Opening in 2021, the exhibition creates immersive experiences via 143 high-definition projectors displaying artwork on 11-metre walls across 3000 square metres of space.
The digital art gallery’s inaugural exhibition featured the works of Vincent van Gogh, and that popular experience will return on Boxing Day 2024.
Exhibition staff were informed of the impending closure via an email from owner Bruce Peterson, stating its lease at MCEC won’t be renewed.
“All good things must come to an end, and often the difficulty is knowing when to call time,” he says in the email.
A company statement elaborated on the decision to not renew the lease.
“THE LUME Melbourne’s lease at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre was up for renewal in January 2026, and we have made the decision to not extend it beyond that time,” it reads.
“This decision, made in alignment with our parent company, Grande Experiences, reflects our ambition to explore new directions and technologies that build on our success here in Melbourne.
“Since opening in November 2021, THE LUME Melbourne has become a beloved cultural destination, inviting audiences to experience art in an inclusive, accessible and engaging way.
“We are incredibly proud of what’s been achieved during the past three years.
“We look forward to an unforgettable final year at MCEC and to sharing this exciting new chapter of THE LUME as we continue to push the boundaries of how technology can bring art and culture to life.”
THE LUME will cease taking bookings from mid-May 2025.
