Opening Thursday 1 November (6-8pm)

Exhibition 1 - 11 November 2007

As a suburb, St Kilda’s natural and urban landscape has long captivated the interest of artists. However, perhaps even more intriguing than its well known sites, are the residents of St Kilda. In a constant state of flux, St Kilda’s human presence directly shapes its public spaces, community centres and businesses. It represents an intriguing mix of cultures and sub-cultures – such as European immigrants, sportspeople, students and backpackers – who live side by side and often on top of each other. This begs the question - does St Kilda have a defined ‘community’, or are the various pockets of its population living in dislocation from each other? Who is St Kilda? Was there and will there ever be a definitive answer to that question?

Tucked behind Acland St, adjacent to Luna Park, and close to the bay, the St Kilda Bowling Club Studios occupy a unique position in Melbourne’s most recognisable and iconic neighbourhood. It’s artists are perfectly placed to explore this idea of a “St Kilda community”. The theme of this show is one of obvious relevance to both the Bowling Club Studios artists and those viewing their work, either in the studio itself or at the annual group exhibition. The beauty of a diverse group of artists, such as these, is the myriad of interpretations produced in response to the single thematic thread - neighbourhood watching.

Chelsea Harris

Curator, Neighbourhood Watching