What to Expect
Experience a unique blend of contemporary and historical art with Open House Melbourne and Next Wave. This event invites you to immerse yourself in a generous city ethos, where participation and belonging are celebrated through diverse artistic expressions. Discover new moving image works and a rich retrospective of Next Wave’s history.
On Friday evening, enjoy a curator-led walking tour showcasing exciting new works by artists Tony Aitorea, Vicente Barriga, Kimberly Summer, Wenmiao Xin, beingbaker, and Camille Perry. Saturday offers a deep dive into Next Wave’s archival treasures, including festival programs, posters, and photographs.
This event is perfect for families looking to inspire creativity and cultural appreciation in their children, with accessible times and engaging content.
Activity Details
The event spans two days: Friday 24 July 2026 from 17:00 to 20:00 and Saturday 25 July 2026 from 10:00 to 14:00. Friday’s program features a walking tour of the Around the Block moving image exhibition, while Saturday hosts the Next Wave Retrospective archival exhibition in the studio.
Highlights include:
- Curator-led tours of contemporary moving image artworks
- Archival displays tracing Next Wave’s artistic journey since 1984
- Opportunities to engage with artists’ works in multiple venues around Brunswick
This event offers a rich cultural experience that encourages family participation and discovery.
Location and Access
The event takes place at 270 Sydney Road, Brunswick, a vibrant cultural hub easily accessible by public transport. Families can conveniently reach the venue via tram and bus routes, with detailed transport and parking information available online.
The venues include Blak Dot, Next Wave, Counihan Gallery, and Michelle Guglielmo Park, all within walking distance, making it easy to explore multiple sites during the event.
The location is family-friendly and designed to welcome visitors of all ages, providing a safe and inclusive environment for children and adults alike.
Important Information
Please note the event dates and times carefully to make the most of the experience. The walking tour on Friday requires timely arrival at 17:00, while Saturday’s archival exhibition is open from 10:00 to 14:00.
The event is free to attend, but spaces on the walking tour may be limited, so early arrival is recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are advised for the Friday tour.
Parents should consider the suitability of the moving image content for their children, although the event is generally family-friendly and designed to engage all ages.
Booking and Prices
This is a free event with no booking required, making it an accessible cultural outing for families looking to enrich their weekend.
For further details or specific inquiries, contact Maddie Lakos, Communications and Development Manager at Next Wave via phone or email.
Additional information and transport details can be found on the Open House Melbourne website, ensuring you have all you need for a smooth and enjoyable visit.