BASS Coast Shire Council is excited to announce that Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for 2026 gallery exhibitions at its cultural heart, Berninneit, are now open. Artists and curators are invited to submit proposals for a unique opportunity to showcase their work in the professional visual arts space. EOIs will remain open for six weeks, until Sunday, June 29.
The Shire is proud to offer successful applicants the chance to present their exhibitions in the state-of-the-art gallery. Each selected exhibition will be scheduled for a six-week run between July and December 2026.
The Visual Arts Officer will collaborate closely with exhibitors, providing professional support to ensure the best outcomes for each exhibition. From curating the space to coordinating logistics, the team is dedicated to making any artistic vision a reality. Additionally, day-to-day operations and sales will be expertly managed by the Bass Coast Shire's customer service staff, ensuring a seamless experience for both exhibitors and visitors.
The gallery at Berninneit is more than just a space—it’s a platform that brings the best in contemporary art to the region while fostering local talent. As Bass Coast’s first purpose-built exhibition space, it offers a curated environment where residents and visitors can engage with thought-provoking works from emerging and established artists, both from Australia and beyond.
In its first year of operation, Berninneit has already showcased an exciting range of exhibitions that highlight the calibre and diversity of artists in the region, including:
Floor is Lava, by artist Dr. Emma Jackson, explored the volcanic origins of Australian islands—including Phillip Island—through large-scale knotted rugs that captivated visitors with their texture and story.
Unseen, by internationally acclaimed local photographer Matthew Bagley, used ultraviolet photography to transform discarded ocean debris from free diving adventures on the San Remo coastline into hauntingly beautiful imagery, sparking conversation around conservation and the hidden depths of our coastal waters.
Berninneit also recently welcomed beloved Australian author and illustrator Alison Lester for a community artist talk that attracted more than 60 attendees, with interactive activities and a book signing hosted in partnership with Myli – My Community Library.
The Shire also looking forward to welcoming Millowl artist Steven Ulula Parker for Warreeny Ngulu (Ocean Voice). Painting on canvas, as well as contemporary objects such as surfboards and skateboards, Parker makes his work accessible to diverse audiences and communities.
The exhibition program is designed to support and develop the arts in the region, fostering a strong sense of local identity and encouraging meaningful dialogue within the community. The Shire is committed to presenting well-executed and coherent exhibitions that reflect the highest quality of contemporary, regional, and First Nations art.
EOIs are open now and close Sunday, June 29, 2025. To learn more about how to apply for an exhibition at Berninneit, please read the Exhibitors Information Pack available at basscoast.vic.gov.au/berninneitEOI