Museum of Old and New Art
By Chris Borton
My last visit to Tasmania was about 15 years ago when I would have to characterise it as slightly on the sleepy side! Since the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) opened, Hobart has been on my bucket list and I ticked it off last week. What a transformation! The biggest events in Tasmania were once the occasional cricket test and the annual Sydney to Hobart yacht race. Now to these sporting highlights has been added the essential cultural ingredient of any world city in the shape of MONA.
MONA makes its presence felt soon after your arrival in Hobart by having ferries used to transport visitors to the museum from Hobart present at the docks. The fact that these large ferries are dressed in camouflage paint makes them stand out rather than disguising them. I boarded the larger of the two ferries with a keen sense of anticipation for the 30 minute trip up the Derwent River to the museum.
The impact is immediate as you approach MONA from the water. It stands like a monolith on a cliff overlooking the river and surrounding valley. However, as you approach the entrance after landing, it quickly becomes clear that the structure has largely been excavated into the underlying rock and is subterranean. These subterranean galleries focus the attention on the art which is eclectic and fascinating. There are ancient Eygytian panels and Sidney Nolan paintings jostling side by side with modern artefacts such as a Porsche sports car encased in inflatable cushions like external air bags designed by Andy Warhol. The (in)famous “pooh” machine was closed for renovation when I was there, presumably a colonoscopy ( we all might need one of those sometime!). As it apparently comes with full olfactory effects, I was happy to leave this for another time.
The subterrranean galleries are punctuated by tunnels leading to towers with windows opening to the vista of river and valley and containing a highlighted work of art.
MONA GALLERIES
Having spared my nostrils the effects of the pooh machine I was ready to taste some wine and food. Mona is built within the Moorilla Winery and Brewery and the gallery has a restaurant called The Source which I highly recommend. The views, the food and the service complement the beautiful wines and beers on offer. For a less formal eating experience, there are cafeterias and bars to cater for every need.
CULINARY DELIGHTS
For those overwhelmed by art, alcohol and food or those just wishing to prolong their MONA experience there is accomodation on site.
Hobart is also buzzing with excellent restaurants and hotels. The Salamanca markets are bigger and better than ever. And, of course, no visit to Hobart is complete without a trip to the summit of Mount Wellington to admire the view, if the skies are clear!
Hobart has become a destination and MONA has helped to put it on the map.
CHRISTOPHER BORTON