![[alt image] the words Design Fringe on a red lettering, with a yellow background behind it](https://melbournefringe.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Design-Fringe-Web-Banner-1024x236.jpg)
From our longstanding history as Fringe Furniture, the reimagined Design Fringe remains a place for the ambitious, the innovative and the shapeshifting. It celebrates the future of contemporary experimental design and provides a platform for designers to experiment and play, looking beyond the bounds of traditional furniture and design.
Design Fringe is Melbourne Fringe’s annual contemporary design exhibition that celebrates innovation across all facets of the industry, showcasing bold new ideas and amplifying the work of ambitious designers. It provides a space for designers to exhibit innovative creations and push the limits of traditional notions of design, featuring a broad cross section of works from textiles, jewellery, furniture, ceramics, through to architectural and civic design.
Design Fringe focuses on reducing barriers and achieving greater diversity in design as a vital part of our mission; providing opportunities for underrepresented artists to showcase their work and have their voices heard. This is led by our Gender Equity scheme and broader equity initiatives. These initiatives recognise the importance of representation in design and the value of different perspectives and experiences in shaping the industry’s future.
The humble dining table is more than just a piece of furniture; it is a cornerstone of connection, community, and culture. This year’s Design Fringe exhibition invites creatives to explore how design shapes, enhances and guides the pivotal interactions that occur around the table. From intimate moments shared with family to lively exchanges with friends and colleagues, it is a symbol of unity and togetherness. And no, we’re not only accepting submissions that are literally tables. We’re asking you, whatever form your work takes, to consider how does design create environments facilitate meaningful conversations and build stronger communities? This year’s exhibition celebrates the role of design in fostering togetherness, inspiring new forms of connection and understanding, and highlighting the vibrant intersections of culture, conversation and food. Read more about this year’s theme in the info pack.
Please direct any questions to projects@melbournefringe.com.au
Register HereGender might be just a construct, but it’s a construct that sees men paid more than other genders in many industries – and the design industry is one of ‘em. If you identify as a female or non-binary designer, read more about the opportunities on offer including mentorship, professional development opportunities and a discounted rego fee.
See opportunitiesOur Design Fringe microgrants program is jam packed with small parcels of cash (a microgrant if you will) to support artists who are finding the rego fee or other upfront costs a barrier to participation.
Find out more
Let's be pen pals! Stay up to date with all things upcoming events, festival goss and, of course, cheeky giveaways.
"*" indicates required fields
All fields marked with * are required
All fields marked with * are required
