Fostering community through art and events.
We create participatory events that give people the opportunity to create, form connections, and explore new possibilities.
Community noticeboard
Important and current information is posted here as it comes to hand.
- We are currently recruiting for a range of different roles – Sandfolk, Fire Safety crew, a Theme Camp Coordinator and some IT and web design support. If you are interested in any of these roles, please email crew@commonarts.org.au
- Underland is finally on Instagram! Check us out, follow us, and give us a ‘Like’!
- On 3 April 2025 at 8pm we will host our annual ‘Getting involved in Underland‘ session. If you are interested in contributing to the event this year, but aren’t sure how, this is the session for you!
- We are currently calling out for themes for Underland 2026 (and beyond). The theme for 2025 is ‘Pop!’ but we want to hear from our community as to their ideas for future years. If you’ve got some theme ideas in mind, please fill out this form before 21 April 2025.
- Large art grants are now open! These are valued between $1,000 and $2,500. Applications will close on 25 April 2025, with notifications on 7 May. Please read the guidelines and fill out the registration form! Any questions can be sent to artery@commonarts.org.au
- Underland 2025 will happen from 25 – 29 September! The theme is ‘Pop!’ Check out our Facebook page for more information!
Our events
Underland
Inspired by Burning Man, Underland is a festival that is put on by its participants. It is a place to explore your creativity, and to have a great time doing it. Bring whatever fuels your imagination – art, performance, talks, workshop, flame effects, your own party, or something completely different. We draw the lines, you colour it in.
To find our more, check out our FAQs.
Member gatherings
From time-to-time, we put on community events for our members – sometimes on our own, sometimes in collaboration with our friends at Melburners. Previous events have included pub nights, picnics, community markets, and camp outs.
Become a member
Join us to get involved!
FAQ
When is the next Underland?
Underland 2025 will be held from 25 – 29 September.
Where is the next Underland?
Underland is held 2.5 hours west of Melbourne. Directions are provided to members via email and Slack shortly before the event.
How big is Underland?
In 2025, Underland is capped at 1,000 members.
How do I get tickets to Underland?
You’ll first have to join as a member of Common Arts Victoria. Ticketing details are emailed to members a few months before the event.
I've got a great idea for Underland, or would like to volunteer. How do I make that happen?
First, become a member. Once you have done so, send us an email describing what you’d like to do and we can put you in touch with the right people.
What should I bring to Underland?
You should bring anything you feel you need to survive and thrive in the bush for 5 days. Shelter, water, and food are a bare minimum (though we do supply toilets). You should also bring whatever fuels your imagination or would make a great experience for other people! This could be as simple as some tasty treats to give out or as complex as an elaborate art project! A few weeks before the event we provide a survival guide to participants. This has more detailed information.
Can I bring a sound system to Underland?
Yes! Anyone bringing a sound system needs to read and agree to our sound policy.
Can I bring an art car to Underland?
Yes! Please email us first so we can ensure your vehicle is safe!
How old is Underland?
2024 will be the third Underland.
How do I become a CAV member?
Apply here. From May to October we aim to approve applications fortnightly. Outside of these months it may be a bit slower as this is our off season.
Does CAV provide grants?
Yes! We provide a range of different grants to people who want to bring art and other creative work to Underland. Details will be provided via email, Slack, and our Facebook page a few months before the event. Our friends at Melburners also provide grants.
Is CAV on social media?
Yes! We have a Facebook page where we regularly post updates and latest news. We also have an Instagram page for all our glorious photos and a Slack workspace for members who need to get s*&! done. Important announcements are also made by email.
Why do I need to become a CAV member to come to Underland?
We don’t run commercial events and are instead focused on participation and community-building. Becoming a member is a way to recognise that you are joining a community, not just coming to an event.
I'm not sure if I'm a CAV member or not. How can I find out?
Please contact us and our Secretary will let you know.
Is there a fee to become a CAV member?
There is no membership fee.
Can I get a refund on my Underland ticket?
We generally don’t provide refunds for change in circumstances but we are happy to facilitate a ticket transfer to another member. Please email our ticketing team.
When does my CAV membership end?
Memberships do not end automatically. You may end your membership by emailing us to tell us you no longer want to be a member.
I'm a CAV member but I'm not getting emails from you. Why is that?
We send the bulk of our important communications via email. Please ensure that feedback@commonarts.org.au and tickets@commonarts.org.au are on your ‘safe senders’ list or in your contacts. Please also check your spam folder (and the ‘Promotions’ inbox if you are a Gmail user). If none of these work, please contact us. We also cross-post important email announcements to Slack and Facebook.
I'm a CAV member. How can I access the Committee meeting minutes?
Minutes are posted to our Slack channel after each Committee meeting. Members can also contact us for a copy.