Soft Infrastructures

This major commissioning series, commencing in 2026, is dedicated to social practice and community-led methodologies, supporting an early-career Victorian artist to create a career-defining work that reflects the evolving role of art in public life. Building on Next Wave’s 40+ year legacy of expert collaborative modes of practice, and extending upon TIDAL, our previous public art project, Soft Infrastructures invites early-career artists to reimagine collective, place-based and relational ways of art making for the future.

Focusing on deep collaboration with communities across Victoria, this program creates space for connection, learning, and belonging. It invites participation from artists and non-artists alike, and embraces collaboration with humans and more-than-human kin.

The project may take form within or beyond traditional presentation contexts, including public space, digital platforms, or other site-specific settings. The selected early-career artist will receive curatorial mentorship and support to undertake an ambitious research-led commission that sits across art, education, and
social engagement.

More information coming soon.

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