VAS Gallery
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Founded in 1870 by early impressionist painters, the Victorian Artists Society (VAS) is a dynamic creative hub dedicated to upholding the traditions of visual arts through exhibitions, classes, and a thriving membership program of over 600 artists. As a registered charity and not-for-profit organisation, VAS is committed to providing free and accessible opportunities for all to engage with the arts. The Society is proudly staffed with working artists. Our Heritage Victoria and National Trust-listed building houses more than 50 exhibitions annually, including solo shows, guest organisations and major exhibitions featuring VAS members.
At the heart of VAS is our historic studio, established by the original painters in the 1870s. Artists continue to work in the studio daily, preserving a legacy of creativity and fine art practice.
What's On
In addition to exploring the heritage galleries and taking in the view of St Patrick's Cathedral from the balcony, guests can view our 9x5 exhibition, an homage to one of the earliest traditions of VAS artists. The original iconic exhibition in 1889 featured paintings by Arthur Streeton, Tom Roberts and Charles Conder, who painted on cigar box lids that were 9 by 5 inches in size.
Reintroduced to VAS in 2023, this historically important exhibition is one of the most popular events of the VAS calendar, attracting hundreds of entries from artists around Victoria and beyond.
Guests are welcome to enjoy a beverage from the VAS coffee cart while taking in the stunning building and artworks on display.
Children's Activities
Children are welcome in the galleries. There is an activity corner in the coffee shop with crayons and artist-created colouring sheets featuring artworks from the gallery exhibitions.
Images: (1) Victorian Artists Society building façade today. (2) Victorian Artists Society building facade watercolour painted by Tibbetts, 1895. (3) VAS upper galleries. (4) Looking in, view from the courtyard. (5) Taking in the view of the Cathedral from the balcony. All photos courtesy of the Victorian Artists Society.
Important Details
Tour/event summary information
Friday 25 July + Saturday 26 July + Sunday 27 July
Open access 10am-4pm
Bookings
No bookings required
Meeting Point
Enter via Albert Street.
Accessibility
Partially wheelchair accessible, Accessible bathroom, Accessible parking nearby, Elevator access
Wheelchair or other step free access is via a side lane. The galleries are entirely accessible, however the studio at the back of the building has two steps to enter. To use the side lane, please ring the call bell located on the side wall by the red gate. Staff will attend to let guests in via the courtyard.
