Culture
MPavilion, Queen Victoria Gardens
MPavilion is Australia’s largest architectural commission. A design luminary is invited on an annual basis to create a community structure that will host a year-long programme of events and activations. The 2023 pavilion by Tadao Ando was so widely acclaimed that its tenancy at Queen Victoria Gardens was extended through to 2030.
NGV International, Southbank
The NGV International is Australia’s most-visited gallery – and rightfully so. That is thanks to its ambitious blockbuster exhibitions and a permanent collection with works from some of the greatest artists across the globe. It’s all housed within a striking complex, which includes the world’s largest stained-glass ceiling. Make sure to visit its local counterpart, The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, at nearby Federation Square.
State Library Victoria, CBD
The La Trobe Reading Room – the towering octagonal centrepiece of the State Library – is a monument to scholastic splendour. But the rest of the library is packed with less conspicuous treasures, from rotating exhibitions to its display of the armour of Ned Kelly, Australia’s most iconic outlaw.
Heide Museum of Modern Art, Bulleen
Purchased in 1934 by John and Sunday Reed, this sprawling museum is in the outer suburb of Bulleen. Its top-notch collection, which includes works by prized Australian artists such as Sidney Nolan, Joy Hester and Albert Tucker, makes the journey worth your while. Allow plenty of time to enjoy the serene gardens.
Abbotsford Convent, Abbotsford
Eleven buildings across more than six hectares make up this former monastic site, now a delightful first-rate arts hub. The space houses some 100 artistic studios and two galleries, as well as Cam’s Kiosk and Julie – two of Melbourne’s favourite restaurants.
