Lantern Vaults

Lantern Vaults is an installation by Amanda Western

The Experience

A new immersive installation in the basement of the Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute as part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival.

The work is shaped by historical research and guided by the voice of Florence Batten, the twelve- year-old daughter of William Henry Batten, Secretary of the Institute, and based in the early 1870s.

As visitors move through the vaults, her story unfolds through image, light and sound, offering a glimpse into early Ballarat and the Batten family’s story.

The installation is built from original artworks created by local artist Amanda Western for this project, drawing on historical photographs and records of the family, the Institute and the cultural life of the period.

At its centre is a family closely connected to the Institute, at a time when access to learning was beginning to open out. The Mechanics’ Institute was founded to bring knowledge within reach of ordinary people, and this work reflects that shift, how learning moved beyond a small few and into the wider community.

Make and Create

As part of this experience, a workshop space will allow visitors to make a creative response to the installation to take home. This exercise will be suitable for all ages.

Lantern Vaults Artworks

Original artworks from Lantern Vaults will be available for sale with 10% of sales going to the BMI. These funds help support the ongoing committment – To providing a unique place to engage with history, and a vibrant hub for community events.

Cost: Installation preview (Tue 19 May at 7.30pm): $55 (incl gst) plus card and booking fees, includes Champagne on arrival, artist talk and Q&A

Daily installation tour sessions (21 - 24 May): Free

Accessiblity note: Most of this experience occurs in the Basement which is only accessbile via a staircase with railings.

Tickets also available from the Library Box Office. BMI event listing - https://ballaratmi.org.au/art/

This event takes place on Wadawurrung Country. The Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute acknowledges the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the first inhabitants and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work, learn and create. Always Was, Always Will Be, Aboriginal Land.