Common Arts Victoria logo

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.

  • Underland tickets are now on sale! You will need to use the link below to first become a member. Once your membership is approved you will then receive a separate email with a link to purchase one adult ticket.
  • We are currently recruiting for a Gate Lead, Sanctuary Lead, Greeters Lead, and Crew Cook. We are also looking for a Sandman Lead (Position description being drafted). Please email crew@commonarts.org.au to express interest or request further info.
  • If you are interested in volunteering for Underland 2024, please fill out our expression of interest form and we will get in touch ASAP.
  • Centre Camp is now accepting submissions here for workshops, talks, or whatever you feel might bring joy to the space!
  • Underland 2024 will happen from 26 – 30 September 2024!

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.

Building plague doct
Photo and artist: Glenn todd
Building Plague Doctor
Plague doctor
Photo and artist: Glenn todd
Plague Doctor

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Building effimu
Photo: Danae Swinburne | Artist: Effigy crew
Building Effimu
Effimu looks over the paddock
Photo: Danae Swinburne | Artist: Effigy crew
Effimu looks over the paddock
Group photo 1
Photo: Kimberley Kifun
Photo: Marina | artists: callan morgan; dan engelman
Group photo 2
Photo: Kimberley Kifun
Photo: Marina | artists: callan morgan; dan engelman
Group photo 3
Photo: Kimberley Kifun
Photo: Marina | artists: callan morgan; dan engelman
UKI at sunset
Photo: Marina Dilda | artist: Make Mob | DJ: Dengelman
UKI at sunset
Photo: Marina | artists: callan morgan; dan engelman
DJs at the silent disco
Photo: kimberley kifun | DJs: Marty Bortz, Jason Pond, Dave Weir
DJs at the silent disco
Photo: Marina | artists: callan morgan; dan engelman
Rain moth
Photo: Stevan Nam Lay | artist: axel chesney
Rain moth
Photo: Marina | artists: callan morgan; dan engelman
Burning Effimu
Photo: Corinne Wood | Artist: Effigy crew
Burning Effimu
Temple at night
Photo: Miss Unicorn | artists: Effigy crew
Temple at night
Photo: Marina | artists: callan morgan; dan engelman
Burning rain moth
Photo: Michael ellis | artists: Effigy crew
Burning rain moth
Photo: Marina | artists: callan morgan; dan engelman
Temple burn
Photo: Michael ellis | artist: temple crew
Temple burn
Photo: Marina | artists: callan morgan; dan engelman
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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, and camp outs.

Become a member

Join us to get involved!

FAQ

When is the next Underland?

Underland 2024 will be held from 26 – 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 2024, Underland will host 750 of our 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 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. 

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. 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.

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.