Hobart is fast becoming an art Mecca. Art lovers are flocking to see the cutting edge contemporary art of Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) juxtaposed with to the heritage of the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG). There are also many independent galleries hidden in Hobart’s cobbled streets.
MONA
Established by renegade art lover and philanthropist David Walsh, the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) has been revolutionary on the Australian art scene. Cut into the rock of Berriedale and perched on the edge of the Derwent, the museum exhibits contemporary works from around the world – including some controversial anatomical pieces.
A collection of ancient Egyptian works contrasts the cutting edge art perfectly. MONA also hosts the annual MONA FOMA, a festival of world-class international musicians such as PJ Harvey, Dresden Dolls and Nick Cave. MONA has succeeded in putting Tasmania well and truly on the tourist map. On site accommodation offers architecturally-designed pavilions over-looking the Derwent River. Each pavilion is named after an artist or architect – Charles, Arthur, Sidney and Brett – and features an artwork by its namesake inside (along with many other yummy treats like a fridge stocked with wine from the on-site winery).
TMAG
The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery is a museum, art gallery and herbarium all in one. It is designed to preserve the history, natural and cultural heritage of Tasmania. The gallery features touring exhibitions from MONA, the National Portrait Gallery and Antarctic Gallery. The permanent collection houses one of the most important coin collections – from Rome to the end of convict transportation, to Federation and the decimal system. The state gallery’s mandate is to educate, research, and preserve its cultural and natural history resulting in a wide variety of interactive exhibitions. It’s well worth a visit.
SALAMANCA ARTS CENTRE
Nestled in the heart of the hip arts community in Salamanca Place, the Arts Centre is home to numerous independent galleries, including cooperative exhibition spaces showing works from Tasmanian designers, jewelers, metal workers and artists. There is also the Nolan Art Gallery and School. It’s a gorgeous labyrinth of fine arts displaying unique handmade works from Tasmania and beyond. Ignore souvenir shops, this is the place to pick up presents for all the family!
HENRY JONES ART HOTEL
For a truly experiential art gallery, try the Henry Jones Art Hotel. Located on Hobart’s waterfront, the artworks are actually integrated into this award-winning architecturally-designed hotel. Wander the halls to view 300 artworks that surprise the viewer with innovative placement.
SIDEWALK TRIBAL GALLERY
With a strong ethical position aimed at helping to alleviate poverty in Africa, Sidewalk Tribal Gallery stocks handmade works from the impoverished nation. The gallery does not exploit African artisans, playing full market price, not accepting black market documents and ensuring that all interpreters, drivers and packers are paid above local rates. The resulting exhibitions are vibrant, unique African pieces with a moral conscience.
Visit Hobart today for a world-class art experience.
Freelance writer Megan Reeder Hope+ is a former music publicist and journalist. Megan is an avid art-lover and has explored Hobart’s vibrant arts scene on numerous occasions.
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