Who we are

Our Mission

To develop, promote and manage GHAC as a facility so as to maximise opportunities for artistic development and expression for both artists and the wider community and to enhance the heritage value of the facility.

Our Vision

All people believe their lives are enriched by the arts and value and respect the rich history and heritage significance of Gorman House.

Gorman House is an Incorporated Organisation established in 1981, whose principal role is arts facility management, the support of arts practices in the ACT through the provision of appropriate and affordable arts accommodation - together with the provision of a range of efficient, professional management, administration and maintenance services to all tenants.

Centrally located near the Canberra CBD, Gorman House Arts Centre offers:

Five intimate theatres, workshop/rehearsal studios, art gallery, artist & craft studios, function centre, restaurant & weekly Markets - all within the beautiful heritage setting of Gorman House.

Gorman House is administered from the Centre in Ainslie Avenue, Braddon ACT.

Originally built in 1924 as a Government Hostel, Gorman House was designed in the Garden Pavilion style, which followed the Garden City concept of Walter Burley Griffin.

The charm of the 1920s architecture is reflected in the eight heritage buildings linked by Wisteria clad undercover walkways, sunny courtyards, lawns and magnificent Hawthorns arranged symmetrically about the original central Dining Room.

GHAC currently hosts 32 arts sector professionals and as Canberra's first Arts Centre, we combine the charm of a 1920 heritage setting in a high profile, central location - together with a highly functional, well equipped Community Arts Centre catering for the needs of all sectors of the arts.

Maintaining the highest reputation as a vibrant home for the arts in the National Capital is paramount to the future of GHAC, and through our continuous improvement program, 2011 will see a further long list of works undertaken to ensure that the needs of tenants are met and the highest standard of accommodation, functionality and services are provided.

GHAC has maintained a 100% rate of accommodation over recent years, plus a waiting list of people wishing to join - the Centre holds a very strong position financially and has recently completed a long list of major maintenance works and improvements.

GHAC is now planning to undertake further works within both our tenants' accommodation areas and throughout the heritage grounds.

GHAC also hosts the ACT Community Arts Office who work enthusiastically to highlight proudly the importance of the Canberra Indigenous Community, of sharing the Multicultural nature of the Canberra Community and the inclusion and celebration of people with disabilities - in addition GHAC holds the responsibility of the provision of Management, Administration and Maintenance services on behalf of Ainslie Arts Centre in Braddon ACT.

Gorman House Arts Centre Inc - Board

GHAC has a Board made up of 4 Tenant and 4 Community Members.