New Work Development Program

How we work with artists to create new work

Artist development sits at the heart of Parramatta Artists Studios. PAS works closely with studio artists and alumni to support the early stages of ambitious new projects, from initial research and experimentation through to exhibition, commissioning and public presentation. Artists are given time, resources, curatorial guidance and practical support to test ideas, expand their practice and develop work for new audiences. 

Each year, PAS partners with a variety of arts organisations, festivals and presentation partners to commission and present new work by PAS studio artists and alumni. These projects may take the form of gallery exhibitions, presentations at the annual Parramatta Lanes festival, offsite commissions, public programs or experimental outcomes developed in response to specific sites, communities and contexts. 

The program is informed by the requirements of each project, and may take the form of development labs, studio visits, conversations and planning sessions that bring artists into dialogue with curators, producers, writers and other art sector specialists. These gatherings support artists to refine concepts, consider audience and site relationships, navigate production questions and build the networks needed to realise new work in meaningful and sustainable ways. 

By supporting projects across exhibitions, commissions and public presentations, the New Work Development Program creates pathways for artists to translate studio-based research and experiementation into public outcomes. It reflects PAS’s commitment to long-term artistic development, sector connection and the production of contemporary art that is grounded in Western Sydney while engaging with broader local, national and international conversations.