The Torch Gallery (Carlton)
The Torch Gallery in Carlton is a free-entry Aboriginal art gallery showcasing an inspiring collection of paintings, sculptures, ceramics and other creative works by First Nations artists who have experienced incarceration in Victoria.
The gallery is operated by The Torch, a First Peoples-led not-for-profit arts organisation that helps Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people reconnect with culture, develop artistic skills and earn income from their artwork.
Located in a heritage building on Elgin Street, the gallery offers visitors an opportunity to discover contemporary Aboriginal art while learning about the important role creativity and cultural connections can play in people's lives.
The artworks are available for purchase, with 100% of the artwork sale price going directly to the artist.
Aboriginal Art Gallery:
The gallery showcases artwork by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists from across Victoria and other parts of Australia.
Exhibitions and displays include:
- Original Aboriginal paintings.
- Colourful contemporary artworks featuring a variety of styles and techniques.
- Wood carvings and sculptures.
- Ceramics and handcrafted objects.
- Artworks exploring identity, culture and connections to Country.
- Works reflecting personal experiences, aspirations and cultural knowledge.
- Changing exhibitions featuring artists supported by The Torch.
Visitors can discover the stories and cultural backgrounds of artists represented in the collection.
Indigenous Arts in Prisons and Community Program:
The Torch has supported First Nations artists affected by incarceration since 2011 through its Indigenous Arts in Prisons and Community Program.
The programme provides opportunities for artists in Victorian correctional facilities and those returning to the community to develop their artistic skills, reconnect with cultural knowledge and build pathways into the arts industry.
Activities include:
- Artistic mentoring and skills development.
- Opportunities to explore Aboriginal cultural identity and connections to Country.
- Support for artists developing their professional practice.
- Exhibitions showcasing artwork created by programme participants.
- Assistance with artwork sales, commissions and licensing.
- Ongoing support for artists after leaving prison.
The Torch takes no commission on artwork sales, with the full sale price going directly to the artist.
Exhibitions:
The Torch presents changing exhibitions throughout the year, both at its Carlton gallery and at other venues around Melbourne.
Two of its major exhibition series are Confined and Future Dreaming.
Confined is an annual exhibition featuring work by First Nations artists who are currently incarcerated or have recently returned to the community.
Future Dreaming explores the aspirations, hopes and visions of First Nations artists in Victorian correctional facilities.
The exhibitions provide opportunities for artists to share their stories and creative ideas with a wider audience.
Some exhibitions also include artist talks, guided tours, live art demonstrations and workshops.
See current exhibitions and associated activities.
Art Gallery Shop:
The gallery has a retail collection featuring original artwork and products designed by First Nations artists.
Items may include:
- Original paintings and limited-edition artworks.
- Handcrafted sculptures and carved objects.
- Ceramics.
- Silk scarves and clothing featuring Aboriginal artwork.
- Woven earrings and jewellery.
- Greeting cards and calendars.
- Homewares and gifts featuring licensed artwork.
The Torch also operates an online shop.
See artworks and products available for purchase.
Workshops and Public Programmes:
The Torch occasionally presents public programmes associated with its exhibitions.
Depending on the event, activities may include:
- Artist-led exhibition tours.
- Talks about Aboriginal art and cultural practice.
- Live painting demonstrations.
- Weaving workshops.
- Opportunities to hear artists discuss their work.
Activities are scheduled for particular exhibitions rather than offered as permanent daily programmes.
Children's suitability and minimum ages should be checked for individual workshops.
See upcoming exhibitions and public programmes.
Accessibility:
The Torch Gallery occupies a heritage building with several steps at its entrances.
The main entrance has three steps with a handrail and an additional small step into the building.
An alternative entrance is available through a side gate, although this also involves steps.
There is no completely step-free entrance.
The gallery spaces are generally spacious, and an all-gender ambulant toilet is available on the ground floor.
Visitors with accessibility requirements are encouraged to contact the gallery before visiting.
Getting There:
The Torch Gallery is located at 146 Elgin Street in Carlton, close to Lygon Street.
Tram routes 1 and 6 stop near the corner of Lygon Street and Elgin Street.
Route 96 trams also stop nearby on Nicholson Street.
Limited street parking is available around the gallery, with additional paid parking at Lygon Court.
Visitors need to ring the doorbell at the main entrance to be admitted by gallery staff.
Opening Hours:
See current gallery opening hours and visitor information.
Additional viewing appointments may be arranged outside regular gallery hours.
Opening hours may be extended for particular exhibitions and events.
Cost:
Free entry.
Charges apply for artwork purchases and some special workshops.
Review:
The Torch Gallery is an interesting cultural attraction that combines contemporary Aboriginal art with an important community purpose.
The artworks are diverse, ranging from colourful paintings and intricate designs to sculptures, ceramics and handcrafted objects.
Children interested in art may enjoy discovering the different colours, patterns and techniques used by the artists, while older children and adults may appreciate the personal stories behind the works.
One of the most significant aspects of the gallery is its support for First Nations artists who have experienced incarceration.
The Torch helps artists maintain cultural connections, develop creative skills and earn income through their artwork, providing an important opportunity for personal development and self-expression.
The changing exhibitions add to the experience, particularly when artist talks, live demonstrations or workshops are available.
The historic building is also an attractive setting, with spacious exhibition rooms and high ceilings.
This is primarily a traditional art gallery rather than an interactive children's attraction, and regular hands-on children's activities are not advertised.
However, families with an interest in Aboriginal art and culture may find the gallery rewarding, especially when combining a visit with other attractions around Carlton.
With free admission, an interesting collection of artwork and a programme that directly benefits First Nations artists, The Torch Gallery is a worthwhile cultural destination in inner Melbourne.
Location
146 Elgin Street, Carlton 3053 View Map
✆ (03) 9042 1236
Email Enquiry
Web Links
→ thetorch.org.au
→ The Torch on Facebook
