The Society is using the weekend to reconnect with many former members, artists and descendants who may wish to share their experiences of the enjoyment and memories of the Victorian Artists' Society family.
People can register with the Victorian Artists' Society by sending their details and connection to the Society via email to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Visitors to the heritage listed building located at 430 Albert Street, East Melbourne, on the Saturday will be able to view a life class (model clothed) taking place with a number of artists.

The Victorian Artists' Society building was officially opened on 27 May 1892. The first part of the building, the historic studio which remains largely unchanged, has been a place of learning for tens of thousands of artists from all walks of life and continues today with a busy class schedule and a group of eminent artists as teachers.

The art studio at the Victorian Artists' Society

Eileen Mackley, President of the Victorian Artists' Society said, "Visitors to the building will be able to immerse themselves in the past through displays of the historic photographs and the spirit of the building whilst also enjoying the five galleries full of paintings and drawings from the current members of the Victorian Artists' Society.

"For lovers of music, Dame Nellie Melba's Conservatorium became a tenant of the Society from 1898 to 1952 with her students being taught in the front room on the ground floor and holding their debuts in the upstairs gallery.

"The original interior remains essentially intact and currently the Victorian Artists' Society is undertaking a major renovation program," Ms Mackley said.

Take a tour of the Victorian Artists' Society website - www.victorianartistssociety.com.au

Media Enquiries:
Ron Smith, Media Communications, Victorian Artists' Society - Mobile: 0417 329 201

There is no other place in Australia like the Victorian Artists' Society for people who love to view, learn, create and exhibit art.

Victorian Artists' Society 2016 Melbourne Open House Weekend
Open: Saturday 30 July 2016 10am-4pm, Sunday 31 July 2016 10am-4pm
Heritage Listed building

What's Open: The whole building will be open to the public, including the five galleries and working studio.
Special Note: Photography of building only.

Tour Type: Self Guided Tour Details: There will be VAS members available to provide information on the building and provide informal tours.
Special Programming: Members will be on site to provide tours of the building. There will be art for viewing and sale on the walls of the five galleries.
There will also be painting demonstrations in the studio on the Sunday. The Studio can be viewed as a working studio on the Saturday with a class and life drawing (clothed model) sessions.

Building Type: Cultural
Year Built: 1892
Tram Stops: Stop 11: Albert St/Gisborne St on routes 11, 12 and 109.

All Enquiries:
Victorian Artists' Society Office - (03) 9662 1484