ARTIST INVITATION
Inviting Proposals: Artists & Creatives
Established in 1976, Castlemaine State Festival will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026 –a special moment to honour its incredible history, the people and places that have shaped it, and to continue expanding artistic and audience experiences in new ways.
We are thrilled to announce SURPRISE! SURPRISE! as the theme for the 2026 Castlemaine State Festival.
A celebratory vision imagined to mark this milestone, it has been designed to spark artistic inspiration and bring truly unique experiences for the delight of our audiences near and far. Surprise strikes wonder and amazement through the unexpected. It sparks curiosity, challenges our thinking, and lies at the heart of exceptional arts experiences.
Expressions of Interest
We’re now inviting Expressions of Interest from local artists and makers across all artforms to propose uniquely imagined festival works that respond to the Festival theme: SURPRISE! SURPRISE!
Apply via the form below. Closing date is Friday 14th March, 4:00pm.
Eligibility
The EoI is open to those living, working or connected with Mount Alexander Shire. Selected artists from outside the Shire will also be directly invited to participate as part of a program embracing local and global ideas and creative practice.