The Substation/​ Open House Melbourne/

Join us for a presentation in the Main Space with an introduction to the local First Nations language and culture by Yalukit Willam man Jaeden Williams. Nigel Edwards will follow to discuss the history of The Substation, focusing on its transformation from abandoned building to community arts centre in the early 2000s. The talk will conclude with a look at our current exhibition Object Of Projection by artist Kim Gordon, with information about the contemporary use of the building by CEO Nuala Furtado.

Printed and digital venue maps will be provided upon arrival, inviting you to explore The Substation through a self-guided tour at your own pace. This Open House Melbourne, navigate key sites of historic and contemporary significance any time throughout the day to learn about The Substation and our sustained connection to community.

What's On

11:30am - 1:30pm

Western Edge Meet and Greet, Western Edge office, level 2

12:30pm

Welcome to country and workshop with Associate Artist - First Nations Traditional Custodian, Jaeden Williams, Main space, level 1

1pm

The Substation Then & Now presentation with Nuala Furtado and Nigel Edwards, Main space, level 1

12 - 5pm

Open Studio, Tra Mi Dinh, Studio 2, ground floor

Open Studio, Sandra Parker, Studio 3, ground floor

Open Studio, Peter Waples-Crowe, Studio 4, level 1

2:30pm

Workshop with Associate Artist - First Nations Traditional Custodian, Jaeden Williams, Main space, level 1

3:30pm

Drinks and discussion for Nasty Women by Katie Sfetkidis, Billboard Galleries and Substation foyer bar

All Day (11am - 5pm)

Self guided tour of The Substation

Object of Projection by Kim Gordon, exhibition in the galleries, ground floor

Tea and coffee station (Community Reference Group), main foyer, ground floor

The Substation Archival Cinema, Dance studio, level 2

History of The Substation

Established over a century ago to power Melbourne’s suburban rail system, The Substation building is a landmark in the industrial history of the inner west. Made in the Edwardian-Baroque style, the building dominates its surroundings. The Substation is an example of the 'Type A' design used for the first five substations constructed as part of the electrification of the Melbourne metropolitan network.

After ceasing operation in the 1960s and falling into disrepair for three decades, in 1996 two local residents successfully led a campaign to restore and adapt the building for artistic use. Today, as an international destination for contemporary and experimental arts, The Substation both celebrates and transcends its original context in Newport.

Images: (1) The Substation. Photo: Josh Robenstone. (2) The Substation. Photo: Damien Raggatt. (3) The Substation. Photo: Pat Casten. (4) The Main Space. Photo: courtesy of The Substation. (5) The Substation (2000). Photo: John Young.