Covid and the Melbourne Triennial

'The NGV Triennial brings contemporary art, design and architecture into dialogue, offering a visually arresting and thought-provoking view of the world at this time. Featuring major new commissions and recent works that span geography, perspective and genre, the exhibition celebrates the work of some of the world’s most accomplished artists and designers, while also giving voice to emerging practitioners'.

                                                                              Quote from the NGV website

We hadn't been to Melbourne for nearly two years so when a small window of opportunity came up in April to see the Triennial at the National Gallery of Victoria we made a day trip. We spent more time travelling to and from the city than we spent in Melbourne but it was worth it.

Covid rules were still in place; we had to book free tickets in advance so that numbers entering could be controlled, the 1.5 metre social distancing rule applied and masks were highly recommended.

Once inside the NGV all thoughts of our troubled world outside were forgotten; washed away by amazing art, colour, texture, imagination.

As I am writing this two months after the visit I will not be able to credit the works I post but be assured that it was spectacular. Electronics, ancient religious art, film & video, whole room experiences, some old masters and some new masterpieces in the making, political comment, fashion, electronics, environmental works, beauty & passion.

Ever changing and overlapping the frame

The changing light in the portrait room was amazing, stars, birds flying around the room, a thunder storm!

Quite a lot of these works had movement involved so something is lost in a static photo, but still a photo reminds me of the incredible creativity of so many people.

After several hours in the gallery we headed for a late lunch before driving home. Lunch out was a rare treat so we headed to Lygon Street Carlton to one of our favourite casual places to eat.

Pasta and a glass of Italian red rounded the day out nicely. We felt the stress of the long lock-down slide away from us as we reminisced on the various works that we had seen. A few treasured hours!