Studios Frequently Asked Questions
This area of Victoria was logged in the 1920-1930's. Due to it's dry rocky nature it was then left to regenerate. With 70 years+ regeneration, this area is unique in that it is a natural habitat containing many species of endangered flora and fauna.The nearest services, town and public transport are located approximately 4 kilometres away at Hurstbridge.
Life drawing is available on Tuesday nights. It is up to the individual artists to socialize or not to socialize. The Open Studios program offers the opportunity for artists in residence to exhibit collectively.
Residencies are usually for a period of twelve months to allow for the experience of a full cycle of seasons but shorter residencies are available.
The Dunmoochin Foundation is an Arts and Environment based Foundation, located in two hundred acres of bushland approximately thirty-five kilometres north east of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. It is administered by a voluntary board that has a high level of arts appreciation and knowledge.
The foundation has a voluntary board of directors. The objectives of the Dunmoochin Foundation are:
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To protect and foster the natural environment of an area of bushland on the edge of Melbourne's urban sprawl.
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To provide and maintain residential spaces, studios and community art facilities.
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To give Australian and overseas artists, environmentalists and researchers in related fields the opportunity of working in and experiencing a unique area of Australia.
The Dunmoochin property is protected by conservation covenants through Trust for Nature as are the properties surrounding Dunmoochin. These covenants protect the natural environment by preventing undesirable activities such as, grazing, further subdivision or dwellings, firewood collection or the keeping of domestic pets.
Directors of the Dunmoochin Foundation review applications for residency shortly before studios / residences become available.
Successful applicants will be notified by the Dunmoochin Foundation by e-mail or by surface mail. Unsuccessful applications will be held for twelve months. Unsuccessful applicants will be notified by e-mail or surface mail if another studio / residency becomes available.
We have a full Four seasons, often hot in summer and cool in winter. No snow and the area is not known for any extreme weather conditions.
The Dunmoochin Foundation is a non-profit organisation and the rentals are a major means of supporting a maintenance program for the buildings and grounds.
The studios and residential spaces have been creatively structured by Clifton Pugh and friends using recycled as well as new materials and mud bricks. They have been built with a sense of harmony with the surrounding natural environment. Painted walls and sculptured figures are featured within the main courtyard. All residential spaces have electricity, telephone, bottled gas, tank water and are comfortably / basically furnished and equipped. There is also a pool and a croquet area available for use by residents.
The bushland in the Dunmoochin area is fairly dry and open with an annual rainfall of approximately 690mm. The land is basically a ridge system, which affords some beautiful views and a varying ecosystem. Quartz and clay based soils, eucalypt trees, over fifty species of orchids in season, wild kangaroos and a diverse bird life are just a few aspects of this area that make it so appealing.
Yes, successful applicants are required to sign a Residential Tenancy Lease Agreement.
