9 by 5 Exhibition

From 10 February to 2 May 2025, the Drum Theatre Foyer played host to the 17th annual 9 by 5 Exhibition. An inspired, contemporary reimagining of the historic 1889 Melbourne exhibition. With over 200 artists contributing works, this year's showcase was a vibrant celebration of creativity, community, and the power of small-scale art.

Visitors explored a rich variety of works in painting, photography, and mixed media, all confined to the iconic 9 x 5 inch format. 

A heartfelt congratulations went to our award winners:

• Ivan Dinsdale received Best in Show for Ferns at Sherbrooke, an acrylic work of remarkable depth and artistry.
• Noni Singh was honoured with the Community Connections Award for Dandenong Butter Factory, a textured palette knife painting that captured the spirit of place. This award was generously supported by Bendigo Community Bank, Dingley Village.
• Skye Petho was Highly Commended for We Come from Nature, a delicate and resonant work in watercolour and ink on recycled timber. This award was sponsored by Holiday Inn, Dandenong.
• Adrian Olguin was award the People’s Choice Award, voted by the public, for his surrealist piece Nearing Full Carpophore.

This year's exhibition was a resounding success, drawing audiences across weekdays and select Saturdays. It demonstrated how art, even at a modest scale, can carry profound emotional and visual impact. Every piece was available for purchase, offering audiences the rare opportunity to take home a miniature masterpiece.

Arts in Greater Dandenong once again proved its national standing with a dynamic and inclusive showcase that celebrated artistic diversity and community connection.