Paid Opportunity

This stream supports Three (3x) professional artists in the Tweed Shire [Minjungbal-Bundjalung Nation]. Thuis is an opportunity to present new and experimental work. This may include performance, installation, conceptual, participatory, or non-commercial work. Successful applicants will receive a paid stipend for Research and Development with curatorial support to present their project.

What LAVA provides: Artist R&D Stipend, materials allowance, curatorial support, site visit, marketing and inclusion in festival program.

Key features:

• No fee to apply or exhibit.

• Works should be bold, innovative, and engage audiences.

• Artists must demonstrate feasibility within budget and timeline.

• $1,200.00 - Stipend for Research and Development

Suitable for:

• Installation, conceptual or experimental work

• Performance and live art

• Digital, video or sound-based work

• First Nations-led creative projects

• Place-responsive projects designed for Murwillumbah or surrounding villages

Self-organised and funded

This stream supports artists working in traditional and commercial practices (painting, sculpture, design, etc.). Applicants are encouraged to form groups, secure their own venues or join established hubs. There may be potential for individual artists to join a hub, group show, or other location depending on site availability. These exhibitions are primarily sales-focused and managed by the artist themselves.

What LAVA provides:

Program listing, marketing, festival signage, advice on venues, inclusion in the closing VIP party.

Key features on acceptance:

• Individual artists pay a participation fee of $50 pp (covering venue/program delivery costs).

• Artist Groups/Collectives/Organisations of more than 3 persons pay a fee of $150 (Open to group shows, group displays or open studios.)

• Proposed venues must be accessible, situated in the Tweed Shire  and open during festival dates (Saturday and Sunday)

Suitable for:

• Group exhibitions in community halls

• Solo or group painting/photography shows

• Open Art Studios

• Performance and dance

• design, craft and community art

• Youth-led projects

• Multimedia and Experimental Arts

LAVA is looking for venues in Murwillumbah and the Tweed Shire to contribute space and offerings to artists for LAVA 2026.

Venues may include but not limited to;

• Gallerys

• Local Businesses

• Shop Front Windows

• Vacant Shops

• Barns and Sheds

• Farms and Property