Arts & Culture
Writing studio helps kids’ life stories
Kids involved at Story Studios Australia are learning much more than just technical skill, its creative director says, with the programs helping them to find a voice and a community as well as see their work in print.
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The Torch explores the emotional journey of artworks To Be Returned
A powerful new exhibition opening in Carlton next month is turning the spotlight on a little-seen chapter in the life of First Peoples artworks created in prison.
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Council backs writers festival, calls out funding cuts
The City of Melbourne will write to the Premier urging funding be reinstated to Writers Victoria as the council prepares to host celebrations for the 40th annual Melbourne Writers Festival and promote itself as a UNESCO City of Literature
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Potter Museum of Art’s landmark Indigenous art show
An exhibition that sought to redefine Australian art and reveal hidden histories closed at Melbourne University’s Potter Museum of Art in late 2025 having attracted 50,000 visitors. According to its organisers, it made a significant contribution to cultural understanding.
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Funny show about a better world set to open at “reborn” La Mama
La Mama throws open its doors this month with a fresh suite of Australian shows, including a biting new satire about the state of the world from Carlton company Elbow Room.
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Potter Museum of Art unveils major new exhibition exploring the intelligence of the natural world
The University of Melbourne’s Potter Museum of Art will open one of its most ambitious exhibitions to date on February 19, with internationally acclaimed curator Chus Martínez presenting A velvet ant, a flower and a bird.
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La Mama opens 2026 with Elbow Room’s sharp new satire SAINTS
La Mama will launch its 2026 season with a bold reimagining of witchcraft, prophecy and political upheaval, as acclaimed theatre-makers Elbow Room return with their latest work, SAINTS, running from 6 to 27 February at La Mama Courthouse.
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La Mama celebrates its storied past with limited-edition vintage prints
La Mama Theatre is inviting Melburnians to take home a piece of Australian theatre history, releasing a striking new series of limited-edition vintage prints that honour the iconic venue’s early decades.
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Fresh voices shine as Readings Prize winners announced in Carlton
Three emerging Australian authors were celebrated in Carlton on November 14, as Readings announced the winners of its annual literary prizes – a unique program dedicated to supporting debut and second-time writers across children’s, young adult and adult fiction.
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Bridget McDonnell Gallery prepares for another festive season of fine art
One of Carlton’s longest-running art traditions returns this December, with Bridget McDonnell Gallery set to unveil its annual Christmas Exhibition – a much-loved showcase featuring 100 works, all priced under $2000.
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Parkville heritage review moves to panel after mixed submissions
Affectionate Esky
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