Launched in 2024, this pioneering initiative allows RMIT students to borrow and enjoy artworks in their homes, enhancing their living spaces and enriching their university experience.
The Artothek Collection, initiated in 2020, was made possible by the generous donation of approximately 250 works on paper from German-based academic and RMIT Adjunct Professor of Fine Art, Dr. Christoph Dahlhausen. Dr. Dahlhausen's vision was inspired by the long-standing tradition of Artotheks in Germany, which have been promoting art appreciation since the late 1960s.
"Experiencing art is close to reading. Having an artwork at home opens up the possibility to 'read' slow and more sustainably. I am deeply honored that RMIT has accepted my donation to start the very first Artothek in Australia," Dr. Dahlhausen said.
RMIT is an ideal host for this unique program, given the university's strong reputation for art and design and its commitment to student wellbeing.
Students who have participated in the Artothek program have shared positive feedback about their experiences. Jidapha Wannalee, an RMIT student, highlighted the benefits: "The Artothek program has meant a lot to me this year. It allows RMIT students to enjoy arts at home, offering numerous benefits like reducing stress, stimulating creativity, and fostering connections with others. It has significantly enhanced the ambience in my space and improved my wellbeing."
Similarly, Aletta De Jong, another RMIT student, shared her gratitude: "As an interstate student, having an artwork in my home would be difficult to achieve, but the Artothek program has made it accessible. Seeing an artwork every day in my home is a different experience than viewing it in a gallery, and I am grateful to experience it."
Elizabeth Marsden, Manager of Cultural Collections at RMIT, underscored the historical and cultural significance of the university's art collection: "The University art collection reflects the history of RMIT from its foundation in 1887 to the present day and includes some of Australia's most eminent artists."
The program is exclusively available to current RMIT students, with an annual access cost of $40. Loan periods are aligned with the academic calendar with two loan rounds annually for accepted participants.
Jidapha Wannalee
RMIT Artothek Participant
Your donation can make a difference to the support the ongoing sustainability and growth of this program.
RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.
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