About Oxford Art Factory
Oxford Art Factory (OAF) is a cutting-edge live music and arts venue in Darlinghurst, Sydney, located in the basement at 38-46 Oxford Street (www.scribd.com). Opened in September 2007 by promoter Mark Gerber (oxfordartfactory.com), it was designed as a hive of independent culture – literally inspired by Andy Warhol’s 1960s New York Factory (www.sydney.com) (oxfordartfactory.com). The result is a gritty, warehouse-style space that hosts local and international artists under one roof. Founder Mark Gerber envisioned OAF as more than just a nightclub – it’s “a bold experiment in independent culture, creativity, and late-night freedom” (oxfordartfactory.com), a creative playground where visual art meets live performance. Indeed, one music guide calls OAF “a cornerstone of the Sydney live music scene” (concreteplayground.com).
OAF actually consists of two main performance areas plus support spaces. The larger *Live Art Space* (Main Room) holds about 500 people (www.scribd.com) (www.scribd.com), while the adjoining *Gallery Bar* (Art Space) has room for roughly 120 (www.scribd.com). Each area has its own stage and bar, so they can operate independently or together. The gallery bar downstairs is entered via a short staircase to the left of the foyer (www.scribd.com), and is decorated with a famous ever-changing “Art Wall” of murals and installations that “amused, shocked and delighted” visitors from day one (www.scribd.com). Overall, every component of OAF – from the interior “factory” fit-out to its eclectic bookings – was built “by industry leaders to ensure the atmosphere is second to none” (oxfordartfactory.com) (www.scribd.com).
OAF is notable for giving emerging artists a start on its intimate stages. In its first decade thousands of local acts “cut their teeth” here, including The Rubens, Chet Faker (Nick Murphy), King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard and The Preatures (oxfordartfactory.com). Legend has it that one of Lady Gaga’s earliest Australian gigs was booked at OAF (oxfordartfactory.com), and even rock notables have dropped in – Josh Homme of Queens of the Stone Age once showed up in the gallery bar for a Killers after-party (oxfordartfactory.com). Such moments – plus cheap, all-ages rock and dance nights – cemented OAF’s reputation in the local community. As one writer noted, OAF has “been a breeding ground for musical talent, both Australian and international” (concreteplayground.com). It’s a place where a young band can share the lineup with big names, aligning with Gerber’s mission to support artists and foster “a sense of belonging” (oxfordartfactory.com) (concreteplayground.com).
Events and Programming
Oxford Art Factory hosts live music seven nights a week, with a remarkably diverse lineup. Expect everything from indie rock and punk to electronic dance, hip-hop, world music and beyond. For example, recent schedules have included UK DJ/producer Nightmares on Wax (oxfordartfactory.com), Canadian indie-pop band TOPS (oxfordartfactory.com), and Australian artists like Stella Donnelly (oxfordartfactory.com). The venue also throws club nights (dance, funk, hip-hop or genre-themed parties) featuring local DJs such as MAD PROFESSOR and ADHD (oxfordartfactory.com). Overseas tours routinely stop here: Americans Water From Your Eyes and Jake Banfield (USA) have appeared on OAF bills (oxfordartfactory.com) (oxfordartfactory.com). In short, if it’s touring Australia or bubbling on the Sydney scene, it’s likely passed through the OAF Stage.
Some event series are recurring. Oxford Art Factory is known for its big birthday parties and community fests. Milestone anniversaries (e.g. 10th and 15th birthdays) were celebrated with free, all-venue parties featuring local favourites (oxfordartfactory.com) (concreteplayground.com). It also ties in with Sydney Festival and other arts events – for instance, it has hosted Festival after-parties and sideshows under the banner of Sydney’s big summer arts festival. A signature OAF event is its *Oxford Art Factory Market*, a monthly crafts/art market on the first Saturday of each month (www.sydney.com). This daytime market showcases Sydney’s emerging visual artists, perfectly reflecting the venue’s art/music hybrid ethos.
Tickets for OAF shows range widely. Small local-band nights might be very cheap (often ~$20–30), while tours by international acts or major Aussie bands can cost $50–80 or more. (For example, a recent cover-band gig with Foo Fighters’ members was advertised at just $20 (oxfordartfactory.com).) Events can sell out quickly, so promoters often put tickets on sale a month or more in advance. For big names or festivals, early bird and pre-sale allocations are common. The OAF website regularly posts a calendar of upcoming dates, each linking to ticket info. If a show is sold out in advance, sometimes limited door tickets are released on the night – but best practice is to buy ahead because evenings can fill up fast. For special nights (birthday shows, market day, etc.) there may be no tickets or RSVP is all that’s needed, but this is clearly noted on each event listing.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Oxford Art Factory events are normally sold through official channels. The easiest way is via the venue’s own website or authorized ticketing outlets, where each event listing has a “Details & Tickets” link. There is no permanent box office on site; instead, on event nights the staff will take cash or print tickets at the door for any remaining seats. Doors often open about 8pm for 9pm performances, but this can vary, so check the show page. Popular events (big-name gigs or the monthly market) frequently sell out. For these, plan to book early online. Local promoters may also announce presale codes via social media or email newsletters if you’re subscribed. While there is no official resale platform, some sellouts end up with a few tickets on release days or door at full price. In short, the safest strategy is to reserve your spot well ahead of time to guarantee entry.
At the door, the venue typically accepts printed e-tickets and scans them. There may be a nominal service charge. There is no assigned seating: all shows are usually general admission (standing-room with some bar/lounge seats available on request). Have your confirmation ready and be patient in line – fans often line up outside before doors open, especially for sold-out shows. Note that on busy nights the front door has security checks (bags may be checked, no outside alcohol or weapons). All this is listed on event pages under “Venue Info.” One tip: some fans like to sign up for the OAF mailing list and social channels – sometimes these circulate access codes or limited pre-sales for loyal fans. Otherwise, just keep an eye on the official site for “On sale now” announcements.
Seating and Layout
Oxford Art Factory is primarily a standing-room venue, arranged in a raw nightclub style. The Main Room (Live Art Space) has a ground-floor listening floor with a stage at one end, plus a rear mezzanine balcony for extra viewers. There are a handful of high tables and seating scattered around (enough for about 70–90 people in a casual configuration (www.scribd.com)), but most concertgoers mill on the dance floor or lean on the mezzanine rail for a view. If you like to sit, come early and grab one of the sofa booths or bench seats along the walls, though these are not guaranteed during busy shows. The PA and lighting rigs are rigged for the floor, so sound is loudest at stage level; some quieter viewers prefer the mezzanine’s overlook. In contrast, the Gallery Bar (through a door and down a short flight of stairs) is much smaller – an intimate stage area with a few small tables. This downstairs bar is often set up cabaret-style or open with a low stage, giving an “underground art space meets cocktail lounge” vibe (www.scribd.com).
No extensive VIP or reserved sections exist. All general admission tickets give access to the whole floor. A word to the wise: the space is very open, so if you stand at the very front you’ll be close to the stage but may get jostled in a crowd. Back of the floor or mezzanine is more relaxed for listening. Note also that the venue’s layout includes one main staircase in and one back exit; during massive crowds, traffic can bottleneck at these choke points. Finally, the stage is fixed at one end of each room, so sightlines are best facing it head-on – avoid crowding around the side walls, which are noisy and may have obstructed views.
Getting There and Parking
Oxford Art Factory’s address is Basement, 38-46 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010 (www.scribd.com). It sits at the Oxford–Crown Street intersection, under the historic Oxford Hotel. The Darlinghurst precinct in inner-city Sydney is very well served by public transit. Numerous buses run along Oxford Street; routes to Bondi Junction, Circular Quay and other hubs all stop within a block of OAF. The nearest train station is Kings Cross (about a 10–15 minute walk north along Oxford Street). Alternatively, Museum or St James stations are a 15–20 minute walk west. Late-night transport includes the 610/620 NightRide buses and taxi/ride-share curbside pickup – the venue’s recommended drop-off is at the corner of Oxford & Riley Streets (just behind the venue). There is no Light Rail near Darlinghurst, so don’t plan on trams.
Unlike a modern arena, Oxford Art Factory has no on-site car park. Street parking around Darlinghurst is tightly controlled by council. According to staff, the *only* on-street parking allowed is on Oxford Street *before 3pm or after 7pm* – outside of those hours the meters are in force (www.scribd.com). You can sometimes find paid parking lots in the area (for example, multi-story car parks on Stanley or Riley Streets), but these fill up quickly. If driving, plan to park a few blocks away or in residential zones (and observe the 2P/4P time limits). Many punters find ride-share or taxi more convenient, especially since OAF events often run late. In any case, arriving early can give you a better chance at both a parking spot and an early door position.
Inside the Venue
Entering Oxford Art Factory is a gritty but organized experience. There is a single entry door at street level – you descend stairs into the main foyer. Staff check tickets and IDs right at the gate, so have your confirmation and photo ID ready, especially on 18+ nights. OAF tends to be strict: minors will only be admitted to all-ages gigs, and patrons wearing thongs (flip-flops) or steel-capped boots may be turned away (oxfordartfactory.com). On popular nights, there may already be a line outside before doors officially open. Once inside, you’ll see a mix of bare brick walls, metal pipes and coloured lights – very much an industrial, warehouse feel. The main room is usually packed with dance lighting and a disco ball; the vibe is warm and energetic.
Food and drink options are available on site. There are at least two bars (one on each level) serving a range of concoctions – local craft beers, ciders and even seltzers from Sydney breweries like Young Henrys and Doom Juice (concreteplayground.com), plus a full cocktail/liquor selection. The Oxford Hotel upstairs also has a full kitchen if you need a meal before the show. You may bring *snacks or small food items* into OAF, but you cannot bring your own alcohol (the venues enforce strictly that drinks sold at the bar only are allowed inside (oxfordartfactory.com)). Cash machines and cigarette vending machines are located inside (www.scribd.com), though most customers pay by card at the bar. The venue provides earplugs for sale at the bar (the music is loud!) and various free water taps.
Other amenities: there are restrooms on each level, including at least one accessible toilet. OAF is wheelchair-accessible – there’s a lift from street level and ramp access at the rear (www.scribd.com). Coats and bags can be stowed in the locker area for a small rental fee; staff confirm that lockable lockers are available to rent for valuables (oxfordartfactory.com). If you need them, there are coat hooks in the cloakroom too. Merchandise merch tables are typically near the front of house – performing artists often sell CDs and T-shirts on a trestle table by the entry. Free Wi-Fi is not usually provided (mobile reception is average due to the basement), so arrive prepared if you need directions or meet-ups. In short, inside Oxford Art Factory you’ll find a sweaty but friendly underground club atmosphere, with decent facilities (ATM, cloakroom, bars) and a strong emphasis on safety and inclusiveness.
Nearby Amenities
Darlinghurst is a dining and nightlife precinct, so OAF is surrounded by choices. For pre-show meals there are many options on Oxford Street and parallel roads (Darlinghurst Road, Crown Street and Stanley Street are a few blocks away). You’ll find everything from quick bites to sit-down cuisine – for example, pizza bars, ramen shops, Mexican taquerias and wine bars. The Oxford Hotel itself serves pub food, and just around the corner is the famous Bourke Street Bakery. If you’re after late-night snacks, gelato shops and kebab stands on Oxford stay open late on weekends.
After the gig, the area offers plenty of bars for an after-party drink. The historic Oxford Tavern (above the venue) has live music downstairs (Earl’s Juke Joint) and beers on tap. Not far away are several cocktail lounges (e.g. Love, Tilly & Co) and dance clubs. If you need a room, Darlinghurst has some hostels and boutique hotels – even the Oxford Hotel has a few rooms above – and the major hotels of the CBD are only a couple of kilometres away. Late-night transport is plentiful: taxis and ride-shares queue up at Kings Cross, and the 600-series NightRide buses stop near Hyde Park (a short walk away). In practice, many OAF fans book an Uber or use the Kings Cross taxi rank after midnight.
What Makes This Venue Special
Oxford Art Factory stands out because it wears its personality on its sleeve. Architecturally it’s an old basement reinvented as a Warhol-inspired “Factory”, with exposed brick and art installations. The Gallery Bar’s *art wall* is iconic – a graffiti-slathered mural that “launches art into the live music and bar scene” (www.scribd.com). Culturally, the venue breathed life back into King’s Cross after dark. Sydney writers regularly praise its DIY, community-minded ethos. The founder Mark Gerber calls OAF a celebration of “music, art, diversity and independence” (oxfordartfactory.com) – values reflected in its programming. From punk to electronic, everything goes, and international acts enjoy its intimate scale. In fact, concrete evidence comes from founder Gerber himself: he credits OAF with giving back to the scene through the “fantastic array of artists, both local and international” it has hosted (concreteplayground.com).
Historically, Oxford Art Factory has earned status through numerous celebrated gigs. It hosted the first Sydney show by Lady Gaga when she was unknown locally (oxfordartfactory.com), and even Felton Groflin (ex-Foo Fighters drummer) once did a surprise cover set here (oxfordartfactory.com). Legendary after-hours incidents – like rock stars crashing birthdays for tequila shots – are part of its lore. Yet it’s not a corporate arena; it’s beloved precisely for its raw, communal vibe. The liquor license (open until 5–6am (www.scribd.com)) lets fans dance late into the night. And its connection to art is genuine: it routinely doubles as a gallery and showroom (the monthly OAF Market is a big draw). For these reasons, local artists and audiences alike consider OAF a homegrown institution. Even Sydney’s tourism board hails it as an “edgy” multi-space venue bringing live music and visual art together (www.sydney.com).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Oxford Art Factory makes a serious effort on access. There is disabled lift access from street level and an accessible restroom inside (www.scribd.com). The staff expect to assist wheelchair patrons, so it’s best to ring ahead if you need any special accommodations. Anyone with mobility needs should know that the main floor is mostly flat concrete, while the gallery bar is accessed via a staircase. Patrons with prams or large luggage may also find some convenience in the ramped loading area at the rear (side entrance).
Bring ID and dress smart: Though the vibe is casual, OAF is 18+ for most shows (oxfordartfactory.com). Always bring photo ID – even tall people have been asked for proof. If your event is listed as all-ages, you can bring friends under 18, but minors are normally only admitted on special events (so double-check). The venue’s dress code is relaxed but firm about safety: wear comfortable clothes and closed shoes. As the rules say, flip-flops, thongs or heavy boots are not allowed (oxfordartfactory.com). Leave bulky coats and backpacks at home or use the coat-lockers – the staff provide lockable lockers for rent if needed (oxfordartfactory.com). In winter you might need a jacket until you get inside. No skylarking or wild costumes are needed: just come as you would to a lively club night.
Plan Your Arrival: The busiest shows have queues. Doors often open around 7–8pm, but if a concert time is 9pm, people usually start lining up an hour or more early. Arrive 30–60 minutes before showtime to avoid the rush (and maybe catch the openers). If you arrive late, be prepared for a line or to wait at the back of a packed room. One OAF tip: during sold-out events, the back door sometimes has a separate “load-in” entry; however, after doors open you generally must enter through the front entrance, so follow staff directions. Don’t leave and return – once you exit, re-entry is usually not allowed for safety.
Atmosphere and Conduct: Oxford Art Factory prides itself on a respectful crowd. Light-up attention: be respectful to other punters and the performers. There is strict security to enforce good behavior (oxfordartfactory.com). (Some reviewers have cautioned that security can be very strict about intoxication and ID checks (en.tripadvisor.com.hk), so stay sober enough to keep your wits.) That said, the staff are friendly with patrons who cooperate. Feel free to dance, mosh (in the designated space), or chill with a drink – just no aggression or harassment. The venue enforces a zero-tolerance policy on fighting or prejudice (oxfordartfactory.com). If you see trouble or need help, alert a staff marshal right away.
What to Bring: Essentials are valid photo ID and your ticket (or phone confirmation). Bring cash or card – though outlets take cards, there is an ATM on site (www.scribd.com) if needed. Most people find OAF gets hot and crowded, so bring minimal gear (use a pocket rather than a big bag). Earplugs are a good idea if you’re sensitive to loud sound. You may bring in a snack; however, no outside drinks are allowed (oxfordartfactory.com). If you forget something (an ID or jacket), go ahead and ask at the bar – they often let people charge small items to their name. Otherwise, common sense items (phone, wallet, keys) are fine. The main common mistake is underestimating queues and door policies – so plan for ID at the front.
Insider Tips: Follow OAF on social or sign up for their newsletter if you want advance notice of shows and presales – they sometimes give fans secret codes. If you’re going for drinks elsewhere first, consider the Oxford Tavern above or Earl’s Juke Joint next door; both have live music so you can stay in the vibe. And if you’re celebrating a birthday, ask about OAF’s birthday policy – on select nights the birthday person (and a small guest list) gets free entry (www.scribd.com). Overall, treat the place as a community spot: chat with staff, support local acts by buying merch, and enjoy the mix of art décor and loud beats. The better prepared and polite you are, the more you’ll get out of the OAF experience.
