Ignite Studios

STUDIO SPACES | Currently Accepting Applications for Studio 2, available for lease from May 2024

The two airy studio spaces (floor plan reference - Studios #1 and Studio #2) utilise the original residential living areas of the beautifully restored and heritage listed former Ballina Fire Station. Each studio space is fully secure with lockable doors and range in size from 10m2 to 18m2. All studios are available on a six or twelve month lease to independent creative practitioners from all disciplines, including but not limited to design, visual arts, digital media, photography, performance, film, music, writers, and independant creative industry such as architects, arts administrators, curators, film industry etc. Practitioners from Ballina Shire, Northern Rivers and across NSW are welcome to apply.

For more information or to enquire about applying contact NRCG's Creative Programs Producer on 02 6686 1217 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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APPLICATION INFORMATION

Studio tenancies are available on a six or twelve month lease.

To be considered for future studio spaces when they become available complete an application and return to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

ABOUT

The subsidised creative studio spaces at Ignite Studios are designed to encourage co-working and an open platform for professional development and opportunity. Providing greater access to shared creative space in the Northern Rivers region, Ignite Studios aims to support and nurture innovative arts and creative industry through:

• provision of subsidised workspaces
• enabling creative projects and/or creative start-ups
• networking with arts influencers, local communities and peers through NRCG annual program
• building a hub for creative industry and ideas

The two creative spaces pertaining to this application are designated as Studio #1 and Studio #2. Refer floor plan for facility layout.

INCLUDED

Empty space with basic lighting/power outlets and picture rails for hanging of artworks All outgoings incl. electricity/water* Outdoor cold water wash basin area Private lockable studio spaces 24 hour access Air conditioning (studios 1 and 4 only) Bathroom facilities Wireless internet access (when available) Cross promotion in NRCG online marketing (when applicable) Wheelchair accessible Professional development and networking opportunities through the annual NRCG program and other special events. Ability to sell products thorugh NRCG Shop (subject to a 33% consignment commission)

Standard Waste Collection and grounds maintenance 6 or 12 month lease period with option to renew Ample street parking Conditional Inclusions A kitchenette (Note: only available if the residential AiR space is not in use). Wireless internet is installed for Gallery programs and residents artists can utilise free of charge when available. (Note: this is a courtesy and not included in the lease agreement) Renters can utilise additional spaces, ‘The Engine Room’ and ‘The Locker Room’ to run workshops or special projects for an additional fee. (Note: standard workshop space hire fees are applicable)

* exception for high power consumption equipment such as kilns. Usage would be metered and charged at an additional cost based on monthly usage.

STUDIO RENTAL FEES

Studio rental is paid monthly in advance by Direct Debit from a nominated bank account set-up at time of signing the agreement. A security deposit of 4 weeks rent will be required. 

Studio artists can access ‘The Locker Room’ and ‘The Engine Room’ for an additional fee when available.

Studio #	Area (floor)	Size	Weekly Rental (2023/24)
Studio 1	14m2	3.6 x 4 Metres	$130 inc. gst
Studio 2	14m2	3.6 x 4 Metres	$130 inc. gst

Note: Fees are subject to annual review by Ballina Shire Council

STUDIO AGREEMENT

Studio tenants will be issued with a Studio Agreement governing all aspects of their access to the Ignite Studios facilities. Due to the heritage of the building, access and use will be in accordance with certain prescribed conditions for example drilling into, modifying or fixing on to the walls is prohibited. In addition to these conditions, the general terms of the agreement will include the following.

• The Renter will indemnify and keep indemnified Ballina Shire Council (and NRCG), its officers, agents and contractors against all liability for death or injury to persons or loss of or damage to property (including property of BSC and NRCG) and all actions, claims, demands, losses, damages, costs and expenses which may be suffered or sustained pursuant to their Studio Rental Agreement. This indemnity will also apply to any persons and property that is on site at Ignite Studios or NRCG as a consequence of the actions of the Renter either pursuant to or in breach of the conditions of their Studio Agreement.
• Renters are required to have their own Public Liability insurance with cover to the value of $20 million.
• The Renter agrees to comply with all necessary workplace health and safety laws and regulations.
• Access is available 24/7. Standard residential noise restrictions apply after 10pm seven days a week. 
• Creative Studio Spaces are not open to the general public except for open days or special events specified and organised by NRCG.
• Renters are responsible for ensuring the premises are fully secure on leaving the facility, managing waste collection and for keeping their studio clean and tidy at all times.
• Renters are to work within their nominated studio unless an alternative arrangement has been made with NRCG management.
• Studios cannot be utilized for industrial or semi-industrial creative processes, retail sales outlet, public events or unlicensed alcohol sales.

 Spaces are open to:

• Creative practitioners from all creative industries, including but not limited to design, visual arts, digital media, photography, performance, film, music and writers.
• Small independant creative industry (such as film, design, music, architecture, arts administrators, curators etc)
• Creative practioners from all career-stages
• Applicants must be 18 years of age or above

 SELECTION CRITERIA

Final selections will be made balancing a mix of art forms, career stage and studio experience within the facility, in order to encourage diversity and a vibrant creative hub encouraging dialogue, exchange and innovation.

• Quality of work or projects and originality of ideas.
• Value of a studio to the development of the practitioner/s.
• Suitability of art form for a studio space.
• Commitment of time to using the studio.

For further information or to view the spaces contact Ella Millard, Creative Programs Producer by phone on 02 6681 0530  or by email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

NOTIFICATION

Completing this Application does not obligate you to accept a studio and it also does not guarantee that you will be offered a studio. Applicants for studios may be required to attend an interview as part of the assessment of their application.

Download Links:

INFORMATION & APPLICATION: DOWNLOAD LINK

 

WORKSHOP SPACES

Ignite Studios is a multi-disciplinary art space located at 60 Crane Street Ballina, in the heritage listed, former Ballina Fire Station and adjacent to the Northern Rivers Community Gallery building. The facility includes: two resident artist studio spaces, a visiting artist-in-residence (AiR) studio and bedsit, two dedicated workshop spaces for hire, a ceramics kiln firing facility and a ceramics throwing studio to be launched in 2024. The building is wheelchair accessible and has an accessible bathroom.

The ‘Engine Room’ and the ‘Locker Room’ (floor plan reference - Workshop spaces #1 and #2) are dedicated workshop and/or project spaces available for casual hire when not in use for Gallery programs. The ‘Engine Room’ can also be utilised for other experimental or pop-up creative projects such as exhibitions, creative retail spaces, art development projects or events.

THE 'ENGINE ROOM’

Room Dimensions: 4.6m x 9.7m (44m²)  |  Floor to Ceiling Height: 3.25m

Room Features

• Heritage building with exposed brick walls and textured pressed metal ceiling
• Picture Rails
• Concrete floor (Timber maintenance pit 1.9m x 2.2m)
• Natural Light
• Accessible toilet (located in the rear of the building accessed via the ‘Engine Room’ space)

Standard Inclusions:

• 6 x trestle tables
• 20 x folding chairs

Additional trestle tables, chairs and Victorian hanging systems are available on request. All requests for additional items must be requested in the ‘Notes’ section of the booking window at the time of booking; or emailed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. no less than 8 days prior to the activity.

Maximum Seating Capacity:

• Seating ONLY = 32 people // 8 x rows of 4 chairs per row
• Trestles with seating = 36 people // 6 tables with 6 chairs per table

THE 'LOCKER ROOM'

Room Dimensions: 4.6m x 5.8m (22m²)  |  Floor to Ceiling Height: 2.95m

Room Features

• Heritage building with exposed brick walls and textured pressed metal ceiling
• Picture Rails
• Commercial vinyl floor
• Natural Light
• Accessible toilet

Standard Inclusions

• 4 x trestle tables
• 15 x folding chairs

Additional trestle tables, chairs and Victorian hanging systems are available on request. All requests for additional items must be requested in the ‘Notes’ section of the booking window at the time of booking; or emailed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. no less than 8 days prior to the activity.

Maximum Seating Capacity

• Seating ONLY = 20 people // 4 x rows of 5 chairs per row
• Trestles with seating = 20 people // 4 tables with 5 chairs per table

 

HIRE FEES

ENGINE ROOM - WORKSHOP SPACE 1
Hire Duration	Hourly	Full Day	Weekly
Community Rate	$26	$210	$420
Commercial Rate	$47	$375	$750

LOCKER ROOM - WORKSHOP SPACE 2
Hire Duration	Hourly	Full Day	Weekly
Community Rate	$21	$170	$340
Commercial Rate	$37	$290	$585
Hot Desk Hire (9am - 4pm Mon - Fri)		$25

SPECIAL EVENTS HIRE - Locker Room & Engine Room
Hire Duration	Full Day	Weekly
Community Rate	$375	$750
Commercial Rate	$665	$1,330

Note: Council reserves the right to change the conditions of hire, or the fees and charges. Please confirm prices and conditions at the time of booking.

 

HOW TO BOOK

Get in touch with our Creative Programs Producer Ella Millard on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or 02 6686 1217 to make a booking, and ascertain if you are eligible for our Community rate. 

 

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TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF USE

General Terms and Conditions

These Terms and Conditions sets out the requirements of Hirers in relation to code of conduct, permitted uses and responsibilities. A breach of these terms and conditions may result in a termination of the current and future bookings.

• As the space is a shared pace, the Hirer is required to observe cleanliness, safety, noise restrictions and mutual respect for Council staff, other artists and the public when using the space;
• The space is on a ‘as is’ basis and cannot be altered, surfaces painted or adapted in any way.
• Application for the community rate must be requested and approved prior to making an online booking. Bookings made without approval for the community rate are not eligible for a refund retrospectively for any difference in price incurred by the hirer.
• Original chalk and text markings on the brick walls left from use as an active Fire Station are considered part of the heritage fabric of the building and cannot be altered or removed.
• The hirer acknowledges the building is registered as an item of environmental heritage on the Ballina Shire Local Environmental Plan 2012, and accordingly, no structural alterations or additions may be made to the building, including drilling into the walls. In the event of any damage caused to the building or its fixtures or fittings by the Hirer or an invited guest of the Hirer, the Hirer shall immediately repair and make good in accordance with heritage management principles, any damage occasioned by the Hirer’s use of the workshop Area.
• The Hirer is not to leave any personal belongings, materials or artwork in any studio common areas; or store any personal items or belongings at Ignite Studios @ NRCG between bookings periods.
• The Hirer will maintain the workshop space and conduct activities in a professional manner, sustaining and improving the reputation of Ignite Studios to the satisfaction of Ballina Shire Council (BSC). Any conduct or activity that is detrimental to the reputation of the studio in the opinion of BSC may result in termination of the current and future bookings. BSC reserves the right to deny access to any Hirer for detrimental conduct.
• The available spaces are primarily for creative activities but can be utilised for other uses when availability permits.
• When vacating, the Hirer must leave the Workshop Area clean and tidy and any additional equipment packed up neatly in the corner of the space; all rubbish must be emptied into the external rubbish bins provided, tables wiped clean and any spills on floor swept and wiped clean at the conclusion of the hire period.
• The use of the Workshop Area is for artistic endeavours only and does not confer any right to exclusive occupation on any part of Ignite Studios.
• The Hirer is responsible for maintianing knowledge of and compliance with all current Work Place Health and Safety requirements arising for use of the workshop space including safe use of tools, noise levels, art materials, elimination of trip hazards, safe use of electricity.
• The Hirer must handle all furniture and equipment supplied by the Ignite Studios @ NRCG with care and not remove from the Studios or Grounds. All items must be returned to the original location at end of use. 
• The Hirer must report any breakage, loss or damage to the Studio or equipment to the Gallery Coordinator or nominated Gallery officer within 24 hours of the breakage or damage occurring. Any breakages or damage must be paid for by the Hirer in full.
• Cancellations must be made at least 8 days or more prior to the booking date to avoid a cancellation fee.
• The Hirer is responsible for managing all bookings, payments and promotions of their activity. The Gallery may at times be able to cross promote the activity through social media channels but this is at the discretion of the Gallery and not guaranteed in the terms and agreement.
• The Hirer must abide by ‘Hirer Obligations’ 1 through 15 as outlined in the Terms and Conditions of Use.

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HIRER OBLIGATIONS

1. Public Liability Insurance
It is the responsibility of the Hirer to hold a valid public liability insurance policy for the duration of the hire period in the amount of $20,000,000 and to indemnify Council against claims and demands arising out of personal or third party injury or damage to property arising out of the Hirer’s use of the hired space. The insurance policy must provide coverage for all activities undertaken onsite by the Hirer. Council reserves the right to request a copy of this Policy at any time.

Exceptions
Casual Hirers, including persons or groups of persons of this facility, may be covered by Council’s insurance where they are not operating as part of a sporting body, club, association, corporation or incorporated body if all activities are voluntary with no payment or income derived from the Hirer’s activities. Any persons conducting commercial activities and charging a fee for service and / or product must hold and maintain insurance as outlined above.

2. Disbursements
The following additional fees may be payable by the Hirer:

1. Any bank direct debit dishonour fees along with a fee by Ballina Shire Council of $45;
2. Replacement keys or failure to return a key will result in a fee of $50 being payable by the Hirer;
3. Additional hire fees for use of “The Engine Room” or “The Locker Room” should the use of the workshop space extend beyond the reserved time of the booking.
4. Costs to recover the costs incurred by Council for additional cleaning or damages associated with the use of the spaces.

3. Permitted uses
Meetings, small scale performances, events, pop-up exhibitions or shops, and various forms of creative industry including: painting, sculpture, textiles, photography, printmaking, design, digital works, ceramics, rehearsals and photo shoots.

Additional uses may be permitted at the discretion of the Gallery.

4. Restrictions on uses
Industrial or semi-industrial creative processes, unlicensed alcohol sales, use of solvents including low odour solvents, use of volatile compounds (eg, spray paints, turpentine and acetone), smoking is not permitted within Ignite Studios or anywhere on the outside premises, the use of incense or open flames are not permitted within Ignite Studios.

5. Art supplies and cleaning up
The Hirer is responsible for providing all art materials, equipment and consumables required for their activity, workshop or own personal use. Permitted materials include:

1. Odourless solvents are the only solvents permitted. Solvents must be properly transported, labelled and waste disposed of in the appropriate waste bin.
2. Only low volatile compounds may be used;
3. When cleaning up oil based products, solvents, varnishes, or other compounds must be placed in the receptacle provided and must never be put down the drain.
4. When cleaning up acrylic, leftover acrylic paint must be placed in the receptacle provided and must never be put down the drain.

6. Setting Up / Packing Up

1. The setting up and packing up of the hired space is the responsibility of the Hirer.
2. Any furniture or equipment must be returned to the original location at end of use before leaving. Any breakages or damage must be paid for by the Hirer.
3. Adequate time allowance for set-up and pack-up must be included within the booking so as not to run into another users booking time.
4. The Hirer is responsible for all damage caused by the placement or removal of displays or decorations.

7. Security
Locking and unlocking the facility is the sole responsibility of the Hirer.

Hirers will be provided with a key available for collection from the Gallery reception during normal operating days and hours. The key provides access to the workshop spaces only, via the red engine room door at the front of the building or the rear west door at the rear of the building.

It is the responsibility of the Hirer to advise the Gallery Staff at least one week prior to the booking if key for collection/return will be required outside of normal Gallery hours. The Gallery will then confirm the access code to collect/return the key from the external combination lock box.

The external combination lock box is located at the front, right side of the building directly under the power box.

The key must be returned immediately after the hire period to:

1. Gallery reception during normal hours of operation; or
2. External combination lock box outside of normal operating hours

Replacement keys or failure to return a key within a 24 hour period after use will result in a key replacement fee of $50 being payable by the Hirer.

Gallery operating hours: 10am – 4pm, Wednesday to Friday and 9.30am – 2.30pm on weekends and closed public holidays. Gallery Volunteers cannot organise/authorise key collection with hirers.

8. Health and Safety
To ensure that your booking runs as smoothly as possible, we would like to point out the following health and safety information. Make yourself familiar with your surroundings to ensure you are prepared in the event of an emergency.

1. A wall mounted first aid kit is located in the ‘Locker Room’ adjacent to the back exit door.
2. Water is available in the bathroom located in the back left of the ‘Locker Room’ or outside at the rear of the building in the wash up area.
3. An accessible toilet for users of both the ‘Locker Room’ and the ‘Engine Room’ is located at the rear of the ‘Locker Room’ space.
4. Take note of Fire Evacuation Plan displayed near the door in each room hired. Fire exit doors must be kept clear at all times. Familiarise yourself with the nearest fire extinguisher and all of your available emergency exits before commencing your booking. Make note of the assembly point and advise all of your participants of this information.
5. Emergency contact numbers are displayed in both the ‘Locker Room’ and ‘Engine Room’.
6. Respect other users and tenants within the building. Abide by the NO SMOKING policy inside all Ballina Shire Council buildings.
7. Do not tamper with any device or system designed for use in an emergency, such as fire alarms, fire extinguishers or fire hose reels.
8. Report any safety issues or identified hazards to the Gallery team before, or upon return of the keys.
9. Be responsible for the security of the building throughout the hire period and not attempt to enter any room other than the room and areas allocated.

9. Pricing Categories
Ballina Shire Council offers two cost categories for the hire of Northern Rivers Community Gallery and Ignite Studios @ NRCG. Application for the community rate must be requested and approved by the Gallery prior to making an online booking.

Use the following table to determine which cost will apply to your booking:

HIRE FEES

COMMUNITY	COMMERCIAL
Individual Artist or Artist Group	For profit business
Community Services	Commercial business
Community Groups	Government Department (if profit generating activity)
Not-for-Profit Groups
Schools and Tertiary Education Groups
Government Department (if non-profit generating activity)

APPLYING FOR COMMUNITY RATE:

Prior to making your booking email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. advising how you meet the ‘Community’ criteria. Eligibility for Community discount rates will not be applied without prior approval by Gallery staff and cannot be refunded retrospectively.

10. Fees

As outlined above

Note: Council reserves the right to change the conditions of hire, or the fees and charges. Please confirm prices and conditions at the time of booking.

11. Limits on Booking Periods
The minimum booking period duration is one hour. If your booking extends beyond a one hour block the full hour fee is payable i.e. a 1.5 hour booking would be charged for the full two hour period.
To ensure equitable access to the spaces for the whole community no more than 8 consecutive day or weekly bookings should be made via the online booking system. Hirers wishing to access the space longer must contact the Gallery directly by phone on 02 6681 6167 or email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to confirm availability. Failure to confirm bookings longer than the allowable period may result in the booking being cancelled by the Gallery.

12. Multiple Use / Regular Hire bookings
A regular booking is conditional on the understanding that from time to time, the user may be asked to alter the date, time or space provided to accommodate large events of significance to the community or to local community groups. Hirers will be provided with reasonable notice should the regular user be required to alter their booking for a large event. The Gallery team will work with the regular user to ensure the best possible alternative arrangements for their hire.

13. Cancellations

1. Cancellations can be made up to 8 days or more prior to the booking date without a cancellation fee.
2. Any bookings cancelled 7 days or less prior to the booking date will incur a cancellation fee equal to 50% of the total booking cost.
3. If notification is not received and the booking is not utilised, or notification is received on the day of the booking, no refund will be given and the full amount is payable.

Please note: Council reserves the right to:

1. Change the conditions of hire, or the fees and charges. Please confirm prices and conditions at the time of booking.
2. Deny access to any individual or organisation (its members and/or staff)
3. Terminate any agreement, with any individual or organisation, (its members and/or staff) at any time.
4. Direct the hirer to alter their booking to allow for ‘one off’ community events. Council would give suitable notice and assist to find an alternative time/space.
5. In the event of a natural disaster or other catastrophic event, where a space or building is no longer available for hire, Council is under no obligation to honour a booking or compensate for its loss.
6. In the event of a dispute or a difference arising as to the interpretation of conditions in this agreement, the decision of the General Manager of Ballina Shire Council shall be final.

14. Cleaning

1. Hirers are responsible for leaving the venue in a clean and tidy condition. In the event that additional cleaning is required, the Hirer will be liable for the associated costs.
2. Should additional cleaning be required, a cleaning fee will be charged $110.00 for cleaners to attend Monday to Friday (8am – 5pm), or $220.00 weeknights 5.30pm – 12.00am or weekends. (The costs associated with additional cleaning cover the costs incurred by Council.)
3. In order to recover costs for additional cleaning a credit card pre-authorisation may be processed prior to the commencement of bookings, in lieu of a cash bond.

15. Damages
Hirers are liable for any damage to Council venues during their booking. In order to recover costs for damages a credit card preauthorisation may be processed prior to the commencement of bookings, in lieu of a cash bond. The amount to be charged for damages is 100% of the assessed cost to repair the damages, as decided by the General Manager, or his or her nominated representative.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. Do I need to pay at the time of making my booking?
   Yes. All bookings must be paid for in advance to secure the hire. NRCG will issue you with an invoice to be paid via BPAY or EFT. 
2. Am I required to have my own insurance?
   Any persons conducting commercial activities and charging a fee for service and / or product must hold and maintain public liability insurance to a minimum value of $20 million for the duration of the hire period.
3. The fees on the booking system are commercial rates but I have checked the fee categories and believe I am eligible for a community rate. How do I access the community rate when making my booking?
   Prior to making your booking contact the Gallery by email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. In the email advise your Skedda User ID (if you have already set one up) and how you meet the ‘Community’ criteria. The Gallery will advise by return email if your request for the community rate is eligible and apply the community rate to your Skedda user account. Once approved you can then login to Skedda and make your booking and the community rate will automatically apply to all future bookings.
4. I didn’t apply for the community rate prior to making my booking. Am I eligible for a refund retrospectively?
   No. Application for the community rate must be requested and approved prior to making an online booking.
5. Is there a time limit to cancel my booking without being charged a cancelation fee?
   Cancellations can be made up to 8 days prior to your booking. Any booking cancelled 7 days or less prior to the booking date will incur a cancellation fee equal to 50% of the total booking cost.
6. What happens if I don’t show up and utilise the space for the day and time booked without cancellation or cancelled on the day?
   If notification is not received and the booking is not utilised, or notification is received on the day of the booking, no refund will be given and the full amount is payable.
7. How do I cancel my booking?
   Cancellations can be made via the online booking system up to 8 days prior to your booking. To cancel a booking 7 days or less prior to the booking date contact the Gallery by phone on 02 6681 6167 or email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to submit a request for cancellation.
8. How do I organise extra tables or chairs to be made available for my booking in addition to what is listed in the ‘standard inclusions’ of the Space details?
   Additional trestle tables, chairs or Victorian hanging systems are available on request. All requests for additional items can be requested in the ‘Notes’ section of the booking window or emailed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. no less than 8 days prior to the activity.
9. Are the workshop spaces air conditioned?
   No. There are windows and doors that can be opened for natural ventilation.
10. Are there tea/coffee facilities?
    No. A range of food and beverages are available for purchase at the Ballina Gallery Café in the adjacent building. This is a separate business and not included in the hire arrangement for the workshop spaces. Any catering arrangements with the Gallery Café are to be negotiated independently of the Gallery or Ignite Studios @ NRCG hire agreement.
11. Do I have to set the room up myself?
    Yes. Each of our spaces operates on a self-service model. The spaces will have the trestle tables and chairs setup as listed in the standard room inclusions. It is the responsibility of the hirer to setup and pack up any additional tables and chairs and leave the room setup as they found it. It is important to allow sufficient time within your booking period to allow for setup, pack up and to leave the hire area in a clean and presentable condition for the next hirer’s use.
12. I am planning a pop-up exhibition – will the Gallery mind the space for the duration of my booking?
    No. Each of our spaces operates on a self-service model. Hirers are responsible for sitting the space for the duration of their activity.
13. Will the Gallery assist with installing my pop-up exhibition or provide curatorial advice?
    No. Each of our spaces operates on a self-service model. Hirers are responsible for the planning, setup and pack down for all activities.
14. Will the Gallery take a commission for sales of any tickets or products as a result of my planned activity?
    No. 100 % of profits generated by sales for products or services of the Hirers activities
    is theirs.
15. I would like to bring in additional displays or furniture for my activity. Is this allowed?
    Yes. Keeping in mind safety of visitors is the responsibility of the Hirer and any personal equipment must be safe for a public space and no drilling can be done in any walls within the Ignite Studio @ NRCG spaces to secure furniture or equipment.
16. Am I required to clean up after my booking?
    Yes. We ask that you leave the room clean and all additional tables and chairs packed in the corner of the room. All rubbish is to be bagged and placed in the external rubbish bins at the eastern side of the building. Floors should be swept if necessary.
17. Will the Gallery team help promote my activity/workshop?
    The Gallery can assist with cross promotion through the Gallery social media platforms. The hirers are responsible for creating a FB Event or Website link and the Gallery can share this link via the Gallery’s Facebook or Instagram sites. Cross promotional web links must be provided to the Gallery at least 4 weeks prior to the event start date via email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . Weblinks provided less than 4 weeks prior cannot be supported with Gallery cross promotional activities.
18. Will the Gallery manage my event bookings and payments?
    No. Hirers are responsible for managing all aspects of bookings and payments for their event.

PRIVACY STATEMENT

 

Located in the heart of Ballina and housed in the historical former Ballina Fire Station, Ignite Studios is a community-engaged facility adjoining the Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG), comprising workshop spaces, low-cost creative studios, an Artist-in-Residence program with self-contained accommodation and studio, offices, and a ceramics studio launching in 2023.

Each year Ignite Studios delivers a vibrant public program of workshops, artist talks, and special events, and plays host to creative community events from pop up exhibitions, launches and film screenings, to workshops, meetings and creative forums.

Sign-up to our E-News, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram to hear the latest from Ignite Studios, or contact us to register your interest in getting involved!

Ignite Studios is an arts and cultural initiative of Ballina Shire Council and is supported by the NSW Government through infrastructure and program funding.

 

Image Credit: Ignite Studios  | Fantastical Photos Bright Sparks Workshop with Natalie Grono, 2020

IGNITE STUDIOS ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE PROGRAM

The Ignite Studios AiR program provides a single artist time and space to expand on their artistic practice, researching and experimenting with ideas for new work or new ways of working. Residencies can be between 2 – 12 weeks depending on the needs and practice of the resident and the particular nature of their proposed residency. The Ignite Studios AiR program is open to Australian and International arts professionals from a diverse spectrum of creative disciplines, both emerging and established, celebrating the importance of contemporary art voices with people and place. Creative disciplines could include, but are not limited to artists, designers, writers, performers, producers, directors, composers, curators and educators.

There is no stipend or living allowance attached to these residencies. Facilities available for use include a working studio and small bedsit residential space if required. Successful artists will be charged a subsidised studio and accomodation rental fee of $180 per week (including GST). Successful applicants will be responsible for all costs associated with the residency including travel costs, insurance, materials, and equipment and will be required to pay a refundable bond of $250 prior to occupancy to cover any costs associated with damage or extraordinary cleaning. 

Upon completion of the residency artists will be asked to provide images of their work, and a written testimonial about their experience for use by NRCG and Ballina Shire Council. 

Applications for the Open AiR program are accepted all year round.

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Applicants will be assessed against the following criteria:

• Artistic standing of applicant and artistic merit of the proposal
• Benefit of the residency to the applicant's professional development or the successful realisation of the proposed project

The panel will also consider:

• Suitability of the artform to the studio/facility
• Balance of emerging and established practitioners
• Availability of dates and length of residency required
• Artform and cultural diversity
  
  

TO APPLY

Download an application form from the link here: AiR Application form

Completed applications and support material should be submitted by email to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (Attn: Creative Programs Producer)

Or by post to:

Ignite AiR Program
Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG)
PO Box 450 Ballina NSW 2478
AUSTRALIA 

If you would like more information, or to discuss your application with our team, contact the Gallery on 02 6681 0530, or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Make sure to sign-up to our E-News and social media platforms, Facebook and Instagram to be kept up to date on all of our programs.