Blockprojects

Block Projects began its life in early 2007 in a shoebox-sized space on the fourth floor of an inconspicuous building with no elevator in Block Arcade, Melbourne. Those who made it up the relentless flights of narrow staircase were rewarded for their efforts by an exhibition space that valued beautiful and interesting work over the name, age and background of the artists who produced it. This became the mission of Block Projects, to create a “serious space with a liberal, open curatorial program” that could show anything from the emerging Alicia Frankovich to the most renowned artist of the 20th century, Joseph Beuys. This vision, created by directors Jeremy Kibel, Steven Asquith and Yasmin Nguyen attracted somewhat of a cult following, tapping into that distinctively ‘Melbourne’ inclination to hide the coolest places in the most obscure laneways. Block Projects enjoyed some great success and a most excellent Christmas party that year, but it was destined for greater things. In 2008 Block Projects moved to current home on Flinders Lane. Jan Minchin from Tolarno Galleries was moving spaces and most graciously offered the lease of her old space to Jeremy, Steven and Yasmin. The size of Block Projects’ exhibition space had multiplied by several times. A few minor renovations were made over the Christmas break – the carpet was torn up and the concrete polished to an admirable shine; and an extra wall was built to convert the existing L shaped space into an impressive rectangle. The inaugural show at the New Block was by New Zealand born artist Richard Lewer. Image and text panels sprawled the length of the main wall, utilising the luxurious wall space of Block Projects’ new home. Lewer’s sell out exhibition was followed by a string of impressive shows by artists from Melbourne stalwart Peter Walsh, to Sydney’s enigmatic what. This year also saw two diverse group shows, The Aliens Can Smell Our Blood and The Resurrectionists, Block Projects first externally curated exhibition. Looking forward, Block Projects plans to continue to support artists based on the quality of their work and their ability to contribute something challenging and beautiful for their audience. By presenting an interesting and diverse calendar of exhibitions, Block Projects will stay true to its roots as a somewhat grungy, underground space whilst remaining accessible and engaged with its audience.