This May, Ballarat’s historic CBD will become an open-air gallery after dark as the HIDDEN micro arts festival illuminates the city’s hidden corners.
On Friday, 16 May, from 6pm, art lovers can embark on a secret trail to eight heritage locations, where stunning projections by local artists will bring forgotten stories to life.
Curated for the curious, HIDDEN features works by Ballarat’s most exciting creatives—including Annelise Belladonna, Spencer Harrison, and Stefanie Petrik—who have reimagined the city’s heritage through light and digital art. Mentored by projection art expert Yandell Walton, their pieces will transform facades, alleyways, and overlooked spaces into a mesmerizing visual journey.
Organisers say the festival isn’t just about pretty projections – it’s about uncovering layers of Ballarat’s history in a way that surprises even locals.
The event kicks off a weekend of creativity, with Craft Lab following on Saturday and Sunday for those wanting to dive deeper into the region’s art scene.
Tickets are limited for this one-night-only experience, with the starting point revealed upon booking. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, HIDDEN offers a rare chance to see Ballarat glow with fresh perspective—and maybe discover a secret or two along the way.