More than just an Exhibition, our Grand Opening Night was a beautiful event full of art, love, and the celebration of a brand new chapter of Art to Art.
Check out the night and celebrate with the video below.
Words from Philippa Demase, Director of Art to Art
A landmark moment for Art to Art's gallery, Founder and Director Philippa Demase shared the meaning of this moment in a speech on the night.
"Hi, I’m Philippa, Director of Art to Art.
Thank you for being here to celebrate our official opening of our new gallery in Hawthorn. Eight years ago, this all began as a hobby — something I did after hours to stay inspired and connected to the thing I loved most. Fast forward to today, and it’s still my passion... only now it’s grown into something much bigger.
Our very first pop-up exhibition was in Prahran, and I’m beyond thrilled to see some of those same faces, from that first exhibition, here tonight. After that exhibition, the gallery moved into our home. It served us beautifully, but deep down I knew we needed a space that did the art justice. This space is that, and so much more.
Tonight I see so many familiar faces—from those early days, to the Balwyn North years—and I also see many new faces which we warmly welcome to our community.
So how did this all come to be?
It all started last December. I wrote a very specific letter to the universe.
I asked for: an industrial, light-filled space, plenty of walls, big windows, street frontage, easy parking, a thriving retail precinct. Oh—and I asked for it to be in Hawthorn.
They say “be careful what you wish for”, but I’d say “be specific when you wish.”
One Sunday, I drove past this place and my heart skipped a beat. I dropped my business card off to the mechanic two doors up… then nothing for two months.
Turns out, he lost my card!
But then I got a call. “Are you still interested?” Of course, I was. That was 10 weeks ago. We had 6 weeks to do the full fit-out. It’s been a massive effort—and tonight I want to thank those who made it possible. However my first draft was 20 minutes long so to save the time tonight, I’ll wont go into details but just know I’m deeply appreciative to all these people.
To a group of inspiring women who lifted me up, mentored me, gave me spiritual guidance, words of encouragement — and the occasional well-timed kick up the ass. Thank you to Priscilla Skippington, Sandra Amali, Miss Vik. Caroline Luizzi and Naomi Brand from The Stylist Club. To Vicki Vidor—I’m honoured you’re cutting the ribbon and to call you a friend. To Carolyn Hill (Chilli) Thank you for your energy bringing the Gift Shop to life, and Mon for the best surprise ever - 50 Show bags delivered to my door!
To the build crew You worked tirelessly and brought this space to life — thank you for your ideas, design, your time, problem-solving, painting, and your belief in the vision. You’ve all been an incredible sounding board and you made shit happen.
Thank you to Vittoria, Sam, Daniela, Paula and Mick, Sal, Sean and Luke, Andrew, Hamish, Jane, and Chilli , and ‘Maybe Wildy do it’
Tonight’s Partners Departed Spirits—for serving up seriously cool cocktails. Brillo Furniture—for elevating the space with your collection. Studio McKenna—for trusting us with your stunning candles and essential oils. The guys from Hide and Seek for the red wine.
Finally—to our artists. If it weren’t for you, none of this would exist. It is such a privilege to represent you and to be a part of this incredible industry. I have the highest respect for each of you and love that you feel like family. Some might say I’m crazy for opening a gallery when so many are closing, but I’ve never been one to follow the trends.
With the rise of AI and digital everything, I believe more than ever that we need art — real, human-made, heart-driven art. This space isn’t just about hanging paintings on walls. It’s about connection. It’s about creating a place where people can pause, feel something, be inspired, and feel part of a community. I want this gallery to be a warm, welcoming hub — where creativity thrives, conversations spark, and art brings us back to ourselves and each other.
So here’s what I’ve learnt. If you believe in yourself, dreams really can happen. I believe in our team. I believe in our artists. I believe in the power of this community. And I believe art changes lives.
I’d love to share a quote by poet and philosopher Mark Nepo that helped guide me: “The flower doesn’t dream of the bee. It blossoms, and the bee comes.” A simple reminder to keep showing up, doing the work, stay true and the rest will follow."
– Philippa Demase,
Director of Art to Art
