The Art Gallery of Ballarat is the oldest and largest regional art gallery in Australia. Established in 1884 as the Ballarat Fine Art Gallery by the citizens of Ballarat, both the building and part of its collection is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register and by the National Trust of Victoria.

Rapidly changing demographics, significant government investment in the creative economy, and a chance to sit at the heart of an integrated regional creative hub provided a foundation for new strategic thinking and trajectory.

Art Gallery of Ballarat Director, Louise Tegart approached Ellis Jones to guide the gallery and its leaders through the facilitation and co-creation of a new three-year strategic plan.

We delivered a design-led, creative process that included:

• Significant desktop research into public planning and investment history and trends and forces for change
• Staff engagement program
• Through board workshopping, co-design of a three-year strategic roadmap with the three principal governing bodies of the gallery.
• Design and development of a strategic plan that evoked the creative spirit and significant heritage of the gallery.

 

Findings from research and design informed the development of a new three-year strategic plan outlining purpose, mission and forces for change.

The strategy set outs key priority areas across audience engagement and access, partnerships and future proofing.

It was ratified by Board and endorsed by stakeholders and drew praise from sector peers.

It is a  key reference document as the gallery navigates a period of significant change focused on sustainability, innovation and increased community access.

Following the project an Ellis Jones director was appointed to the Art Gallery of Ballarat board.