Regional Victoria faces an unprecedented cultural challenge as its most significant art galleries simultaneously undergo major transformations. The Art Gallery of Ballarat closed in March 2025 for essential upgrades, while the Bendigo Art Gallery is scheduled to shut its doors in November 2025 for an even more extensive redevelopment. These closures represent a significant disruption to the cultural fabric of regional Victoria, affecting not only local communities but also the broader tourism economy that relies on these institutions as major drawcards.
For local ceramic artist Ruby Pilven, the closure of Ballarat’s gallery represents a profound personal loss. The institution has been central to her life since childhood, and when her renowned ceramicist father Peter died unexpectedly in December 2024, the gallery honored his legacy by displaying his work in their windows within hours of his passing. This gesture exemplifies the deep connection between these galleries and their communities – relationships that will be tested during the extended closure periods.
Essential Infrastructure Overhauls Drive Closures
The Art Gallery of Ballarat’s closure stems from critical infrastructure needs that can no longer be delayed. The $6 million upgrade project centers on installing a new $5.5 million heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system to replace equipment that has reached the end of its operational life. This new HVAC system is essential for meeting international museum standards, enabling the gallery to secure prestigious international exhibitions and properly preserve its nationally significant collection valued at over $130 million.
The upgrades extend beyond climate control to include interior wall enhancements that will allow artworks to be displayed at varying heights, moving away from the restrictive picture rail system that has limited exhibition options. Additionally, the project includes energy-efficient LED skylight panels funded by a $536,707 state government grant, which will enable the display of light-sensitive works on paper.
Bendigo Art Gallery faces an even more ambitious transformation with its $45 million redevelopment project, though it remains $15 million short of full funding. The project will create what’s being called the “People’s Gallery,” featuring a dedicated second-floor space for blockbuster international exhibitions, a state-of-the-art children’s gallery and learning studio, and a Place of Keeping designed in collaboration with the Dja Dja Wurrung community to house cultural materials.
Community Impact and Cultural Continuity
The simultaneous closure of these major regional galleries creates significant challenges for cultural tourism and local communities. Ballarat’s gallery attracted 150,000 visitors in 2024, while Bendigo welcomed 120,000 visitors in the last financial year. The loss of these attractions during peak tourism periods represents a substantial economic impact for both cities.
To maintain cultural engagement during the closure, both galleries have developed comprehensive off-site programming strategies. Ballarat has established the Backspace Gallery at 43 Mair Street, which opened in March 2025 to provide exhibition opportunities for early-career artists. The gallery has also created pop-up spaces, including a Gallery Shop at 50 Lydiard Street North, and will host educational programs at various venues throughout the city.
Louise Tegart, Director of the Art Gallery of Ballarat, acknowledges the disappointment surrounding the closure, particularly given the gallery’s free admission policy during challenging economic times. However, she emphasizes that the upgrades are essential for protecting the collection and ensuring the gallery’s future viability as a major cultural institution.
Long-term Vision and Regional Competition
Both galleries are positioning themselves for significant growth following their reopenings. Bendigo Art Gallery Director Jessica Bridgfoot anticipates a 30% increase in visitor numbers once the facility reopens in early 2028, projecting growth from 120,000 to over 150,000 annual visitors. The expanded facilities will enable both galleries to host larger international exhibitions and provide better access to their permanent collections.
While the upgrades might intensify any existing rivalry between Ballarat and Bendigo, Tegart suggests the galleries will continue to offer distinct experiences rather than directly competing. Ballarat’s reopening is planned for early 2026, giving it a two-year head start on its renovated competitor.
The closures also affect other regional galleries, with the Benalla Art Gallery undergoing renovations to accommodate larger exhibits and the Latrobe Regional Gallery completing maintenance work. This coordinated period of infrastructure investment across regional Victoria suggests a broader recognition of the importance of cultural institutions to regional development and tourism.
Despite the temporary hardship, community members like Ruby Pilven remain optimistic about the future. She describes the closure as “incredibly sad” but looks forward to the moment of reconnection when the gallery reopens, anticipating that the community will be “both excited and relieved to return” to these beloved cultural spaces.