Apollo Bay Art Show Background

In 2027, the Art Show will have been bringing artists and art lovers together in Apollo Bay for 50 years. 

Today the Apollo Bay Art Show is one of the region’s premier annual community art events. As the local arts organisation, Apollo Bay Arts sees the event as more than just an art show—it’s a celebration of creativity, a vital fundraiser that supports local arts initiatives, and a place where emerging and established artists can share their work with thousands of visitors.

We are so excited to bring the 50th Art Show to life in 2027 alongside some special additional celebrations to mark our anniversary.

We are equally excited to announce our move to the a larger venue, the historic “Mech Hall” ,with its main street presence and attached Arts Inc. Gallery. 

The Apollo Bay Art Show is well-known in the region as one that displays quality works of first-time exhibitors, emerging artists, through to well-known established artists. Sales are very strong, with over 40% of works sold in 2026.

The annual Art Show is the sole fundraiser for Apollo Bay Arts. which reinvests the funds to support local creatives. Projects funded  include sculpture, jewellery making, excursions, annual Art Prize, mentorship, video footage, life drawing classes, local mural projects and prizes for the Art Section of the Apollo Bay & District Agricultural Show.

A LITTLE MORE ON THE HISTORY

It all began with the Apollo Bay Painting and Pottery Exhibition, held in the old Butter Factory on Hardy Street in 1976. The inaugural exhibition was a resounding success, quickly establishing itself as a much-loved community event. As the show grew, it moved first to the Catholic School in Noel Street, before finding a long-term home at the Catholic Church Hall in Trafalgar Street, where it became an annual tradition for more than 30 years.

During this time, the exhibition raised many thousands of dollars for the Apollo Bay Historical Society while showcasing the work of the region’s artists. Each year, returning exhibitors and new talent filled the venue with an impressive collection of paintings, pottery and other creative works.

In 2010, Apollo Bay Arts Inc. took over the management of the Art Show, ensuring this much-loved event would continue to thrive. In 2015, the exhibition moved to the Community Hall in Whelan Street. Display panels were redesigned for the new venue, which has since become the heart of the Art Show each Easter.

The show continues to evolve. In 2018–19, new coordinators expanded the exhibition to include  three-dimensional and sculptural pieces alongside the traditional paintings, drawings and photography, reflecting the diversity and innovation of today’s artists while honouring the show’s rich heritage.

In 2027 the Apollo Bay Art Show makes a move to the historic Mechanic’s Institute Hall. A fitting location for our 50th year, celebrating Apollo Bay’s creativity, history and community.