9x5 Exhibition & Fundraiser
It’s time for The Cannery Arts Centre’s biannual 9x5 Fundraiser - our biggest event of the year and an essential part of keeping the doors open and creativity flowing. By purchasing an artwork, you directly support our ongoing exhibitions, workshops, and community programs.
The 9x5 tradition hails from the Heidelberg School in Melbourne, whose artists famously exhibited paintings on cigar box lids measuring nine by five inches. Every two years, we invite artists from across WA and beyond to continue this tradition, contributing small works that collectively make a big impact.
With more than 200 artworks on display - spanning ceramics, painting, textiles, drawing and more - there’s something for every taste and budget.
Key Dates
🖼️ Artists preview invite only: Thursday 13 November
🖼️ Exhibition opens: Friday 14 November
✏️ Pencil bidding: 14 November – Saturday 13 December, 4pm
🔨 Live Auction: Sunday 14 December, 10.30am for 11am bidding.
Whether you’re an art collector, a first-time buyer, or simply looking to support your local arts centre, the 9x5 is an inspiring and enjoyable way to be part of Esperance’s creative community.
BIDDING PROCESS
There are a few ways to take part in the 9x5 Auction and help raise funds for The Cannery Arts Centre.
✏️ Pencil Bidding (Main Gallery)
Register online here or on our iPad in the exhibition.
Collect your bidder number from our friendly FOH team.
Place your bids on the artworks you love using the paper sheets - just make sure your bid is higher than the last one!
Pencil bidding closes Saturday at 4pm.
Pencil bids set the starting price for the Live Auction.
If no one bids higher on the day, the pencil bidder wins!
We’ll contact pencil bid winners for payment after the event.
Note: Pencil bidding carries a risk — you might be outbid! So join us for the Live Auction or register for a phone bid to boost your chances.
🏛️ Live Auction (or Phone In)
Sunday 14 December
Doors open 10:30am, auction starts 11:00am
Attend in Person
Bring your bidder number
Wait for your favourite artwork to come up
Bid enthusiastically — and outbid everyone else!
Bid by phone
Can’t make it in person?
Register, then email bidder@canneryarts.com.au with:
Your bidder number
Phone number
Artwork numbers and titles you’d like to bid on
We’ll call you when those artworks are up for bidding and take your bids live.
FAQS
What if I’m the highest bidder but not at the auction?
We’ll contact you for payment within a week. If we don’t hear back within 5 days, the artwork will be offered to the next bidder.
Can my artwork be posted?
Yes — tick the postage box in your registration.
Standard postage is $15 (larger or heavier works may cost more).
Can I bid anonymously?
Yes, all auction and phone bids are anonymous.
Can I have someone bid for me at the live auction?
Yes. With your permission and number, you can ask someone to bid for you. You can even ask a Cannery staff member by emailing bidder@canneryarts.com.au
Can I pay in cash?
Card is preferred, but cash will be accepted on the auction day.
What if I change my mind?
All sales are final — please bid thoughtfully.
How should I hang my artwork?
Some pieces are ready to hang. If not, we recommend:
Command Velcro picture strips (easy option)
Displaying on a shelf
A small hanging set with screws (boards are 6mm MDF)
