The series will be presented by the Art Gallery of Ballarat Foundation in a bid to attract a broader audience to the gallery and to showcase its versatility.

Art Gallery of Ballarat Foundation chairman Mark Guirguis said the inaugural series’ fundraising event, entitled Midwinter Fling, would bring a party atmosphere to the gallery.

Mr Guirguis said the event would feature a DJ, art projections, food and the chance to see the gallery’s current For Auld Lang Syne exhibition.

“The Midwinter Fling is a chance for people to come in, celebrate winter, have a bit of a dance and view the exhibition in a fun party setting,” Mr Guirguis said.

“It’s about broadening perceptions of the gallery and targeting a younger market which might not have spent much time there.”

The Art Gallery of Ballarat Foundation was established in 1998 as a charitable fund for the benefit of the gallery.

Mr Guirguis said the main aim of the foundation was to raise funds to assist the gallery with specific projects or acquisitions.

He said the foundation was always looking at ways to increase community involvement with the gallery.

“We’re trying to raise awareness of the gallery and events like the Art After Dark series broaden the appeal of the gallery in the community,” he said. “We want the people of Ballarat to be proud of the gallery. It’s an incredible asset to the city and I think it’s a really important part of its heritage.

“The gallery is highly regarded in the arts community and it plays an important role in the arts landscape and we need funds to make sure it stays in that position.”

dellaram.vreeland@fairfaxmedia.com.au