Make/Space is a flagship initiative of Arts Mid North Coast designed to increase access to affordable, fit-for-purpose creative spaces for artists, creative workers, and communities across the region. The program supports both temporary and permanent uses of underutilised spaces, embedding creativity into main streets, public spaces, and civic infrastructure.
We work in partnership with local Councils, Aboriginal organisations, State Government, and the private sector to identify and activate spaces for cultural use. These may include galleries, performance venues, studios, co-working spaces, offices, residencies, exhibitions, public art, and live events.
Make/Space is delivered across three key streams:
1. Retail & Main Street Activations
Creative use of vacant commercial properties for short-term cultural projects such as exhibitions, pop-ups, and public-facing activations that energise local centres and increase arts visibility.
2. Creative Infrastructure
Supporting the long-term development of dedicated creative spaces in collaboration with councils, Aboriginal organisations, and other regional partners.
3. Public Realm & Placemaking
Enabling creative interventions in public spaces through murals, civic installations, co-designed projects, and temporary or permanent public art that enhances local identity and encourages community participation.
APPLY NOW FOR MAKE/SPACE GOWINGS!
Thanks to our partners - Gowings Bros. Ltd, we are excited to announce Expressions of Interest are now open for Make/Space Gowings.
This initiative offers short-term creative activation opportunities in retail spaces owned by Gowings across Coffs Harbour, Kempsey, and Port Macquarie.
Designed to support local artists and makers, Make/Space encourages experimental exhibitions, interactive workshops, and engaging studio spaces that bring art to life in unexpected places.
What’s on Offer:
Selected creatives will be granted access to high-visibility locations to:
- Showcase and sell their work
- Host public workshops or demonstrations
- Develop and test new ideas in a real-world setting
- Each activation runs for up to two weeks and is:
- Artist-led and owned – you’re in full creative control
- Flexible – solo or shared activations welcome
- Affordable – $100/week covers electricity and admin support
What’s Included:
Arts Mid North Coast will provide:
- Promotion through AMNC marketing channels
- Professional advice on curation and merchandising
- Liaison with Gowing Bros. Ltd to coordinate logistics
Who Can Apply:
To participate, you’ll need:
- A current ABN
- Public Liability Insurance
- A strong creative concept that engages community or activates public space
Spaces will be allocated through an EOI process.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Have more questions? Contact:
Skye Petho
Programs and Partnerships Manager
programs@artsmidnorthcoast.org
Let’s activate spaces, spark creativity, and connect communities – one pop-up at a time.