RISING is a major cultural event for the Asia Pacific Region created by a diverse team of local, national and international artists and curators.

RISING's purpose is to send interlocking circles of experience and connection radiating through the night, re-synchronising the city and re-energising it with public art, performance and music spanning the emerging and iconic, the epic and intimate.

RISING returns 1—12 June 2022.

View the 2021 RISING program [here](https://2021.rising.melbourne/). 


# Office
Level 2  
377 Lonsdale Street  
Melbourne VIC 3000  
Australia

### Postal Address

PO BOX 10  
Flinders Lane VIC 8009  
Australia

__Ticketing enquiries__

Mon—Fri 10AM—5PM

Closed public holidays

__General enquiries__

Mon—Fri 9AM—5PM

Closed public holidays

If you have a question not covered in our [FAQs](https://rising.melbourne/faqs "Frequently Asked Questions") or you’re not sure who to reach out to, fill in the form below. If you know which inbox you need to land in, get in touch via the following emails.

For ticketing enquiries, contact [our customer service team](mailto:ticketing@rising.melbourne)

For media enquiries, contact [Luke](mailto:luke@commonstate.co). Here's our [media centre](https://commonstate.co/rising-2021/ "RISING Media Centre"), too.

To make a donation drop [James](mailto:j.ralston@rising.melbourne) or [Ben](mailto:b.lee@rising.melbourne) a line.  

Interested in sponsoring RISING? Reach out to [Daniel](mailto:daniel@mcmillanmgmt.com).


Contact

The Melbourne Art Trams Program returns in 2022, again featuring all designs by First Peoples artists. 

Melbourne/Naarm is a city built on the lands of the Kulin Nation peoples; Traditional Owners who continue to maintain deep connections to their country, kin and waterways that have existed for tens of thousands of years. 

Along with Victorian Traditional Owners, Melbourne/Naarm is home to many First Peoples from across the country. 

RISING Artistic Associate Kimberley Moulton (Yorta Yorta), curated the six artists and artworks featured on the [2021 First Peoples Art Trams](https://rising.melbourne/arttrams). For 2022, we're inviting expressions of interest for another curator to take on this important piece of Melbourne’s artistic landscape.

### THE BRIEF

We are inviting Victorian Traditional Owners and First Peoples curators to respond to Melbourne/Naarm and the multiple layers of history, country, community, and connections across Victoria.

Applicants must supply a CV and a Curatorial Statement of no more than 300 words for the 2022 Art Trams project—this will form the basis of the artistic Expression of Interest (EOI). Your statement should inspire artist submissions that add positively to the public experience of commuting in Melbourne/Naarm. There will be up to six (6) trams available for the artist EOI.

Your statement will be assessed on the following criteria:

- Strength of the creative vision
- Originality of Curatorial Statement and how it responds to the project (i.e. riding the tramlines each day)
- Experience in curation, project management and working collaboratively with First Peoples community 

### WHO CAN APPLY?

To be selected as a 2022 Melbourne Art Trams curator: 

- You must identify as First Peoples from Victoria and/OR 
- First Peoples from interstate but  Victoria is the primary location in which you live and work

### WHO DECIDES?   

Melbourne Art Tram Curator applicants will be interviewed by RISING Co-Artistic Directors and Artistic Associate who will make a recommendation to the Melbourne Art Tram Partnership Group.

The Group is made up of a majority of First Peoples from each partner organisation (employees, board members or other internal stakeholders) comprising representatives of Creative Victoria, Department of Transport, Yarra Trams and RISING. Group members work with the Melbourne Art Tram Curator to lend expertise from their respective fields, ensuring cultural safety is upheld throughout the submission and selection process.  

Melbourne Art Tram Artist EOI submissions will be assessed by the curator and and the Melbourne Art Tram Partnership Group.

### WHAT YOU WILL GET:  

The successful curator will be contracted and receive a fee of AU$15,000 for the project.

Travel expenses and incidentals will be covered by the project.

### TIMELINE & KEY MILESTONES

__The successful curator must be available to finalise and launch the creative project brief for artists between Mon 8—Mon 20 December 2021.__

- Curator Expressions of Interest open—Friday 19 November 2021
- Curator submissions close 12PM—Wednesday 1 December 2021
- Curator interviews—W/C Monday 6 December 2021
- Artist Expressions of Interest open—Mon 20 December—Sun 23 January 2022
- Artists Selected—Mon 14 February 2022
- Final Artwork approvals— March 2022
- Curatorial statements and marketing text completed – April to March
- Artwork Production and installation—April—May 2022
- Media Launch and Opening of Melbourne Arts Trams with the first tram on the network— May 2022

### HOW TO APPLY

__Curator applications have now closed. Thank you to all who submitted. Applicants will be contacted for interviews.__

---

### WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

The successful applicant will be notified in the first week of December 2021 and officially announced soon after.

On selection, the Melbourne Art Tram Curator will finalise their creative brief for the 2022 Melbourne Art Trams artist selection, and the artist expression of interest will be launched in late December.

RISING will support the curator with project management, production, and stakeholder management and a dedicated producer. A graphic designer will also be available to assist artists with digitising and preparing artwork for the trams. 

Once selected, Melbourne Art Tram Artists will review digital proofs to ensure that the final product is an accurate and an acceptable rendering of their artwork with the physical vinyl samples reviewed by Yarra Trams and the Melbourne Art Trams Curator.

Yarra Trams and the Melbourne Art Trams Curator have final decision on tram selection for the selected artists for health and safety and design purposes.

Artwork will be printed and applied to the trams and the launch of the first Melbourne Art Tram will mark the opening of RISING 2022. Remaining Art Trams will be released over the following weeks. Trams will be run on the network for 12 months (unless impacted operationally).


2022 Art Trams — Curator Call-Out

Empowerment, collaboration, generosity and inclusion are part of RISING’s DNA. We invite all to participate, to be represented or at least be present. We believe to be excluded is to be invisible.

__Access and Inclusion Feedback__

We recognise that feeling truly welcomed by RISING extends far beyond what has been possible in 2021. If you have a moment to share your experiences please reach out and let us know what we got right—or what needs our attention—so we can take aim at building the inclusive festival of our dreams in 2022.

Please send us an email at <feedback@rising.melbourne> or via mail to PO Box 10, Flinders Lane, Victoria 8009. We’ll respond in writing within 48 business hours. 

## ACCESSIBILITY

We will be offering several access and assistive services for different program items. More information and services will be added as we get closer to the festival. Check event pages for the below icons.

| ![Assistive Listening](https://exhibitionist-rising.s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/Access+Icons/Assistive+Listening.svg) | __Assistive Listening__ |
| ---------- | ---------- |

This symbol indicates an event venue has a hearing loops or assistive listening system available to assist you if you are hard of hearing. These systems transmit sound from the event directly through your hearing aid or through venue-provided headphones. We recommend you contact the venue directly for further information on or assistance with listening services.

| ![Auslan Interpreting](https://exhibitionist-rising.s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/Access+Icons/Auslan+translation.svg) | __Auslan Interpreting__ |
| ---------- | ---------- |

RISING is providing Auslan Interpreted tours and Interpreted sessions for specific events across the festival program. Look for the Auslan symbol displayed on the event page or check the Accessibility Services section using the blue dots links below. Use the promo code AUSLAN or the booking links below to secure your spot. 

| ![Audio Described Tours](https://exhibitionist-rising.s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/Access+Icons/Audio+described+tours.svg) | __Audio Described Tours__ |
| ---------- | ---------- |

RISING is providing Audio Described sessions and walking tours for a number of events. An audio describer might describe what is happening on stage or on a screen in real time, or how an exhibition looks, which may be useful if you are blind or have low vision. This service will usually mean a personal listening device is provided. Use the promo code DESCRIPTION or one of the booking links below to secure your spot. 

| ![Relaxed Performances](https://exhibitionist-rising.s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/Access+Icons/Relaxed+Performance.svg) | __Relaxed Performances__ |
| ---------- | ---------- |

Open to everyone, these RISING sessions have been specifically designed to create a safe and welcoming environment for people who feel they might benefit from a more relaxed environment. This might be useful for you if you have autism, sensory sensitivities or a learning disability, or live with anxiety or have experienced trauma.

Events listed as relaxed performances have committed to designing one or more performances with thoughtful changes to the lighting or sound. RISING will be announcing relaxed performances soon.

| ![Captioning](https://exhibitionist-rising.s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/Access+Icons/Open+Captioning-1.svg) | __Captioned performances__ |
| ---------- | ---------- |

For these performances, captions are displayed on a screen for those of you who prefer to read what is being said. Check the ‘Accessibility’ section on each event page for dates of captioned performances and details about Captioning. 

### Venue accessibility

Our aim is to make sure you have all the information you need to enjoy RISING and that you feel welcome whether you use a mobility aid or cane, assistance animal, or you are bringing a companion.

We also recommend visiting [ptv.vic.gov.au](https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/) for the most up-to-date information on accessible transport to your event of choice.

Venues where access conditions are more challenging, such as at older or heritage listed buildings, can be identified by the symbol for Assisted Access as described below. If you have access needs or hold a Companion Card and want to book a ticket for your Companion don’t forget to let us know byur Customer Service team on 03 9662 4242 or via email.

__Venue Access Drop-Down__

Click on the Venue Access drop-down on each event page to see details on following:

- Nearby accessible parking options
- Nearby accessible drop-off points
- The closest wheelchair-accessible tram and train stops
- The approximate distance covered by a participant to complete the experience
- The location of accessible entrances and bathrooms
- Hearing augmentation available in the venue
- Intra-site transport options available within the venue
- Dog-rest areas

We also recommend visiting [ptv.vic.gov.au](https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/) journey for the most up-to-date accessible transport services to your event of choice.

| ![Assisted Access](https://exhibitionist-rising.s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/Access+Icons/Assisted+Access.svg) | __Assisted Access__ |
| ---------- | ---------- |

This symbol indicates assistance from a Companion is necessary for wheelchair users to navigate the space. Please see the Venue Access section of the event page for details of our Assisted Access plan for that venue and contact our customer service team to arrange a free companion assistance ticket along with your booking.

| ![Wheelchair Accessible](https://exhibitionist-rising.s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/Access+Icons/Wheelchair+Access.svg) | __Wheelchair Accessible__ |
| ---------- | ---------- |

Most RISING venues are wheelchair accessible. Where the wheelchair symbol can be found on an event page, then the venue has indicated to RISING that they are wheelchair accessible. Look out for the symbol on the event pages. 

### Companion Cards

Companion Card holders are entitled to free companion ticket to RISING events, experiences and performances. Call 03 9662 4242 or let us know via email. You can present your card to our box office team on arrival. We welcome Companion Card tickets at all our events, however if Companions wishing to partake in the meal aspect of our food events will need to purchase a separate ticket. Head here for more information on [Companion Cards](https://www.companioncard.vic.gov.au/).

## INCLUSION

We actively seek out, invite and include the multitude of communities and cultures that make up Melbourne with a focus on honouring First Peoples’ and culturally diverse stories.

At RISING, we have plans and strategies in place to keep us on track—an Accessibility Action Plan, a Reconciliation Plan, an Equity Action Plan and a Community Engagement Strategy—but we don't just write policy documents, we take action.

We recognise we won’t get everything right straight out of the gate. We invite constructive criticism and we don't shy away from challenging the status quo. We're prepared to rip things up and start again. 

### Our inclusion goals for Year One are

- Collaborate with First Peoples leaders and communities to connect a broader audience to this rich culture
- Be informed, aware and interested in the issues that impact the city, and our place in the world
- Move the perception of the arts from pretentious and elitist, to democratic and inclusive
- Generate moments of intangible, social and ceremonial transcendence
- Embed cultural diversity within the organisation
- Bring people from different cultural, political and social backgrounds together and help them share their stories
- Bring art to public places, curating a program that includes free and low-cost experiences to invite participation and discovery
- Create moments of shared ritual, where people can transcend the everyday and feel a connection to their community through breaking bread, art and expression
- Foster a culture of curiosity and enquiry
- Encourage different views of the world and trust lived experience


Accessibility and Inclusion

A surge of art, music. performance and ceremony in the heart of Melbourne. Celebrating the rise of the full moon and the falling of night, the city will be energised with large-scale installations, performance, and communal ritual; an open call to take part in the making of a new tradition for Melbourne.

RISING returns 1—12 June 2022.

View the 2021 RISING program [here](https://2021.rising.melbourne/). 


RISING is a surge of art, music, performance and ceremony in the heart of the city: 26 May – 6 June 2021. 

# TICKETING

__Q. What are RISING's terms & conditions of sale?__

A.	Our full terms and conditions can be viewed [here](https://exhibitionist-rising.s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/PDFs/Terms+and+Conditions/Terms+and+Conditions+of+sale+v2+Nov22.pdf "Ticketing Terms and Conditions").

__Q. I can no longer attend my event because I’m unwell or due to COVID-19 restrictions. Can I get a refund or reschedule?__

A.	We have a flexible ticketing policy which allows you to reschedule your session or request a refund. Please refer to our [COVID-Safe](https://rising.melbourne/covid-safe) page for information about RISING’s COVID-19 policies and planning. 

__Q. Can I buy a ticket to the Patricia Piccinini exhibition on the day?__

A.	We recommend booking tickets in advance. You can call our customer service team on (03) 9662 4242 to check for last minute tickets.

__Q. Can I get a printed ticket posted to me?__

A. As part of our sustainability and COVID-Safe practices, we don’t post tickets. Digital tickets replace our printed tickets and are made available 48 hours prior to your event. If you’re unable to access digital tickets, you can contact our customer service team via email or phone to arrange venue collection.

__Q. When will I get my ticket?__

A. You’ll be able to access your digital tickets 48 hours prior to your event. We’ll send instructions to the email address you book with, so make sure it’s one you regularly check and can access on the go. The confirmation email you receive after you complete your order means your place is secured.

__Q. What do I do if haven’t received my digital ticket 48 hours before the event?__

A.	Head to our [Digital Tickets page](https://rising.melbourne/digital-tickets) and enter the email address you used to buy your tickets. You’ll be sent another link to access your tickets. If you’re still having trouble after that, please contact our customer service team via email at ticketing@rising.melbourne or call us on (03) 9662 4242.

__Q. Can I book over the phone?__

A. You sure can—please call us on (03) 9662 4242. Our customer service team will be available 10AM–5PM, Monday—Friday. If the phone line is unattended, please leave a message and we'll get back to you. You can also send us an email. 

__Q. Do I qualify for a concession or discounted ticket price?__

A. If you hold any of the following, you’re eligible for a concession priced ticket. Please come prepared to show your proof of concession with your ticket at the venue.
•	Children aged 16 years and under
•	Full-time Students (including international students)
•	Pensioners
•	Seniors
•	Victorian Carer Card holders
•	Health Care Card holders
•	Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance members

# Patricia Piccinini’s A Miracle Constantly Repeated

__Q. Is A Miracle Constantly Repeated open?__

A. Patricia Piccinini's *A Miracle Constantly Repeated* reopened on Monday 8 November and has been extended until the end of RISING 2022. You can [book tickets](https://tickets.rising.melbourne/patricia-piccinini) up to 12 June 2022.  

__Q. Do I have to book ahead for the exhibition?__

A. We recommend booking ahead to avoid disappointment. You can call our customer service team on (03) 9662 4242 to check for last minute tickets.

__Q. Are cloaking services available? Will there be bag checks?__

A. Cloaking is unavailable at this time. Your bags may be checked on entry and exit. 

__Q. Can I use a pram or baby carrier?__

A. Yes, you can wear your baby carrier. Prams are not allowed in the exhibition and can be parked in the Lounge on Level 2. Lift access is available.

__Q. Can I use my camera at the exhibition?__

A. You’re welcome to film and take pictures for personal use. Professional equipment, including tripods, and filming for commercial purposes, are not permitted.

__Q. Is the exhibition suitable for children and families?__

A. This is a subjective question–we think Patricia Piccinini’s fantastical creatures inspire curiosity and empathy. The themes of the exhibition include resilience, care and an optimistic future. You know your kids and family best and what’s appropriate for them. We suggest looking at the images from the exhibition and taking a look at the [Artist’s Guide](https://miracle.rising.melbourne/) so you can make an informed decision. 

__Q. Who are the authorised ticket sellers for this event?__

A. RISING is the only authorised ticket seller for the exhibition at Flinders Street Station.

__Q. What time do I need to arrive before my session?__

A. As we are staggering entry to manage numbers, we ask that you arrive as close as possible to your allocated time.

__Q. Is there wheelchair access to the venue?__

A. Yes, there is. Including a lift up to the exhibition. Unfortunately, being an old building, the upper levels do not have wheelchair accessible bathrooms, though there is a hybrid ambulant toilet located on the third floor. A wheelchair accessible automatic toilet is available on Flinders Street, close to the exhibition entrance.

__Q. How much time should I allow to see the exhibition?__

A. Taking in the whole exhibition takes about an hour. Please note that the exhibition closes at 9PM.

# COVID-19

Please refer to our COVID-Safe page for information about RISING’s COVID-19 policies and planning. Find it [here](/covid-safe)

# GENERAL

__Q. What is RISING?__

A. RISING is a surge of art, music, performance and ceremony in the heart of Melbourne –a new festival in Victoria’s cultural calendar. __RISING returns 1—12 June 2022.__

__Q. When will the program be announced?__

A. We’re building RISING’s 2022 program right now. Check out our 2021 program [here](https://2021.rising.melbourne/festival-program).

__Q. I’m not sure if RISING is for me. What kind of events will be in the program?__

A. RISING is for everyone. From visual art, installations, performance and live music to unique food events, we’ll have all kinds of experiences for you to enjoy whatever you’re into.

__Q. Who is curating the festival?__

A. Hannah Fox and Gideon Obarzanek are RISING’s co-Artistic Directors, and lead a diverse team of national and international arts professionals in programming the festival.

__Q. I would like to volunteer, intern or work for RISING. How do I apply?__

A. Thank you for your interest! We advertise employment opportunities on our [Jobs](https://rising.melbourne/jobs) page and will be advertising any volunteering opportunities on our social channels (follow us [here](https://www.facebook.com/risingmelb/), [here](https://www.linkedin.com/company/rising-melbourne), [here](https://twitter.com/risingmelbourne) and [here](https://www.instagram.com/rising.melbourne/)) and via email ([subscribe here](https://rising.melbourne/subscribe)).

Frequently Asked Questions

People

Jobs

We know that climate change is real. We acknowledge that traditional festival activities have been, by design, unsustainable, and that we can do better.  

RISING strives to deliver events with an enduring and balanced approach to environmental responsibility, social progress, cultural consciousness and economic activity. We make decisions as an organisation, balancing the needs of people, planet and profit. We value community, diversity, inclusion, accessibility and sustainability. 

RISING is minimising our impact on the environment. We aspire to produce zero waste and are working towards this goal by consuming fewer resources and designing out waste in the first place. With this lens we’re choosing products and services that can contribute to positive social, cultural and economic development. 

Even if it’s a bit inconvenient, even if it’s hard, even if we fail, we want to take the lead and engage our event community in the conversation. And each year, we want to continually question the way we do things as we learn and grow.

### WHAT WE’RE UP TO

- We’re learning from experts, doing our research and upskilling our team to make sustainable choices across all departments
- We’re aligning our climate-responsible event strategy with science-based targets and globally agreed ambitions
- We’re scrutinising our supply chains and considering the full impacts of the materials and products we use, as we work towards a more circular economy rather than a linear one
- We’re developing a Sustainability Action Plan, Sustainable Procurement Policy and embedding sustainable considerations into our official project processes
- We’re leaning into digital preferences over printing, in house, in marketing and with our cashless and ticketing systems
- We’re approaching our food and beverage offerings as an opportunity to showcase sustainable practice–sustainable farming, fresh, fair and seasonal paddock-to-plate menus, ethically-sourced ingredients always, and minimising single-use plastic in service
- We’re getting wise with merchandise and uniforms, selling useful, reusable, items and thinking circularity when it comes to festival attire. We’re seeking ethically sourced and manufactured products made from durable and sustainable materials
- We’re measuring our carbon footprint to analyse our impact, create a baseline of Greenhouse Gas emission boundaries and set goals for reductions and improvements
- We’re looking into carbon balancing projects to give back to our planet; to restore and regenerate as we rise


Sustainability

About

### CONTACTING THE CUSTOMER SERVICE TEAM
Our customer service team is ready to answer any questions you have about tickets, event information, refunds, and any other feedback you may have. Send them an email at ticketing@rising.melbourne or give them a call on 03 9662 4242, 10AM–5PM, Monday—Friday. If the phone line is unattended, please leave a message and we'll get back to you.

### DIGITAL TICKETS
As part of our sustainability and COVID-Safe practices, we’re using digital tickets. You’ll be able to access your tickets 48 hours prior to your event—we’ll send you instructions on how to get them. If you haven’t received your tickets before your event, head to our [Digital Tickets page](/digital-tickets) and enter the email address you used to buy your tickets. You’ll be sent another link to access your tickets. If you’re still having trouble after that, please contact our customer service team via email at ticketing@rising.melbourne or call us on (03) 9662 4242.

### PHONE SALES
If you'd like to book a ticket over the phone, call us on 03 9662 4242. Our customer service team will be available 10AM–5PM, Monday—Friday. If the phone line is unattended, please leave a message and we'll get back to you. You can also send us an email at ticketing@rising.melbourne.

### TICKET PRICES
As you can imagine, it’s a tricky time to be putting on a festival. RISING reserves the right to change pricing at any time and without notice.

### CONCESSIONS
If you hold any of the following, you’re eligible for a concession priced ticket. Please come prepared to show your proof of concession with your ticket at the venue:
• Children aged 16 years and under
•	Full-time students (including international students)
•	Pensioners
•	Seniors
•	Victorian Carer Card holders
•	Health Care Card holders
•	Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance members

### REFUNDS AND EXCHANGES
Unfortunately, it’s not possible for RISING to refund completed bookings, except as required by law or in accordance with the [LPA Ticketing Code of Conduct](https://liveperformance.com.au/resources/?type=919)...

That being said, we want everyone who attends RISING to feel safe and comfortable. Stay home if you’re feeling unwell and let us know ahead of the event if you can’t attend—we’ll sort you out. Find out more about our COVID-Safe ticketing policy [here](/covid-safe).

## FEES AND CHARGES
Ticket prices for events listed on this website are inclusive of GST and credit card charges.

Depending upon the purchase method, a booking or transaction fee may apply. 

### BOOKING AND TRANSACTION FEES
RISING: $4 per transaction

If you need a breakdown of the GST paid, you can request a tax invoice for completed bookings.

### COMPANIONS
We welcome Companion Cards, see [here](/accessibility-and-inclusion) for details.

### PROGRAM DETAILS
Every effort has been made to ensure program details are correct, however as the past 18 months has shown us, things happen. Details are subject to change where necessary and without notice. We’ll do our best to let you know if they do.

## FEEDBACK AND COMPLAINTS
We hope you have great experience at RISING. If you have thoughts on what we can improve, please send us an email at feedback@rising.melbourne or via mail to PO Box 10, Flinders Lane, Victoria 8009. We’ll respond in writing within 48 business hours.

Read our full Ticketing Terms and Conditions [here](https://exhibitionist-rising.s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/PDFs/Terms+and+Conditions/Terms+and+Conditions+of+sale+v2+Nov22.pdf "Ticketing Terms and Conditions")

## MAJOR EVENTS DECLARATION  
A major event ticketing declaration has been made under the Major Events Act 2009 (Vic) for Patricia Piccinini’s *A Miracle Constantly Repeated* at the Flinders Street Station Ballroom.

Under the Act, it is illegal for a ticket to be resold, or offered or advertised for resale, for more than 10% above the face value purchase price of the ticket, unless the seller is authorised in writing by the event organiser.

Breaching this Act can result in heavy fines up to $99,132 for an individual and $495,660 for a company.

Purchasing a ticket from an unauthorised seller can result in the ticket holder being denied entry to the event. RISING is the only authorised ticket seller for A Miracle Constantly Repeated.  

For further information about ticket scalping legislation, visit: [vic.gov.au/ticketscalping](https://djpr.vic.gov.au/ticket-scalping)

Ticketing Information


The COVID-19 pandemic forced us to collectively reflect on our world as it has been and to contemplate potential new worlds. Old worlds and hidden worlds have been drawn into focus. RISING called for Victorian artists to respond to this with ambitious ideas for art that could only happen in a festival context. 

The Call to Artists sought proposals for new work from creative individuals, collectives or companies. Not being a funding body, we were looking for ideas suited to a contemporary cultural festival experience. We were particularly interested in ideas that may not work within more conventional arts environments. 

Submissions are currently closed. An advisory group comprising of the RISING national and international curatorial team decided on successful applications. 

NITTY GRITTY

We considered a number of different (and somewhat contradictory) things in the selection process:  

- Ideas that can only be realised in a festival context as opposed to year-round cultural institutions 
- Ideas that are generous, celebratory, of the moment and for the community 
- Ideas that are radical and ambitious 
- Ideas that could apply to multiple cities and festivals, that present opportunities for co-commissioning and future presentation 
- Ideas that are specific to Melbourne, our time and place 

WHAT HAPPENED

In the first round, 100 successful applicants received $2,000AUD to develop their initial proposal further and resubmit into a second round. From there, successful applicants received a creative development fee to facilitate a month-long development of the work. RISING festival producers and production managers worked with artists to support this development, providing expertise and advice on the work’s viability for RISING’s specific context. The outcomes from this development period were then considered by the RISING curatorial team for presentation at the inaugural RISING 2021 and beyond to future festivals depending on the project.


The Melbourne Art Trams Program returns in 2021 with all designs by First Peoples artists.

Melbourne is a city built on the lands of the Kulin Nation peoples; Traditional Owners who continue to maintain deep connections to their country, kin and waterways that have existed for tens of thousands of years.

Along with Victorian Traditional Owners, the place now known as Melbourne is home to many First Peoples from across the country.

The city transforms every day, but beneath the concrete foundations ancient waterways continue to flow. The old gums, scarred with the lines of canoes, stand tall alongside towering skyscrapers, and fresh and salt water continue to meet in estuaries with the moon’s tidal pull.

While the city is changing, country and First Peoples culture is all around us. From the earth to the sky and the stories in the stars, to the built environment, tramways and laneways.

__Curated by Kimberley Moulton (Yorta Yorta), the 2021 First Peoples Art Trams artists are:__  

- [Deanne Gilson (Wadawurrung)](/wormhole/2021-melbourne-art-trams-deanne-gilson)
- [Thomas Marks (Wotjobaluk/Gunaikurnai)](/wormhole/2021-melbourne-art-trams-thomas-marks)
- [Aunty Rochelle Patten (Dhudhuroa/Wemba Wemba/Yorta Yorta)](/wormhole/2021-melbourne-art-trams-aunty-rochelle-patten)
- [Jarra Karalinar Steel (Boonwurrung/Wemba Wemba)](/wormhole/2021-melbourne-art-trams-jarra-karalinar)
- [Ray Thomas (Brabrawooloong Gunnai)](/wormhole/2021-melbourne-art-trams-ray-thomas)
- [Aunty Zeta Thomson (Wurundjeri/Yorta Yorta)](/wormhole/2021-melbourne-art-trams-aunty-zeta-thomson)

The top six selected artworks speak to diverse themes of environmental ecologies and caring for Country, to personal stories of journeying and family, and reflect on the history and cultural heritage of First Peoples in the landscape. As a collective of moving artworks all six share with us the strength and beauty of creative cultural expression and the interwoven connections and continuous cultures of First Peoples in Victoria.

We received close to 60 applications for the 2021 Melbourne Art Trams, and thank everyone who took the time and effort to enter.

### NITTY GRITTY

Victorian Traditional Owners and First Peoples artists were invited to respond to Melbourne and the multiple layers of history, country, diverse community and connections across Victoria. Submissions have now closed.

ART TRAMS CRITERIA

To be selected as a 2021 Melbourne Art Trams artist, applicants were required to be:

- A Victorian Traditional Owner OR
- A First Peoples artist where Victoria is the primary location in which they lived and worked OR
- A First Peoples artist whose practice or body of work over the last five years has primarily taken place in Victoria

 The following creative criteria applied:

- Strength of the creative vision
- Originality of response to the creative brief
- Technical feasibility
- How the artwork responds to its context (ie. riding the tramlines each day)

WHO DECIDED?

Submissions were assessed by curator and RISING Artistic Associate Kimberley Moulton (Yorta Yorta) and the Melbourne Art Tram Partnership Group comprising representatives of Creative Victoria, Department of Transport, Yarra Trams and RISING. This group is be made up of a majority of First Peoples with additional members to support technical and marketing requirements.

2021 First Peoples Melbourne Art Trams

A Call To Artists

### [DONATE NOW](https://tickets.rising.melbourne/donate)

RISING is an engine and platform for powerful art and social connection. As Melbourne’s major festival, RISING will play a fundamental role in reconnecting neighbours, Australian cities and international communities after a period of separation, loss and economic hardship. Art binds us through collective wonder; it proposes solutions for how we rebuild. 

An association with RISING presents an opportunity that can’t be found anywhere else. You’ll play an integral role in rebuilding what was broken, help create unifying new cultural works and reintroduce Australian audiences to the joys of shared experience. We can’t do this without your help. 

PHILANTHROPY

Join a community whose passion, loyalty and commitment to the arts helps us create extraordinary experiences that energise our city, fulfill its artistic potential and introduce broad audiences to bold new work. 

Find out more about our annual giving programs, [RISING Constellations](/donate), and our [Commissioning Circle](/commissioning-circle), and join [our inspiring supporters](/our-supporters) whose generosity makes everything you see in our festival possible.  

To chat about how you can support, or to enquire about setting up a regular donation, please contact Ben or James:

| BEN LEE    | JAMES RALSTON    |
| ---------- | ---------- |
| ~~DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR~~  | ~~PHILANTHROPY MANAGER~~ |
| 0402 289 219   | 0425 350 362  |
| [b.lee@rising.melbourne](mailto:b.lee@rising.melbourne) | [j.ralston@rising.melbourne](mailto:j.ralston@rising.melbourne) |

PARTNERSHIPS

RISING welcomes brands to be part of a cultural event that is guaranteed to grab the attention of Melburnians and beyond. A tailored partnership can be developed based on key objectives, touchpoints, and budget. From presenting a major district through to activating in one of Melbourne’s hidden back alleys – anything is possible. 

Interested in partnering with RISING? Reach out to [Johanna](mailto:johanna@thebossagency.com)

Our annual giving supporters are the heavenly bodies at the heart of our festival. Their generosity makes everything you see in theatres, galleries and on the streets, possible.

RISING is centred on the idea that art and culture is not just amusement or entertainment, but an essential part of people’s lives. We invite all to participate, to be represented or to be present for the festival. Our RISING Constellations support art and culture in this spirit.
All gifts to our annual giving program, large or small, support hundreds of artists and arts workers throughout the year to provide experiences for everyone to enjoy.

Join RISING’s Constellations with your tax-deductible gift and become an integral part of the festival year-round.

### [JOIN US NOW](https://tickets.rising.melbourne/donate/constellations)

For other ways to donate please contact our Philanthropy Manager:

JAMES RALSTON  
~~PHILANTHROPY MANAGER~~  
0425 350 362  
[james@rising.melbourne](mailto:james@rising.melbourne)


RISING Constellations

> “*Commissioning new work supports an act of creation, of bringing into being … moments that otherwise would never have existed. Commissions challenge all those involved in the process: they are tough purposeful ventures that require time, space, patience, grit, trust, respect and acceptance.
>Commissions are financially demanding as well as being fulfilling and exhilarating. They should be unpredictable, risky and on the edge. If failure is not a possibility, the challenge hasn’t been taken seriously enough*.”  
> 
>— Rupert Myer AO, Commissioning Circle member

One of RISING’s distinguishing features is its emphasis on new commissions by leading Australian and international artists, as well as large-scale, participatory public art events.

RISING’s Commissioning Circle helps us invest in local artists now. It guides leading national and international artists to create and develop ambitious works that bring people together.

Members gain access to the festival’s Artistic Directors and curatorial team, updates about plans and future commissions, and are invited to exclusive events that bring you behind the scenes and into the creative process.

RISING works with artists and producers to make original, commissioned productions over several years across multiple festivals. Joining the Commissioning Circle requires a three-year minimum commitment.

To learn more about our Commissioning Circle, and how you can be involved, please contact our Development Director:

BEN LEE  
~~DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR~~  
0402 289 219  
[b.lee@rising.melbourne](mailto:b.lee@rising.melbourne) 


Commissioning Circle

RISING thanks our supporters, whose inspiring generosity makes everything you see in our festival possible.

### COMMISSIONING CIRCLE

|      |
| ---------- |
| Jeremy Blackshaw       |
| Anna Foley and Dashiell Gantner       |
| Vallejo Gantner       |
| Linda Herd       |
| Rupert and Annabel Myer       |
| Lou Weis and Kim Kneipp       |

### DANCING ARCHITECTS

|      |
| ---------- |
| Bird de la Coeur Architects      |
| BKK Architects      |
| Clare Cousins Architects      |
| Eli Giannini and Chris Jones       |
| HASSELL      |
| Jackson Clements Burrows      |
| Neil Masterton and Shane Williams      |
| Ian and Gill McDougall       |
| Ruth Wilson, Architectus     |
| Roger Wood       |

### RISING CONSTELLATIONS

| __HYDRA: $10,000+__   |
| ---------- |
| Jennifer Darbyshire and David Walker     |
| Vallejo Gantner      |
| Maureen Wheeler AO and Tony Wheeler AO      |
| Anonymous (1)     |

| __CETUS: $5,000+__| 
| ---------- |
| Canny Quine Foundation       |
| Min Li Chong       |
| Christine Clough       |
| Lilian Hou JP       |
| Cassy Liberman       |
| Peter Lovell and Michael Jan       |
| Rebel Penfold-Russell OAM and Ian Low       |
| Chris and Biddy Van Aanholt       |

| __PEGASUS: $2,500+__   |
| ---------- |
| Marc Besen AC and Eva Besen AO      |
| Lawrence McDonald and Christian Klettner      |
| Ramses Foundation      |
| Dr Yvonne Shafir      |
| Dahle Suggett and Peter Cole      |
| Ricci Swart      |
| Leonard Vary and Dr Matt Collins QC      |
| Anonymous (1)      |

| __CENTAURUS: $1,000+__   |
| ---------- |
| Margaret Astbury       |
| Jane Barrett and Dr Jeremy Goad       |
| Sally and Rob Bruce      |
| Lynne Burgess      |
| Maggie Cash       |
| John Cronin       |
| Mary Davidson      |
| Teresa Engelhard      |
| Jane Evans       |
| Fender Katsalidis      |
| Rosemary Forbes and Ian Hocking      |
| Sophie Gannon       |
| Tim Goodwin and David Inge       |
| Ted Hochschwender and Anne Marie Davies       |
| Prof Andrea Hull AO       |
| Sue Hunt       |
| Kathryn Kings       |
| Benjamin Lee       |
| Cameron Lewis       |
| Simon and Niamh McCall       |
| Morgan McLay       |
| George Morstyn       |
| Julia Nelson      |
| Elizabeth Proust AO      |
| Rohitha Rupesinghe and Mi Fon Lew      |
| Maria and Martin Ryan       |
| Helen Sawczak and Richard Niall       |
| Lynne Sherwood and the late Tim Sherwood       |
| Tom Smyth       |
| John So AO JP       |
| Upotipotpon Foundation       |
| Rosemary Walls       |
| Kevin and Liz Walsh       |
| Ralph Ward-Ambler AM and Barbara Ward-Ambler       |
| Freya Waterson and Brad Spolding       |
| Pinky Watson       |
| Michael Watt and Cecilie Hall       |
| Ian Watts OAM       |
| Maria Weight      |
| Gael Wilson       |
| Raini Zambelli        |
| Vic Zbar and Pamela Macklin       |
| Anonymous (10)      |

| __ORION: $250+__   |
| ---------- |
| (48)       |

RISING also thanks our 2020 donors who supported the A Call to Artists program, enabling us to get Victorian artists back to work last year. 


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