Save Kings! Kings Artist-Run Initiative is a gallery, studio complex and artist collective located in the west end of Melbourne’s CBD. On 19 November 2008 Kings ARI received notification from its estate agent that the owner of its premises of 171 King St Melbourne, a superannuation fund, wishes to sign a new lease at a commencement rate 48% higher than the current rent. This massively high rental increase is completely unsustainable by Kings ARI. The proposed rental increase threatens the viability of Kings ARI as such a rental hike soars far beyond its annual operating budget. The repossession of vacant and derelict buildings by developers has seen many once thriving artists initiatives and studios in Melbourne's CBD closed down: the Flinders Lane studios is a recent example. Artist-run initiatives and studios will continue to be forced out of the CBD unless progressive urban policies are put in place to guarantee their continued existence. Help to save Kings ARI by signing this petition! This petition will be sent to the owner of the premises of 171 King St by 20 December 2008. Sign now and tell your friends!