MONA: Tasmania's World-famous Museum
An Introduction to MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art
Nestled in the heart of Hobart, Tasmania, the Museum of Old and New Art, universally renowned as MONA, is not merely a museum. It is an enchanting blend of old and new art, where the artistic legacy of the past coalesces seamlessly with the avant-garde innovations of contemporary artwork. Founded by the prolific art collector, David Walsh, MONA is not just Australia’s largest privately-owned museum but also a stirring emblem of both modern and contemporary art.
Situated on the picturesque Berriedale Peninsula in Hobart, MONA tantalizingly entwines antiquity with modernity, fostering a unique environment where ancient and modern art dialogue in harmonious resonance. Located at 655 Main Road, Berridale, it opened its doors for the first time on 21 January 2011 and has since been a sanctuary where the spectacles of history and contemporaneity coexist. David Walsh’s vision was not merely to curate art but to create a multidimensional space where every visitor becomes a part of an immersive aesthetic journey.
The architectural splendour of MONA is rivalled by few. Venturing through the spiral staircase, visitors delve into an underground wonderland that intricately mingles art and antiquities from diverse epochs. The subterranean architectural style not only preserves the heritage setting of the museum but also ingeniously enhances the mystique and allure of exploring art in an almost otherworldly setting.
Within this singular structure, the private collection of everything from ancient coins to the avant-garde contemporary exhibits resonates with Walsh’s idiosyncratic approach to art curation. The layout, devoid of conventional chronological order, invites visitors to “choose your own adventure,” navigating through the expansive art collection at their own pace and predilection.
When you step into MONA, it's like a journey through time where antiquity and the modern era dance in a harmonious ballet. From the ancient relics of bygone civilizations to the artworks that challenge contemporary perspectives, MONA isn’t merely a museum; it's a nexus where timelines converge. Here, the historical artifacts don't just whisper tales of the past; they converse with contemporary pieces, creating a dialogue that spans millennia. Pieces from David Walsh’s vast collection invite contemplation about civilization, culture, and the role of art and artists across eras.
Contrastingly, the contemporary artworks delve into themes that resonate with the present, sometimes controversial and always thought-provoking. Here, the "sex and death" gallery unfurls the raw, visceral tapestry of human experience. With exhibits that range from the darkly alluring to the unsettling, MONA challenges its visitors to confront, ponder, and perhaps to understand myriad facets of humanity. Artists from diverse backgrounds find a home here, allowing for a rich, multi-faceted exploration of global contemporary art.
David Walsh, a local Tasmanian gambler-turned-art collector, envisioned MONA as a space where art was not merely observed but experienced. His private museum morphs into a realm where conventional expectations are subverted, where each exhibit is a piece of a larger, enthralling narrative.
Unlike traditional galleries, MONA doesn’t confine itself to a single narrative or era. With the aid of "The O" - an innovative device provided to visitors - the museum morphs into a personalized journey where one can explore artifacts and art without dictated paths, hence providing a "choose your own adventure" experience.
MONA isn’t just renowned for its static exhibitions. Through events like Dark Mofo and MONA FOMA, it transmutes into a vibrant, dynamic entity that celebrates art in its myriad forms. Dark Mofo, a festival that intertwines art, music, and Tasmania's enigmatic winter, embraces centuries-old winter solstice rituals while submerging attendees into Walsh’s intriguingly dark and enigmatic universe.
Moving through MONA, installations such as the famous Cloaca, nicknamed the "poop machine," which replicates the human digestive system, invite both awe and contemplation about art, science, and the human body. Another iconic piece is the vast installation by James Turrell, which subtly shifts, challenging our perceptions of light and space.
The adventure to MONA starts with the journey there itself, especially if you choose to embark via the ferry from Brooke Street Pier. Gliding along the Derwent River, visitors are treated to the natural splendour of Hobart before arriving at the modern, somewhat subversive beauty of the museum. Those wanting a splash of luxury can opt for the Posh Pit, ensuring an elegant start to an eclectic day out. Alternately, a road journey through the picturesque landscapes of Tasmania provides its own terrestrial delights.
Stepping into MONA, you're gently nudged to abandon expectations and immerse yourself in the unconventional. An entry fee of $38 for adults offers (look here for further information on pricing) access to a realm where art transcends time and space. Membership, termed as 'Eternity Membership', includes lifetime free admission and earns members the intriguing right to be cremated and have their remains housed in the MONA cemetery upon passing.
For those wanting to extend their experience, MONA’s accommodation pavilions offer a luxurious stay, offering breathtaking views of the Derwent and allowing more time to explore. Meanwhile, gastronomes will find delight in the Source Restaurant, where exquisite cuisines meet aesthetic brilliance.
MONA, David Walsh’s enigmatic, captivating art gallery on the Berriedale peninsula in Hobart, isn’t merely a destination; it’s an experience, an adventure, and for some, a pilgrimage. From its subterranean depths where antiquity converses with modernity, to its electrifying festivals where Tasmanians and international visitors alike bask in a vibrant melange of music and art, MONA has crafted not just a repository of art but a cultural epicentre that transcends the conventional boundaries of museums.
It's a space where every step through the intricately designed spaces, from spiralling staircases to its architecturally spectacular pavilions, is a step through David Walsh’s imagination, filtered through the myriad perspectives of artists from across the globe and through time. Whether it's love or perplexity that visitors feel navigating through the exhibits, MONA undeniably leaves an indelible mark, prompting reflections on art, humanity, and the ineffable beauty of expression.
Is Mona Hobart worth a visit?
Absolutely, MONA in Hobart is not just a museum; it's an immersive experience that combines art, culture, and a dash of the unexpected to offer something genuinely unique. The diversity in its art collection, the innovative use of space, and the intertwining of old and new art forms promise a visit that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. Whether you’re an art aficionado, a casual observer, or simply looking to explore the treasures of Tasmania, MONA provides a rich, multilayered experience that is definitively worth a visit.
Why is Mona controversial?
MONA has earned its controversial status through its bold, unapologetic exploration of themes that are often considered taboo or challenging. Exhibits exploring sex, death, and everything in between push visitors to confront and reflect upon aspects of human nature and experience that are frequently sidestepped in conventional galleries. The museum doesn’t shy away from presenting artworks and installations that provoke thought, evoke strong emotions, and challenge traditional norms and perspectives.
What does Mona in Tasmania stand for?
In the context of Tasmania, MONA refers to the Museum of Old and New Art. Situated in Hobart, it stands as a testament to the vision of founder David Walsh, offering a space where ancient and contemporary art converge, creating a unique narrative that bridges times, cultures, and artistic expressions. The museum is renowned not only for its wide-ranging collection but also for its avant-garde approach to exhibition, seeking to engage, challenge, and captivate every visitor that steps into its uniquely designed space.
Is MONA family-friendly?
Yes, MONA is family-friendly but comes with some caveats due to its diverse and provocative exhibitions. The museum hosts a plethora of artworks that explore various themes, some of which delve into adult and controversial subjects such as sex and death. Hence, while families are welcome and children under 18 enter for free, parents should be mindful of the explicit content within certain exhibits. The use of "The O" device, which provides information about artworks as you move through the museum, allows families to navigate and select suitable exhibits for all members to enjoy. Moreover, the vast estate with its outdoor installations, scenic surroundings, and eateries can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. It's a place where curiosity is piqued and where art, in its myriad forms, can be appreciated by young and old alike—each in their own unique way.