Monday 10 February – Friday 2 May 2025
Drum Theatre Foyer
Open Monday - Friday, 10am - 4pm
Select Saturdays Openings: 8 March, 22 March and 5 April, 10.30am-2.30pm
Discover the creativity of over 200 artists at the 9 by 5 Exhibition, returning for its 17th year in 2025.
This modern take on the iconic 1889 Melbourne exhibition reimagines the tradition of creating art on nine by five-inch cigar box lids, as pioneered by Australian artists Tom Roberts, Charles Conder, Arthur Streeton, and Frederick McCubbin.
Arts in Greater Dandenong’s nationally celebrated interpretation showcases the incredible diversity of the arts community, demonstrating how small-scale works can deliver a profound impact.
Featuring a vibrant mix of painting, photography, and more, this exhibition invites artists of all experience levels to present their unique vision, each confined to the compact dimensions of 9 x 5 inches (22.86cm x 12.7cm).
With every piece available for purchase, it’s a rare opportunity to own a miniature masterpiece. Come celebrate the boundless creativity that brings each brushstroke and captured moment to life.
9 by 5 Opening Event
You are invited to join us for the exhibition opening on Saturday 15 February from 3pm - 5pm at the Drum Theatre Foyer.
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9 by 5 artworks in 2020 -
9 by 5 artwork in 2023 -
9 by 5 artwork in 2023 -
9 by 5 artworks in 2020 -
9 by 5 artwork in 2023 -
9 by 5 artwork in 2023
Opening Hours
| Weekday | Time slot | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Monday - Friday: | 10:00 am-4:00 pm | |
| Saturday - Sunday: | Closed |
Artwork size restrictions
Artwork MUST measure 9 x 5 inches (22.8cm x 12.7cm).
Artwork requiring framing must not exceed 12 x 8 inches (30.4cm x 20.3cm)
3 Dimensional artwork will not be accepted
*need help finding a canvas, search 'Signature single thick canvas 9 x 5 in'.
Who can enter?
Artists must be based in Australia. Overseas submissions will not be accepted.
Is there an entry fee?
No. Entry into the 9 by 5 exhibition in 2025 is free.
When do registrations close?
Registrations close Sunday 15 December 2024, 11.59pm or until exhibition capacity has been reached.
Are there prizes?
The following prizes will be awarded:
- Best in Show - $1000: artwork of high artistic merit as assessed by the judging panel.
- Community Connections - $500 (sponsored by Community Bank Dingley Village): artwork reflecting the Greater Dandenong community.
- Highly Commended - $250 (sponsored by Holiday Inn, Dandenong): notable mention of artwork of high artistic merit.
- People’s Choice - $500: People's choice winner will be announced on Monday 7 April via social media and contacted directly.
All prize winners will receive an annual membership to the Drum Theatre and ACMI
When does the artwork need to be delivered?
Deliver to Drum Theatre. Delivery period, Monday 6 January - Friday 17 January 2025 (10am-4pm, Monday - Friday), and Saturday 18 January 2pm-4pm.
When can the artwork be pickup or returned?
Unsold artworks can be collected from Drum Theatre, Tuesday 6 - Friday 23 May 2025, 10am-4pm.
If artworks are unable to be collected in person during the above dates, please provide a prepaid return envelope.
When is the opening event?
Drum Foyer, Saturday 15 February 2025, 3pm - 5pm
Video tutorials to help prepare for the exhibition
QuickArts X CreativeRISE have created a number of tutorials that provide essential tips to help prepare for the 9 by 5 Exhibition.
QuickArts X CreativeRISE - Canvas and Linen
QuickArts X CreativeRISE - Painting on Wood Panels
Terms and Conditions
Monday 10 February, 10:00am
Tuesday 11 February, 10:00am
Wednesday 12 February, 10:00am
Thursday 13 February, 10:00am
Friday 14 February, 10:00am
Saturday 15 February, 3:00pm
Monday 17 February, 10:00am
Tuesday 18 February, 10:00am
