TCB Art Inc.

Can a gallery truly be a platform for artistic freedom? At TCB Art Inc. in Melbourne, the answer is a resounding yes. TCB Art Inc. stands as a testament to the power of artist-run spaces. It’s a place where emerging and established artists can explore, experiment, and take risks, free from the constraints of commercial pressures. TCB Art Inc. was founded in 1998 by artists Blair Trethowan, Sharon Goodwin, and Thomas Deverall. They recognized a need for a non-commercial, non-profit space in Melbourne’s CBD. They wanted a space to showcase young and emerging artists to a wider audience. For over two decades, TCB Art Inc. has remained a vibrant, volunteer-run project. It has provided a platform for over 700 artists from Australia, the Asia-Pacific region, and internationally. Many artists presented their first solo exhibitions at TCB Art Inc., marking a significant milestone in their careers. TCB Art Inc.’s journey includes several location changes. In 2001, it moved from the Port Phillip Arcade to Waratah Place in Chinatown, sharing the space with Uplands Gallery. This unique partnership fostered a relationship between commercial and non-commercial art spaces. In 2006, TCB Art Inc. occupied the entire Waratah Place site. This expansion allowed for larger-scale exhibitions and the ability to host two exhibitions simultaneously. A volunteer exhibition sitter program was also initiated in the mid-2010s. In 2018, TCB Art Inc. found a new home on Wilkinson Street in Brunswick. This wheelchair-accessible building houses two exhibition spaces and eight independent studios. TCB Art Inc.’s commitment to supporting emerging artists and curators has remained constant despite the moves. The gallery is run by a collective of volunteer artists, curators, writers, and arts administrators. TCB Art Inc. prioritizes environmentally sustainable practices. It thrives on the support of past members and supporters. The gallery acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land, the Kulin Nations, and pays respect to their Elders past, present, and emerging. TCB Art Inc. is more than just a gallery. It is a community. It is a testament to the vision of its founders and the dedication of its volunteers. It is a place where art flourishes, and artists find their voice.