One of the things that makes Melbourne truly extraordinary is its vibrant and eclectic art scene. Though I never considered myself an art enthusiast, I’ve always been captivated by how a single piece of art can stir the deepest corners of the soul.
My visit to the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) unveiled an entirely new dimension of artistic appreciation. As Australia’s oldest and most-visited art museum, the NGV did not disappoint. The entrance alone—a mesmerizing water wall, where liquid cascades gracefully down a sleek marble surface—was a masterpiece in itself, offering a serene yet thrilling welcome. Stepping inside, I was awestruck by the grand hall, adorned with a giant yellow octopus covered in black spots and crowned by the iconic stained-glass ceiling, a signature feature of the NGV.
As I wandered through the galleries, I longed for more time to absorb every brushstroke, every detail of the masterpieces surrounding me. Never did I imagine standing before the works of legends like:
- Rembrandt (Dutch Baroque master, famed for The Night Watch and haunting self-portraits),
- Pablo Picasso (Spanish pioneer of Cubism, creator of Guernica and Les Demoiselles d’Avignon),
- Claude Monet (French Impressionist, whose Water Lilies series redefined light in art),
- Andy Warhol (American pop art icon, known for Campbell’s Soup Cans and Marilyn Monroe silkscreens).
From 19th-century European classics to bold contemporary Australian and Aboriginal works, the gallery was a symphony of creativity.
And the best part? Admission was free. Thank you, Melbourne, for an unforgettable journey through art.
