NGV International

I've wanted to visit the galleries in Melbourne and enjoy the art and culture that the city has to offer. Today I decided to go to the city and visit NGV International. I took a train and got off at the Flinders Street Station. There are 2 NGVs, one is the NGV Australia which is across the street from the station on Federation Square. The other one is NGV International which is about 10 minutes walk across the Yarra river. It is located next to the Arts Centre and across the street from the NGV is the Queen Victoria Gardens. Since it is now autumn, the garden was filled with brown and orange hues.





NGV International has several permanent display exhibitions which are free and temporary exhibitions which sometimes charge admission fee. The admission ranges from $15 - $30, depending on the exhibition. After browsing through the current and future exhibitions, I saw a few which I definitely want to see, so I decided to become an NGV member. Becoming a member provides discount up to 50% off the admission fees and also free previews at certain dates. I also get one free ticket which I can use for any of the exhibitions. On top of that I get free magazines from the gallery, an orientation tour for both NGV, discounts at the gift shops, restaurant and cafes, and access to the NGV member's lounge. The benefits apply to both NGV International and NGV Australia. Since I'm a full time student I have to pay only $50 for a year membership instead of the individual fee which is $90.







After setting up my membership, I proceeded to the exhibition on the ground level. The first one is the Love, Loss and Intimacy which I thought was interesting. I found some of the pieces were lovely and pure but there are a number which I thought were quite disturbing. Then I went in search for the European exhibitions. There was one on Level 1 and another two on Level 2. I managed to browse through two of them this morning, and I must say my favourite is the European exhibition for 17th and 18th centuries on Level 2. There were a few pieces by Rembrandt on display which were stunning. I also had a chance to view a special exhibition entitled 'Drape' by Myer which was on fashion and textile. Beautiful gowns by Christion Dior, Dolce n Gabbana and other famous designers were on display.





After a few hours walking through the gallery, I was tired and needed to take a break. I went to the members lounge to rest and relax before heading back to Bundoora. The members lounge is located on the ground level at a secluded area at the end of the gallery. It is tastefully decorated with paintings adorning the walls. It’s very quiet which makes it a perfect place to unwind after enjoying a long day at the gallery. Members can read magazine and newspaper while enjoying tea or coffee with some biscuits. I made myself a cup of cappuccino which was very lovely that I decided to have a second cup while I browse through a magazine. I did truly enjoy myself and looking forward to my next visit to NGV.

An Autumn Morning at Fitzroy Gardens

Since it was Good Friday, we decided to go to the city knowing that it's going to be deserted. We drove to Preston and went on the train to Fitzroy Garden near the Jolimont Station. Zade was very excited to ride the train again. He was full of energy, and as soon as we got to the garden he ran and ran especially when he saw birds flying low wit the hope of catching one. It was such a beautiful autumn morning. The garden was quiet and peaceful that we were able to relax and enjoy its beauty.

Morning Tea at Toddler's Room

Took some time off work for the annual Easter morning tea at Numdaji Kwei. There were not many parents, most were grandparents. Zade spent the morning making some bunny faces and showed me around the toddler's room. His favourites were the big bears, which according to him were Humprey' papa and mama. And of course we had some yummy hot cross bun. Before heading home, we made a stop at Westfield and played at the outdoor playground. Then we had to rush to get some books at the Mill Park library since I had to go back to the office for an appointment in the afternoon. Maybe next week I'll get to spend a whole day out with Zade.