Outer Space

Outer Space is a not-for-profit contemporary arts organisation in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane, focused on supporting emerging, early-career and mid-career artists and arts workers. Its programme brings together exhibitions, events and public programs, with a stated commitment to critically engaged creative practice and a professional environment where artists can develop ambitious work. During exhibitions, the gallery is open Wednesday to Saturday, 10am–5pm.

The organisation’s exhibition history and current programme reflect a broad interest in experimental and socially engaged contemporary art. Recent and listed projects include *Symbiotic Marathon*, *Ignota*, *Mas{a/i}r: The Map of Nearness* and *Nothing to Write Home About*, the latter presenting work by Munimba-ja Blak Creatives Collective and curated by Libby Harward. Public programming has included a Symbiotic Marathon Circuit Training session with Merinda Davies and Guy Ritani, showing that Outer Space’s offer extends beyond viewing exhibitions to events and artist-led engagement.

Outer Space began in 2016, when Llewellyn Millhouse and Caity Reynolds turned their postgraduate studios into a one-night exhibition space. The following year, a Brisbane City Council Creative Hub initiative supported the conversion of a warehouse into a creative complex with two galleries, five studios and community space. Since that initiative ended in 2020, Outer Space has developed into a small contemporary arts organisation operating across three Fortitude Valley spaces: a gallery and separate office at the Judith Wright Arts Centre, supported by Arts Queensland, along with six artist studios in Chinatown.

The organisation welcomes people already involved in the arts as well as those who are simply curious, making it a useful stop for solo gallery visits, art-focused outings and anyone wanting to connect with Brisbane’s independent contemporary arts community. Its stated values — integrity, experimentation, inclusion, quality and collaboration — provide a clear guide to the kind of work and professional culture it aims to foster. Visitors should check the current exhibition or event details before going, as the gallery’s public hours are tied to exhibition periods.