Footscray Community Arts Centre’s 50th anniversary celebrations continue with work kicking off on a $8.7 million transformation backed by the Victorian Government.
The iconic creative and cultural hub in Melbourne’s west has commenced a redevelopment of its outdoor facilities, with the creation of a new multi-use, outdoor performance space with year-round weather protection and improved disability and mobility access.
Landscaping works and new planting across the site will also take place, as well as the integration of artwork by Yorta Yorta, Wurundjeri and Wiradjuri visual artist, Moorina Bonini.
Once complete, Footscray Community Arts Centre will be able to host outdoor music events, cultural ceremonies, performances, talks and workshops – with a focus on community-led programming for the diverse communities who call Footscray home.
The redevelopment has been designed by MGS Architects and Simone Bliss Landscape Architects, with leadership from Footscray Community Arts' Indigenous Advisory Group who have worked closely with the teams to embed First Peoples culture into the design and landscape.
The redevelopment received support through the Victorian Budget 2022/23 as part of the $17.5 million Creative Infrastructure Program, which also included funding for the Castlemaine Art Museum, Theatre Works, the National Theatre, the City of Dandenong and City of Wyndham.
The redevelopment is expected to be completed and open to the public in late 2025.
For more information about Footscray Community Arts visit https://footscrayarts.com/