Futures.

Elyse Goldfinch, Next Wave CEO, said the series aims to bring dynamism and light to the Brunswick Mechanics Institute forecourt after dark.

“The presentation will commence around the time of the Winter solstice—the longest nights of the year,” Elyse said.

“When the sun goes down, these works will transform Brunswick Mechanics Institute’s windows into portals that invite passersby to pause, reflect and reimagine our collective futures.”
 
Each participating artist will receive an artist fee of $750 (plus 12% superannuation). To be eligible, artists must live, work or study in Merri-bek. Artists of any age and stage can apply, but early-career artists will be prioritised.

To support artists through the application process, Next Wave is hosting an online information session and two artist drop-ins at Brunswick Mechanics Institute.

“We’re aiming to make this process as accessible as possible to ensure that artists of all career stages and lived experiences have the opportunity to apply,” Elyse said.

The Winter Windows series is just one of a handful of activations Next Wave has planned for Brunswick Mechanics Institute in 2025, with more opportunities for local artists currently in development.

Having secured our home at Brunswick Mechanics Institute for up to nine years in 2024, the future of the organisation will be centred on local practices and opportunities for creative development and presentation, as well as learning, mentorship and exchange.

“Next Wave occupies a space in the heart of a thriving creative community,” Elyse said.

“We’re thinking a lot about the future and how Next Wave is evolving to support the needs of emerging artists locally. The Winter Windows series is one of a number of new opportunities we’ll be excited to share soon.”

Applications for Next Wave’s Winter Windows series are open until Wednesday 21 May, 2025.

An online information session will be held on Tuesday 6 May, and drop-in sessions are set for Thursday 8 May and Thursday 15 May.

Visit Winter Windows for all the details.