As part of its mission to develop, foster and promote contemporary visual art and artists, the Australian Experimental Art Foundation provides non-residential studio space for subsidised lease. Its aim is to facilitate a dynamic, supportive and secure studio environment in order to foster the development of ideas and practices, increase networking and exposure opportunities, and to increase dialogues surrounding the contemporary visual arts in Adelaide.

location

Housed on two floors of purpose-built premises within the Lion Arts Centre in the arts and education precinct of Adelaide CBD, the Australian Experimental Art Foundation operates its gallery and the specialist Dark Horsey Bookshop on the ground floor and offices and studios on the first floor. The Lion Arts Centre also houses Jam Factory Contemporary Craft & Design, Craftsouth, Media Resource Centre & Mercury Cinema, Nexus Multicultural Arts Centre, Leigh Warren & Dancers, Fowler’s Live, South Australian Living Artists Festival and Patch Theatre offices. The Lion Arts Centre is owned and maintained by the South Australian government.

description

The studios area comprises 200m2 divided into six 30m2 studios. Depending on demand and the requirements of artists, the studios are usually leased for 6-24 month periods. Amenities are shared with the aeaf and access to its equipment is facilitated. The studios have independent 24 hour access. Most studios are not secured by doors or locks and do not have ceilings. As a whole, the studios have a high cathedral-like ceiling with skylights and each studio has opening windows. Cooling is by evaporative air conditioning and there is overhead fluorescent lighting. Four of the studio spaces have independent water supply and double sinks. There is a gantry for loading large or heavy works. There is ample provision for power and a telephone for dedicated use by tenants. The studios are serviced for mechanical and electrical breakdowns occurring out of normal wear and tear. The EAF is a smoke-free building.

becoming a studio tenant

It is envisaged that applications will come from artists who have completed a tertiary qualification in the visual arts or are otherwise actively dedicated to making art and exploring new ideas and directions in visual art. Priority will be given to artists whose work is compatible with the AEAF’s aims and objectives and to individuals rather than organisations. Artists in all areas of art practice are eligible to apply with a restriction on those practices which, given the open plan of the studios, would negatively impact on neighbouring tenants (eg use of toxic substances, loud sound, etc).

conditions of tenancy

Studio rental is inclusive of electricity, general maintenance, phone line rental and the cleaning of shared areas. There is a maximum of two persons per studio and sharing is only permitted through negotiation with the AEAF. Insurance for the property of the tenant and damage arising out of the tenant’s neglect is the responsibility of the tenant. Tenants must become members of the AEAF.

applying

Interested applicants should contact the AEAF either by phone or email. The studios are usually fully occupied and possible future vacancies should be discussed in advance. A waiting list is kept of expressions of interest and applicants notified if a vacancy becomes available. An application should include your name and contact details as well as a brief outline of your art practice, why you want a studio at the AEAF, how long for and the ideal time you would like to take up a tenancy. Also include a current CV, examples of work (photos; digital images or video; CD/DVD; scanned images or website UR; publications) and the name and contact details of two referees who are prepared to provide confidential information either in relation to your art practice or as a personal reference. Send your application to Australian Experimental Art Foundation, PO Box 8091, Station Arcade, South Australia 5000, or email to info AT aeaf.org.au