Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) has become a destination for art lovers worldwide. Located in Hobart, Tasmania, this unique museum showcases a wide range of artwork from antiquity to the present day. From ancient Greek statues to the latest contemporary installations, MONA has something for everyone. As well as rotating exhibitions, this institution also houses a gallery, cafe and restaurant, and offers a range of activities for visitors. In this blog, we explore some interesting facts and information about MONA, and offer some travel tips for those planning a visit. Read on to discover more about this incredible museum and what experiences await you there.

Interesting Facts About Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)

1. MONA is the world’s first privately-funded museum, built by millionaire David Walsh.

2. The museum is built in an old disused Montey-style sandstone quarry and only open to the public since January 2011.

3. It holds the world’s largest private collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts.

4. MONA exhibits a diverse range of art from ancient history to modern works, including pieces from Picasso, Warhol and Dali.

5. In 2013, MONA created the world’s first interactive art gig.

6. In 2018 it opened “Dark Mofo”, a mid-winter festival of art, music and culture that has become Australia’s largest winter festival.

7. The museum has its own brewery, winery, restaurant and cellar door.

8. Guided tours and interpretive talks help visitors gain deeper insights on the art works and the artist.

9. To enhance the art viewing experience, MONA has a dedicated app that provides audio tours of every exhibition.

10. MONA’s landscape is now home to a flock of sheep and grazing alpacas.

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History & Information About Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)

The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is a public art museum located in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia. It is the largest privately funded museum in Australia and one of the largest art museums in the Southern Hemisphere. It was established in 2011 by the professional gambler and art collector David Walsh.

MONA’s collection features works from antiquity to present day, across a range of media, and predominantly focuses on contemporary art, modern art and photography. In addition to Walsh’s own collection, a number of works have been purchased over the years from elsewhere. Works by artists such as Marina Abramović, Jesus Rafael Soto, James Turrell, Mona Hatoum, Mark Rothko, and Pablo Picasso are featured. The museum also exhibits archaeological artifacts such as Egyptian mummies, terracotta figurines, and ancient coins.

MONA has also commissioned many new works, including performance-based installation art. The museum is also home to the Moorilla winery and brewery, encompassing a restaurant, cellar door, and cafe, all stocked with Tasmanian produce. The museum also offers educational programs for children and adults, as well as day and evening events, lectures, and workshops.

The premises of MONA previously housed the Moorilla Winery, and the museum’s construction was the largest redevelopment of the site since 1948. This redevelopment includes restoration to the pre-existing vineyards, landscaped gardens, and a ‘Museum Store’, in addition to the art museum and function centre. MONA has been widely praised in the international art world and won multiple awards since its opening, including four Australian Tourism Award and two National Landscape Award.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)

Introduction:

The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) located in Hobart, Tasmania is a unique destination for art and culture lovers. It showcases a stunning collection of local and international artwork spanning from the ancient world to the present day. MONA offers fascinating exhibitions, educational experiences and immersive events that are sure to leave visitors in awe. With so much to take in, planning a trip to MONA can seem quite overwhelming. To help make your visit go smoothly, here’s a travel guide for visiting MONA.

Getting There:

MONA can easily be accessed by car or public transport. If travelling from the mainland, ferries depart from Melbourne to Devonport on most days. From there, you can catch a bus, train or shuttle to reach the museum in Hobart. It’s also possible to fly directly from the mainland to Hobart Airport, then transfer to MONA via car or bus.

Where to Stay:

There are plenty of accommodation options available near MONA. One of the closest and most popular choices is The Hobart Showground, located just a short drive away. There are several camping and caravan sites, as well as comfortable luxury cabins for those looking to stay a little closer to the action. For those wishing for something more central, the city centre of Hobart is only 12 minutes away.

What to See and Do:

During your visit to MONA, there is plenty of things to do and see. Be sure to take in the unique exhibitions on display and admire the amazing views of the Derwent River from the resort’s terrace. Don’t miss out on the many interactive experiences, such as the virtual reality paintings and digital galleries. For a truly unforgettable experience, grab a seat at the MOFO Music Festival, a three-day event with live music, theatre shows and visual art.

Concluding Thoughts:

The Museum of Old and New Art is a must-see destination for art lovers visiting Hobart and Tasmania. From its stunning exhibitions to its dynamic events, MONA is sure to send a tingle down your spine as you relish in its wonders. With such an array of things to do, planning your trip to MONA need not be a headache. Follow this guide to ensure you make the most of your time spent admiring its eclectic art collection.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)

Q: What type of artwork is displayed at MONA?

A: MONA is home to a range of artwork including painting, sculpture, textiles, photography, video, sound, and installation. There are also contemporary and historical works from around the world.

Q: What days and hours is MONA open?

A: MONA is open 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM each day with the exception of Good Friday and Christmas Day.

Q: Does MONA offer guided tours?

A: Yes, MONA provides a range of guided tours and experiences to help visitors learn more about the art and the gallery.

Q: Is there an admission fee to visit MONA?

A: Yes, an admission fee is applicable for adults and seniors. Children (12 and under) are free.

Q: Is there an onsite cafe?

A: Yes, The Source cafe is open 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM daily for morning tea, lunch, tea, coffee, and cake.

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