fortyfivedownstairs is now accepting expressions of interest from artists to participate in Punchlines, a group exhibition exploring the use of humour in contemporary art. The exhibition will run from 24 March – 18 April 2026.

We’re looking for artworks that make us smirk, snigger, snort, chuckle, giggle, lol, crack up, guffaw, gasp for air, pee our pants – or even literally die laughing.

This visual humour may take many forms, including (but not limited to): satire and social critique, wordplay and visual puns, absurdity, surrealism, dark humour, pop art, playful disruption, appropriation, or just plain silliness. Works may entertain, surprise, or unsettle, using laughter to expose contradictions, challenge authority, critique politics or culture, or simply revel in the joy of making something funny.

Submissions are welcome across all mediums, stylistic approaches, and subject matter, including painting, photography, sculpture, textiles, installation, digital media, and experimental practices.

Please note:

• Capacity for large 3D works and installations is limited.
• Smaller 3D works must be wall-hung or presented on a shelf (artists must supply their own display supports).

Punchlines offers a great opportunity to show new work, engage with collectors, promote your practice, or experiment within a professional gallery setting. Group exhibitions at fortyfivedownstairs allow artists to exhibit alongside both emerging and established peers without the pressure of a solo show.

This exhibition will coincide with the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, which will be taking over the theatre at fortyfivedownstairs. Last year, the MICF attracted 5,000 patrons to our venue, all of whom passed through the gallery before the comedy shows, making this a fantastic opportunity to showcase your work to a large audience.

Exhibition Fees

Submitting an expression of interest is free. Only artists selected to exhibit will be required to pay the exhibition fee.

• Up to 6 artworks may be accepted per artist.
• 1–2 artworks: $100 per artwork
• 3 or more artworks: $80 per artwork
• Standard artwork size: 80 × 80 cm or under
• Works larger than 80 cm on any side may attract a higher fee

Terms & Conditions

• fortyfivedownstairs curates exhibitions carefully and may limit the number of works displayed per artist based on artwork size and available wall space.
• A 15% commission is retained on all sold works.
• Selected artists must sign an artist agreement outlining the rights and responsibilities of both artist and gallery.
• Artists must supply high-resolution images and full artwork details (title, medium, dimensions, and price) by Monday 9 March 2026.
• All artworks must be completed and delivered to the gallery by 5:00 PM, Saturday 21 March 2026.
• The exhibition will open with a public opening celebration from 5–7 PM on Tuesday 24 March 2026.

How to Apply

To submit your proposal, please email [email protected] with the following:

• A short statement about the proposed artworks
• A short statement about your practice
• Images of the artworks, including details: Title, Year, Medium, Edition (if applicable), Dimensions, and Price

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: MONDAY 2 MARCH 2026, MIDNIGHT