Best of NGV Australia provides fascinating insights into First Nations art and culture as one of the Gallery’s knowledgeable storytellers leads guests on a one-hour tour of the Ian Potter Centre. This is a memorable journey with expert guidance making all the difference to the experience of viewing previously hidden gems of the NGV Collection, hearing the untold stories of some of our most famous artists, and as well, learning of the symbolism and techniques used by Australian Indigenous artists. Importantly it showcases Australia’s national identity as the oldest continuous civilisation on earth. Highlights include exploring the techniques, history and contemporary innovation of bark paintings in the Bark Salon display, as well as uncovering the story of a hidden painting by Australian abstract artist Ralph Balson discovered behind a portrait by his colleague George Crowley.
Best of NGV International is also a one-hour private tour led by one of the Gallery’s storyteller guides providing a brilliant snapshot of the Gallery’s internationally renowned collection of more than 80,000 works. Some of the Gallery’s prized artworks taking the spotlight on this tour include discovering the grand story and technical innovation of Giambattista Tiepolo’s The Banquet of Cleopatra, exploring how a seventeenth-century Dutch Delft vase reflects intercultural exchange between East and West, and stepping inside Yayoi Kasuma’s Dancing Pumpkin for an immersive encounter of the giant contemporary sculptural work.
Both tours are designed to hold appeal whether you are a gallerist or art expert or simply interested in art and design.
Private experiences for groups are available for both tours, Monday to Friday at select times, between 10am and 5pm.
Minimum 10/maximum 20 guests, $40 per person. For groups smaller than 10, a minimum fee of $400 applies.
Prior booking with a two-week lead time is required.
Links to high-res images are below, please credit the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) – Visitors at NGV Australia. Photo: Tim Carrafa and Visitors at NGV International. Photo: Tim Carrafa.
Visitors at NGV Australia. Photo: Tim Carrafa