RMIT Artothek Program Opens for Second Round

RMIT Artothek Program Opens for Second Round

RMIT Culture is pleased to announce the mid-year intake for its Artothek program, Australia's first dedicated university art lending library.

Launched in 2024, this pioneering initiative allows RMIT students to borrow and enjoy artworks in their homes, enhancing their living spaces and enriching their university experience.  

The Artothek Collection, initiated in 2020, was made possible by the generous donation of approximately 250 works on paper from German-based academic and RMIT Adjunct Professor of Fine Art, Dr. Christoph Dahlhausen. Dr. Dahlhausen's vision was inspired by the long-standing tradition of Artotheks in Germany, which have been promoting art appreciation since the late 1960s.  

Experiencing art is close to reading. Having an artwork at home opens up the possibility to 'read' slow and more sustainably. I am deeply honored that RMIT has accepted my donation to start the very first Artothek in Australia. My hope is that the RMIT Artothek will continue to grow, leading the way while bringing joy and enriching experiences to all," Dr. Dahlhausen said.  

RMIT is an ideal host for this unique program, given the university's strong reputation for art and design and its commitment to student wellbeing.  

three smiling students holding up framed artworks from the artothek collection Students pose with their loaned Artothek works. Photo by Nick Devlin.

Students who have participated in the Artothek program have shared positive feedback about their experiences. Jidapha Wannalee, an RMIT student, highlighted the benefits: "The Artothek program has meant a lot to me this year. It allows RMIT students to enjoy arts at home, offering numerous benefits like reducing stress, stimulating creativity, and fostering connections with others. It has significantly enhanced the ambience in my space and improved my wellbeing."  

Similarly, Aletta De Jong, another RMIT student, shared her gratitude: "As an interstate student, having an artwork in my home would be difficult to achieve, but the Artothek program has made it accessible. Seeing an artwork every day in my home is a different experience than viewing it in a gallery, and I am grateful to experience it."  

Elizabeth Marsden, Manager of Cultural Collections at RMIT, underscored the historical and cultural significance of the university's art collection: "The University art collection reflects the history of RMIT from its foundation in 1887 to the present day and includes some of Australia's most eminent artists."  

Expressions of interest for the mid-year intake are now open and will close at COB on Monday 1 July, 2024. 

The program is exclusively available to current RMIT students, with an annual access cost of $40. Loan periods are aligned with the academic calendar with two loan rounds annually for accepted participants. Spaces for the 2024 program are limited, with participants selected on a first-come first-served basis.

24 May 2024

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24 May 2024

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