Melbourne Art Scene

Our Local Expert Says:

The Australian Centre for Contemporary Art (ACCA) is easily one of Melbourne’s leading contemporary art institutions but don’t be intimidated; just wear black and nod.

Description:

With a focus on exhibiting rather than collecting, the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art (ACCA) is dedicated to the promotion of innovative, evocative, creative and challenging art.

Designed by Melbourne based architects, Wood Marsh, the building itself is an iconic masterpiece, the rustic steel mass a landmark in Melbourne's inner city art precinct.

ACCA hosts five exhibition seasons each year by both local and international artists. Their exhibitions remain innovative through commission; artists are allowed encouraged to produce new work specifically for ACCA, a process that fosters creativity and experimentation.

Be sure to visit the ACCA shop to peruse current art journals and publications and even take a little piece of art home with you.

Description:

Anna Schwartz is the director of the Anna Schwartz Gallery, which showcases contemporary art. Works of well-known artists like Daniel Von Strummer, John Young, Mike Parr, Louisa Bufardeci and many other talented ones are exhibited here. At this much fascinating gallery, you will find eclectic art forms and theme-based displays. Periodic exhibitions are held at this gallery which give artists a platform to unleash their creativity. A must-visit for somebody who appreciates experimentative and innovative art forms.

Our Local Expert Says:

A seat at the window overlooking the boutique shops on Flinders Lane is the perfect place for tapas and a refreshing mojito.

Description:

Open since 1997 and located on an increasingly upmarket section of Little Collins Street, the Hairy Canary has carved out a niche for itself as a popular drinking or eating spot. A bar as well as a restaurant, it is often packed with a variety of patrons, creating a boisterous Latin feel to go with its menu. The food mixes influences from all over the Mediterranean, from Spanish paella, featuring seafoods like mussels and oysters, to pizzas and antipastos. Of course, there is a wide range of cocktails, spirits and other drinks available.

Description:

Blindside is located inside the historically famous Nicholas building and provides a platform for contemporary artists to unleash their creativity. The studio also allows the artists to use the space at the venue for informal discussions and communication with fellow mates. Experimentation, innovation and freedom of expression are highly encouraged. The program mentors artists, writers, curators to explore their hidden talents. Read perspectives of your favorites in the studio's publications and stay in touch with their work through periodic exhibitions held at this studio.

Description:

Gallery Funaki is the sole Australian gallery which exhibits and specializes in contemporary international designer jewelry. Mari Funaki, renowned jewelry maker is the visionary of this unique gallery. The creations of artists from Europe, Asia and Australia can be found here. Exquisite pieces of artists like David Neale, Robert Baines, Alina Jay and many other talented designers are exhibited in the periodical exhibitions. Jewelry is not about accessories alone but its a beautiful visual art at this unique gallery.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) is a must for any serious film buff. Luckily you can leave your black beret at the door because media art has never been so accessible.

Description:

More than a just a refuge for film buffs and gaming geeks, Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) provides an interactive multimedia experience for all ages. The world's largest screen gallery, ACMI is devoted to the promotion of innovative cinema, television, new media and games, inviting punters to experience multimedia art with the same consideration often restricted to more traditional art forms.

Opening 2002, ACMI is nestled in Melbourne's iconic Federation Square. Conveniently located opposite Flinders Street Station, it's easy to pop in for a film, talk, creative workshop or exhibition. Get lost in the maze of interactive screen galleries and make your own moving image story.

Description:

This is one of Australia's most exciting public art galleries, with a changing programme of exhibitions of Australian and international contemporary art, design, craft, architecture and new media. The gallery also hosts open lectures, forums, and performances which contribute to the lively discussion and experience of contemporary culture. Exhibitions this year include such areas as fashion photography, furniture design, architecture and pottery. You will find work by indigenous Australian artists, ethnic groups, and international cultural bodies. This gallery never fails to entertain and delight--well worth a visit. Admission is free. Advance notification of visits by large groups preferable. Talks by curators and artists can be arranged upon request.

Our Local Expert Says:

It might be small, but West Space has big ideas. The contemporary art inclined will revel in the grass roots operation of this artist run space. Turn up on Thursday nights for exhibition openings and free drinks before heading into Chinatown for some dumplings.

Description:

One of Melbourne's most prolific artist run initiatives, West Space exhibits challenging and innovative contemporary art on par with the Big Boys. Founded in 1993, West Space epitomises the throb of Melbourne's underground art scene, encouraging dialogue between the public and artists, and of course, free booze at exhibition openings.

Hidden in the Central Business District (CBD), West Space is well worth seeking out. The engaging program covers all things contemporary with collaborations that blur boundaries of traditional art practice.

Our Local Expert Says:

Heide Museum of Modern Art is a more than just a gallery: it’s a piece of Melbourne art history in stunning rural surrounds. Only a short drive from the city, it’s definite for any Australian art lover.

Description:

History and the contemporary unite at Heide Museum of Modern Art. Hidden within sixteen acres of tranquil gardens in Melbourne's outer suburb of Bulleen, Heidi was once home to infamous Melbourne art collectors John and Sunday Reed and also housed iconic Australian artists such as Sidney Nolan and Joy Hester for stretches between the 1930s and 1950s.

The debauchery between these strained lovers and friends is long gone, but their creative spirit is still present in the walls of Heide. The original house is now Heide I, one of the three gallery spaces open to the public. Exhibiting modern and contemporary art exhibitions, Heide finds its difference in the unique combination of the natural landscape drenched in artistic and social history and its firm embrace of the new through modernist architecture.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Heide Café, so fresh you can look out the window and watch it grow.

Most easily accessible by car, Heide Museum of Modern Art is well worth the 20 minute drive from Melbourne's Central Business District.

Our Local Expert Says:

TarraWarra Estate is the most visitor friendly wineries in the Yarra Valley. Set off early with an empty stomach to get the most from the café, art museum and wine tastings.

Description:

TarraWarra Estate is the simplest way to enjoy Victoria's Yarra Valley. Complete with a fine dining restaurant, museum of art and of course, an open cellar door, it's the perfect country escape.

Sit hillside in the WineBar café and let the Allen Powell's carefully crafted architecture carve the landcape views for you. Powell won the inaugural Premier's Design Award for his work on the Museum, the architecture growing seamlessly from the landscape. With a menu built to compliment the current vintage, this is no snack bar. Be prepared for a serious culinary experience and remember to book in advance.

The popular Tin Cows wine focus on vibrant fruit and pure varietal character, and are named after the permanent metal cow sculptures in the gardens. An easy hour-long drive from Melbourne, pity the designated driver who can't get stuck into the plonk. But there's plenty of non-alcoholic entertainment next door at the TarraWarra Museum of Art.

Our Local Expert Says:

It’s unthinkable to visit Melbourne and not stop in at the National Gallery of Victoria. Visit mid-week to avoid the weekend rush and don’t even think about visiting on Mother’s Day.

Description:

Located on the tree-lined St Kilda Road, The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is home to a world-class international art collection. The permanent display offers visitors some of the biggest names in international art, but be sure to check the temporary exhibition program in advance to make the most out of your visit. The worldwide collaboration between leading curators provides for an exciting catalogue of work.

Don't miss The Great Hall with its rainbow prism stained-glass ceiling or the Water Trail permanent display out front. The easiest way to get round is to take a free tour-guide so you don't miss any of the displays.

Description:

Flowing through the heart of Melbourne is the Yarra River. Originally known as Birrarung or the river of mist to the city's Aboriginal inhabitants, the Yarra played a vital role in the development of the city. Today, it is lined with some of Melbourne's most popular attractions. A 10 minute stroll along its banks in the city centre will take you past the World Trade Centre, Exhibition Centre, Crown Casino Complex, the Aquarium, the Southgate Centre, Flinders Street train station, the ornate Princes Bridge and the Domain gardens. To the East of the city centre, the river is lined with grassy green parks with picnic areas and barbecues that are thronged on sunny weekends with locals and visitors.

Our Local Expert Says:

Learn to survive the harsh Australian outback and learn about Aboriginal culture and heritage. On Wednesdays during spring and summer a local Aboriginal elder takes one-hour tours identifying bush food at the Royal Botanic Gardens.

Description:

Established in 1846, Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens are magnificently landscaped and boast a superb collection of plants from around Australia and the world. Spend a few hours strolling around, observing the beautiful black swans and water birds. Alternatively, join a tour, such as the Aboriginal Heritage Walk or the Night Sky Experience (bookings required). There are special holiday and educational programs for children. Moonlight Cinema takes place nightly during summer. The Plant Craft Cottage sells unique handcrafts and the Observatory Café is great for light refreshments. The more formal Terrace Restaurant is ideal for corporate and private functions. Admission: Free.