Executive Summary

Strategic Plan

2022 - 2027

Phillip Island Contemporary Exhibition Space Inc. (PICES)

is a vibrant, volunteer-led, not-for-profit organisation based on Phillip Island, Victoria. It brings together a multi-skilled and dedicated group of artists and art supporters committed to delivering a diverse and engaging program of contemporary art exhibitions and events for the Bass Coast community and beyond.

PICES was established in 2019 following the closure of the Saraghi Gallery in Cowes, responding to the need for an accessible and community-focused exhibition space for contemporary art.

Since its inception, PICES has built strong relationships with artists, community groups, local businesses, galleries

and tourism organisations, working collaboratively to support and promote contemporary art across the region.

A key partnership with Bass Coast Shire Council has enabled PICES to curate and deliver an evolving exhibition program

at Berninneit Gallery in Cowes.

PICES plays a unique role within the regional arts and cultural landscape.

It creates opportunities for artists to exhibit in professionally curated, high-quality exhibitions,

while contributing to the cultural and tourism environment of Phillip Island and the wider Bass Coast region.

Through initiatives including Pop-Up Exhibitions, the Summer Exhibition Series (Small Works, Contempora 1 and 2),

Artist Insight Forums and collaborative projects, PICES continues to foster creativity, connection and community engagement.

The PICES Strategic Plan 2022–2027 outlines a clear vision and framework for sustainable growth, with a focus on supporting

a thriving, inclusive and diverse artistic community.

Over the next five years, PICES aims to expand and diversify its programs, strengthening its role as a leading contemporary arts organisation in the region.

Vision

To contribute to a thriving, inclusive and diverse artistic community by presenting contemporary art in Bass Coast and fostering connections across the wider region.

Purpose

To provide accessible, regular and affordable opportunities for contemporary artists to exhibit in quality art spaces

and venues.

To contribute to the development of a strong regional identity — one that is recognised for its commitment to the arts

and valued as a cultural and arts tourism destination.

To support the integration of arts and cultural tourism as a key contributor to the region’s broader tourism strategy

and economic development.

To create opportunities for cultural learning and engagement through exposure to contemporary art — fostering appreciation, understanding and meaningful conversation.

To contribute to a vibrant and healthy cultural environment that inspires creativity, enriches experience and builds community awareness.

PICES recognises that arts and culture are central to healthy, thriving and connected communities, and that contemporary art plays an important role in encouraging engagement through creation, exchange of ideas

and the exploration of new perspectives.

A commitment to diversity, inclusion and environmental sustainability underpins our practice and supports the continued growth of an open, responsive and evolving arts community.

Excellence — striving for high standards in all that we do

Transparency — open, clear and accountable in our actions

Honesty — acting with integrity and authenticity

Responsiveness — listening, adapting and engaging thoughtfully

Innovation — embracing new ideas and creative approaches

Commitment — dedicated to supporting artists and our community

Generosity of spirit — fostering kindness, respect and collaboration

Courage — being open to change and willing to evolve

Diversity and inclusion — valuing and welcoming a broad range of voices, perspectives and experiences

Values

Beliefs

Arts and culture are central to healthy, thriving and connected communities.
Contemporary art plays a vital role in fostering engagement — through creation, exposure, conversation, exchange of ideas and a willingness to challenge perspectives.
A commitment to diversity and inclusion strengthens the arts, creating a vibrant and evolving community that welcomes new ideas, voices and experiences.
Environmental sustainability is an essential consideration in our practice and future development.

Goals

Membership

Engaged

Valued

Diversified

PICES values the work and support of its members and is always looking for ways to grow its membership and provide its members with satisfying involvement and rewarding opportunities and experiences

Organisation

Operational

Strengthened

Sustainable

PICES is committed to ongoing improvement and evolution, supporting its members, volunteers and stakeholders while building a sustainable and resilient future as a volunteer-led organisation.

Regional Arts identity

Expanded

Developed

Recognised

PICES is dedicated to facilitating a thriving arts culture on Phillip Island and across Bass Coast to deliver a

high profile calendar of art events for the region each year

Contemporary Arts

Identified

Enabled

Facilitated

PICES actively activates non-traditional art spaces, creating dynamic environments that showcase contemporary art in all its diversity and connect artists with new audiences.