9X5 Exhibition

The original iconic Impressionist Exhibition in 1889 was organised and featured paintings by VAS artists Arthur Streeton, Tom Roberts and Charles Conder. It opened on 17 August 1889 at Buxton's Rooms on Swanston Street and featured 183 works.

Roberts, Conder and Streeton named the 9x5 Impressionist Exhibition, as the majority of the works were painted on nine-by-five-inch wooden boards (many of which were cigar box lids). The small size meant the paintings could be priced to make them accessible to the general public. Over 80 paintings were sold during the exhibition. 

A critical press review of the exhibition was welcomed by the artists who promptly put it on the front door of the gallery attracting even more of a crowd who were keen to see the works which had generated so much interest. 

Paying homage to this important part of Victorian art history, artists from across Victoria have submitted their 9x5 paintings in many different mediums and styles for our 2023 9x5 Exhibition.

In 2024 the following prizes will be awarded:

• First Prize $1,000
• Best Traditional Work (Bob Senior Award): $500
• Second Prize: $500
• Third Prize $300
• Two Young Artist Prizes for $200 each (for artists of 25 and younger)