fold projects is an artist run studio and project space in Fyshwick, Canberra on Ngunnawal and Ngambri Country founded in 2026 by Mel Howe and Beth O’Connor. The Biennial is thrilled to be partnering with fold projects this year, so Creative Producer Tegan Garnett sat down with the founders to get acquainted.
Founders Beth and Mel on-site at fold projects.
TG: Hello Mel and Beth! Tell us about the idea behind fold? And where did the name come from?
FP: We started fold projects to create more studio spaces for the arts community in Canberra and to also have a place for public programming. We found an ideal space in the heart of Fyshwick at the end of last year, which accommodates 8 shared artist studios and a project space for exhibitions, screenings, workshops and events.
We wanted our name to be something open that could encompass different meanings, reflecting the variety of artists and activities at fold. There’s a nice duality to the word fold. To be ‘in the fold’ is to be in a group of like minded people. Our aim is to foster a supportive community of artists where ideas can be exchanged and developed.
TG: Are there any ARI’s, project spaces or galleries that have inspired this project for you?
FP: We’re inspired by sydenham international, an experimental art space in Sydney on Gadigal Country run by Consuelo Cavaniglia and Brendan Van Hek, who are endlessly supportive of the arts community in Sydney and beyond. Their programming is varied and incredibly interesting, broadening ideas of what art is and can be, especially within the context of public exhibition.
Composite: Moving Image Agency & Media Bank, is an artist-run space in Naarm/Melbourne directed by Channon Goodwin. Composite specifically supports moving image practices, which has really pushed our understanding of video and film.
Here in Canberra, Civic Art Bureau is an exciting contemporary gallery run by Adam Bell, with an exhibition program showcasing the diversity of the Canberra arts community. The window space is always interesting to check out, particularly the way it activates the street.
TG: Can you tell us your thoughts on Canberra’s art scene at the moment?
FP: Canberra has a very strong and supportive arts community, which we feel lucky to be part of. With both of us having lived in Sydney and Melbourne respectively, we realise how unique Canberra is. There is a breadth of creative talent that exists here which is often overlooked. fold aims to support and add to Canberra’s existing art scene, through our studios as well as our exhibition and events programming.
TG: Alright, what is your favourite spot in the Fyshwick neighbourhood for sustenance?
FP: Flute Bakery is our go to for delicious pastries and cakes, and Redbrick is great for coffee.
For mental sustenance we recommend Bookrunner, who’ve just opened up at Dairy Road, around the corner from Capital Brewing Co. They have an incredible collection of books for sale, which makes it hard to leave empty handed.
Blochaus, also at Dairy Road, is ideal for a social or solo workout (Mel’s recommendation as you couldn’t pay Beth to go climbing).
TG: And lastly, what are you looking forward to about this years’ Canberra Art Biennial?
FP: We’re really looking forward to being a part of it! The programming for the Canberra Art Biennial is always inspiring. The 2024 edition had a variety of work spread across the city, in galleries and in public places you wouldn’t usually come across art. fold projects have a number of things planned for the Biennial, which will bring together artist run initiatives and creative communities in and outside of Australia. More to come soon!
fold projects will be hosting their launch event on Friday 22 May, from 6-8pm. Everyone is welcome. fold also has a couple of studio spaces available. For more info send them a message at foldprojectscbr@gmail.com.
A studio space at fold projects.
Image credits: Mel Howe, courtesy of fold projects