Our West End Grad Show ‘Bloom’ is fast approaching!

Feb 12 – Feb 24

Opening Reception Feb 12, 5-7pm

Each year, Bloom offers a vital moment to experience and appreciate the vision of the next generation of artists and a chance to encounter emerging voices as they shape, challenge, and expand contemporary practice.

The exhibition highlights the excitement, energy and fresh influence that only new graduates can bring, offering audiences an early glimpse into the artists who will help define the future of Australian art.

This year’s show features graduates from VCA, RMIT, and Monash University, bringing together a dynamic cross-section of emerging talent. Bloom creates an important platform for these young artists to gain exposure, share their ideas and introduce their practices to collectors, curators, and the broader community.

Alongside the exhibition, a prize will be announced at the opening, awarding two graduate artists the opportunity for 12 months of representation within the West End Art Space stable — a significant step in supporting their artistic careers and nurturing growth.

We are delighted to welcome our guest judge, Anna Gowers, who will join us at the opening celebration to present our postgraduate artists.

Anna Gowers is the founder of Art Matters, an independent venture exploring new ways to connect people with art, champion artists, and deepen creative conversations. Drawing on a career spanning design, education, consulting, and strategy, Anna helps art lovers engage with contemporary art in a spirit of curiosity, confidence, and joy.

After completing a Bachelor of Design (Graphic Design) at Swinburne University, Anna began her career in design and later established her own branding practice. She went on to teach Honours at Swinburne’s National School of Design, and has continued her creative practice through a range of projects, including developing a stationery brand, and supporting artists to position and exhibit their work.

Over the past 15 years, Anna has worked as an account and strategy director within leading Melbourne design studios, collaborating with corporates, not-for-profits, and cultural institutions. Throughout her career, she has remained a committed mentor and advocate for emerging designers and artists.

Anna’s practice is shaped by deep curiosity, a sense of service, and a belief in art as a powerful catalyst for insight, connection, and transformation. Alongside its public programs, Art Matters offers a private advisory service for collectors seeking guidance, perspective, and importantly, enjoyment in building meaningful collections.

Through Art Matters, Anna brings together her love of art, storytelling, and community, with a focus on discovery, dialogue, and ‘art evangelism’. She continues her own creative practice alongside this work, drawing inspiration from the coastlines of Point Lonsdale, the cultural life of Melbourne, and art centres around the world.

Follow Art Matters at https://www.instagram.com/art__matters__/

This year, we proudly present the artwork for show and sale by the following 2025 graduate artists :

Annabelle Gallon, Alexi Cordes, Hartley Snape, Jack Snow-Viener, Journey Kelly, Mila Medic, Soyo Paek and Virginia Guest.

We look forward to welcoming you in February to celebrate this year’s remarkable group as they bloom into the contemporary art world.