About Us

Connect, Enrich, Inspire

We believe that the arts can enrich people’s lives, and we aim to be an inclusive and influential educator, supporter, and promoter of the arts Australia-wide.

WHAT IS ARTSNATIONAL?

ArtsNational is a not-for-profit, volunteer led, national association providing superbly illustrated, informative and entertaining arts talks, delivered by internationally recognised experts on diverse arts related topics. ArtsNational (previously called ADFAS – Australian Decorative and Fine Arts Societies) is proud to be the governing body of 35 Societies with more than 5,500 members located across Australia.

Formed in 1989 and incorporated as a registered charity with the ACNC in 1991, ArtsNational has become a renowned leader in arts education, the support of young artists, and supporting the conservation of Australia’s cultural heritage.

Local ArtsNational Societies situated in both metropolitan and regional centres are often the focus of cultural and community activities, connecting people with the arts and with each other in a positive, fun, sharing and informative environment. Consider joining a Society as a member or come along to a talk as a visitor. Everyone is welcome.

SUPPORTING THE ARTS

The majority of ArtsNational Societies support young artists / young people to engage in the arts across a wide variety of disciplines. Societies also participate in the recording of the histories and contents of school of arts buildings, churches and other buildings of historical significance in their local communities.

ArtsNational supports young conservators through the Patricia Robertson Fund in agreement with the Australian Institute of Conservation of Cultural Materials (AICCM). The PRF is also dedicated to the conservation of Australia’s national heritage by supporting the conservation and restoration of important cultural and historical national heritage items.

The ArtsNational Philanthropic Fund is a DGR Fund enabling extended support to young artists through the young Arts Awards. This fund supports tax-deductible donations.

WHY JOIN ARTSNATIONAL?

Discover and learn more about the arts in a friendly welcoming environment. Anyone who wishes to develop or already has an interest in the arts is very welcome. Enjoy regular face-to-face presentations, cultural and social opportunities and make new friends over casual refreshments.

WHO ARE ARTSNATIONAL LECTURERS / PRESENTERS?

Recognised experts and passionate in their field of interest, international or local presenters are drawn from a variety of professional backgrounds to present on a wide range of topics.

CAN I COME ALONG TO SELECTED PRESENTATIONS?

Most ArtsNational attendees get the most of their engagement with their local society by joining as a member, however guests are very welcome to come along to selected lectures/presentations of their choice.

Click Here to learn more about the ArtsNational Lecture Series