Unleash you artistic potential on Sunday 21 May & Sunday 28 May, two sessions each day starting at 2pm & 7pm each day, duration two hours each session. Attention, all ye aspiring artists and lovers of the fine arts! A most exceptional life drawing session awaits thee in the depths of a heritage basement, reminiscent […]
Life Drawing in the Basement Read More »
Unleash you artistic potential on Sunday 21 May & Sunday 28 May, two sessions each day starting at 2pm & 7pm each day, duration two hours each session. Attention, all ye aspiring artists and lovers of the fine arts! A most exceptional life drawing session awaits thee in the depths of a heritage basement, reminiscent
Life Drawing in the Basement (this event now cancelled) Read More »
An introduction to the history of the BMI Heritage listed collection, its origins, preservation and future, including an examination of some of the most valuable collection items. The Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute (BMI) Collection is of historical significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and the important role it played in the intellectual,
The Heritage Collection | Special Program Read More »
A relaxed session of writing poetry as personal catharsis. Let your feelings flow onto the page with a series of writing prompts and the gift of time to write, with the option to share your poetic works out loud in a safe, facilitated space. Confirmation This FREE event is being run by Ballarat Libraries Get
Feeling Out Loud: Writing Poetry Read More »
Come along and experience our Maker Market & Book Sale before winter sets in: Calling for stallholders | Expression of interest > Free entry View our stallholders from previous events. Stallholders Book Sale We will be hosting a book sale in the Library. These books have been donated to the BMI by members and the
BMI Autumn Maker Market Read More »
Format A workshop in creating crepe paper begonia flowers with Marianne & Alison Thomson (aka Madam Lovage Florist & Sunshine Plants popups CBD Ballarat) This workshop is to support families in decorating their homes for the Begonia Festival (March 11-13), our objective is to make posies and bunting together to take home. Attendance To attend
Embrace the Begonia Festival Workshop | Location now changed Read More »
Faye Heininger Faye started Lilli Pilli Beads (a paper bead jewellery and accessories company) after moving to Ballarat in September 2019. She has a background in art and started creating art in high school. She has a diploma of Interior Design, a Certificate III in Visual Art and has worked in marketing for almost 30
Paper bead-making with Faye Heininger | Intermediate Copy Read More »
A Workshop in Glass Painting Glass Painting is the technique of applying thick paint to a translucent surface, creating a transparent work of art. In this workshop, you will be guided by Vienna through painting on Perspex sheets to create your own. This workshop covers design, transfer, and technique. Vienna Bischard is a young artist
Glass Painting with Vienna Bischard Read More »
A Workshop in Glass Painting Glass Painting is the technique of applying thick paint to a translucent surface, creating a transparent work of art. In this workshop, you will be guided by Vienna through painting on Perspex sheets to create your own. This workshop covers design, transfer, and technique. Vienna Bischard is a young artist
Glass Painting with Vienna Bischard Read More »
A Workshop in Glass Painting Glass Painting is the technique of applying thick paint to a translucent surface, creating a transparent work of art. In this workshop, you will be guided by Vienna through painting on Perspex sheets to create your own. This workshop covers design, transfer, and technique. Vienna Bischard is a young artist
Glass Painting with Vienna Bischard Read More »
Trivia Night Fundraiser
26 August Doors open 6.45pm | Tickets also available at the door
$25 per person | $20 BMI members
Minerva's Secrets Night Tours
Tue 19 May with special visit to Lantern Vaults
Tour 1 at 7pm – Tour 2 at 9pm.
Calling for Pre-loved books
These donation assist in our Library Fundraising Activities
We can take delivery during regular Library operating hours. See website footer.
Coming in November…
Stella Day Out, Ballarat, Rachael Johns & Margaret Hickey
Spring Season, History Talks:
Ballarat's Henry Lawson - The Dragon's Den - Gold! Gold! Gold!
Wed 3, 17 & 24 September, 5.30pm.
Bubbly on arrival featuring quality items from our Vintage Shop
Pre-Sale $60 from 6 Aug to 9 Aug - $65 thereafter
The Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 2026 Calendar
Featuring illustrations from our Heritage Book Collection $40
Your gift will be tax-deductible this financial year if you make it before June 30.
Like many organisations the BMI faces significant funding challenges.
