Launching the display of Artothek: the art lending library

On Wednesday 23 September, the Library and RMIT Giving were delighted to launch a display of the Artothek Collection, with remarks from special guest, Senior Industry Fellow Dr Christoph Dahlhausen.

The Artothek Collection, initiated in 2020 and introduced to students in 2024, was made possible by the generous donation of approximately 250 works on paper from German-based academic and artist, Dr Christoph Dahlhausen. Dr Dahlhausen's vision was inspired by the long-standing tradition of Artotheks (art lending libraries) in Germany, which have been promoting art appreciation since the late 1960s.

“Art lending libraries…play a vital role in the contemporary art scene by reaching people who might otherwise rarely visit galleries or art fairs. They offer the opportunity to engage with art in a home setting without the often-daunting financial investment – or the sense of responsibility and long-term commitment – that comes with purchasing and permanently owning a work,” Dr Dahlhausen said in his remarks on Wednesday.

Dr Christoph Dahlhausen speaks to attendees at the Artothek launch event.

RMIT is an ideal host for Australia’s first university art lending library, given the University's strong reputation for art and design, and its commitment to student wellbeing. Dr Dahlhausen observed that RMIT had met the idea with great enthusiasm, and it was a joy to watch something they had collaborated on become a fully formed program that is now available to students and staff.

Chief Advancement Officer, Joanna Watts, spoke highly of the program at the event. “The stories we’ve heard from participants about living with original artworks – from inspiring creativity and curiosity to supporting wellbeing and connection – speak directly to the vision behind this program.”

Joanna Watts shares about the experience of students who have borrowed from the Artothek Collection so far.

In preparation for this launch, a sample of works in the Artothek Collection is now on display throughout level 5 of Swanston Library.

David Howard, Executive Director of Library Services at RMIT, observed that the exhibition has brought “a new vibrancy to the Library that allows students and visitors to explore and engage with the works up close.”

David Howard warmly introduces Dr Dahlhausen and the Artothek Collection to attendees.

Attendees of the launch event were invited to explore the sample of RMIT’s Artothek Collection on the walls of the Library, with the option to sign up for the program and take an artwork home with them.

RMIT Artothek is open to both students ($20 per year) and staff ($100 per year). Find out more and explore the Collection (login required).

30 September 2026

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Acknowledgement of Country

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.

Learn more about our commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples