Catherine Smith
Australia
I visited the 'Cats and Dogs' exhibition, which was excellently curated with cats and dogs displayed on opposite walls, echoing their real-life separation. I appreciated the child-friendly notes accompanying some artworks to simplify the art concepts. The exhibition featured various mediums such as sculptures, textiles, prints, paintings, sketches, and digital imagery spanning from ancient to contemporary times. At the exhibition's end, visitors could upload pictures of their pets, which were then showcased on the wall in decorative frames. It was an interactive experience; it took about 20 minutes for my sister's photos to be displayed. The gallery hosts a Members Lounge, though the coffee machine was out of order during our visit. There’s also a shop in the foyer, but the items were overpriced. I did notice a lack of seating to enjoy and absorb the artistic works. Additionally, we were misled about the lifts; many of us waited at the 'Goods Lift' before realizing the public lift was located across from the Service Desk, highlighting the need for clear signage.
Entry is free, and there is an impressive collection of Aboriginal art. The space is large with many beautiful artworks. Lockers are available for personal items. I would definitely revisit when I get the chance.
You can enter for free, but be mindful that some exhibits require a fee or early access, so check their website for details! There are also free guided tours; just remember the schedule. You can enjoy the full experience, but be aware of the location details since NGV International and NGV Australia host different exhibits. Additionally, make sure to keep your bags light, as bulky items or coats must be stored; they provide a card to reclaim your belongings later.
I cannot believe how amazing this informative and historic venue is, and it's free to enter! I strongly recommend visiting if you're in Melbourne's CBD, as you can learn about Australian culture through Aboriginal, colonial, and contemporary art across three levels. There’s also a fascinating exhibition on Melbourne's past and future development, highlighting environmental impacts and improvements.
We thoroughly enjoyed exploring this section of NGV, especially for its display of Aboriginal art and knowledge, which I found less prevalent in other Melbourne museums. The museum was quite peaceful during the week, and we had the place to ourselves in the evening. NGV offers free general admission, though tickets for specific temporary exhibitions cost around 18 AUD. The 'Cats & Dogs' exhibition was incredibly enjoyable and well-organized.
