Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) | Hobart

MONA – Museum of Old and New Art is a world-renowned art museum located in Hobart, the capital city of Tasmania, Australia. Known for its bold, provocative exhibitions and unique architecture, MONA is one of the most visited and talked-about art museums in Australia. The museum is home to an impressive collection that spans from ancient artifacts to contemporary art, offering a mix of the old and new that challenges the way we think about art.

1. Overview and Location

Location: MONA is situated on the Berriedale Peninsula, just outside Hobart, and is easily accessible from the city center. The museum is set in a picturesque location overlooking the Derwent River, providing a stunning backdrop for visitors.

Architecture: The museum was designed by David Walsh, the museum's founder, and architect Nonda Katsalidis. The building itself is an architectural marvel, with a subterranean design that makes use of the natural landscape. The museum is built into the hillside, with galleries extending deep into the earth, creating a dramatic and immersive experience for visitors.

Opening Hours: MONA is open daily (except for some holidays) and has specific opening hours, usually from late morning to early evening. It's advisable to check the official website for current operating times.

2. Museum Collection

MONA’s collection is a mixture of both ancient and modern art, with a particular focus on works that challenge conventional boundaries. The collection spans a variety of mediums, including paintings, sculpture, installations, and video art. The museum is famous for its unconventional, and often controversial exhibitions, which regularly push the limits of what is considered acceptable in the art world.

Old Art: While MONA is known for its contemporary pieces, it also houses a notable collection of ancient and classical art, including pieces from Egypt, Greece, Rome, and the Mediterranean. These works often act as counterpoints to the more modern pieces, creating intriguing dialogues between the past and the present.

New Art: MONA’s collection of contemporary art is what has truly put the museum on the map. It includes works from prominent and emerging artists from around the world, focusing on interactive, immersive experiences. The collection includes performance art, video installations, and highly conceptual works that engage with political, philosophical, and cultural themes.

Notable Works and Artists: Some of the most famous pieces in MONA’s collection include “The Great Ocean of Truth” by Adrian Villar Rojas, “Cloaca Professional” (a working sculpture by Wim Delvoye that mimics the digestive process), and “The King’s Stomach” by Leon Golub. The museum also houses works by prominent artists such as Damien Hirst, Jeff Koons, and Matthew Barney.

3. Experiences and Exhibitions

The Museum Experience: MONA’s exhibitions are designed to engage visitors in a multi-sensory experience. The museum uses an innovative system called ‘O’ – a handheld device that provides visitors with information about the artworks as they move through the galleries. The system offers audio commentary, artist bios, and detailed descriptions of the pieces, making the experience more interactive and personalized.

Rotating Exhibitions: The museum regularly updates its exhibits, bringing in new works and temporary exhibitions that keep the museum experience fresh. MONA often hosts international artists, as well as showcasing work from local Tasmanian artists. The exhibitions cover a wide range of themes, from political commentary to personal narratives.

Provocative Themes: MONA is known for its provocative and controversial exhibitions. It often deals with themes such as death, sex, religion, and morality. These works can be challenging and thought-provoking, sometimes pushing the boundaries of traditional art and often sparking conversation and debate among visitors.

4. MONA and Its Founder, David Walsh

David Walsh: MONA was founded by David Walsh, a Tasmanian businessman and art collector who envisioned the museum as a way to challenge the traditional art world. Walsh made his fortune in gambling and art collecting, and he created MONA as a way to showcase his eclectic and personal art collection. His vision was to make a space that was not only about art but also about creating an experience for visitors that was intellectually stimulating, accessible, and engaging.

Walsh’s Vision: The museum is deeply connected to Walsh’s own interests and philosophy. The works within the collection reflect his personal curiosities and his desire to challenge the conventions of art, culture, and society. For Walsh, art should be something that elicits an emotional and intellectual response, and MONA was designed to reflect that vision.

5. Dining and Visitor Amenities

Mona’s Restaurants and Cafes: MONA is not just about the art – the museum also offers several excellent dining options. The Mona Cafe provides a casual and relaxed dining experience with a menu that focuses on locally-sourced ingredients. The Source Restaurant is more fine-dining, offering high-end meals with stunning views over the river. For those looking to relax and unwind after exploring the galleries, there are several other food and drink options around the museum.

The Wine Experience: MONA also offers wine tasting experiences, including a selection of wines from the Mona Wine label. The museum’s cellar door allows visitors to sample wines produced in Tasmania, complementing the overall experience.

6. MONA FOMA (Festival of Music and Art)

Annual Festival: MONA hosts an annual event called MONA FOMA (Festival of Music and Art), which takes place in January. This festival combines a rich variety of performances, live music, and art installations, providing a dynamic and exciting cultural experience. The festival features a diverse range of local and international artists, and it has become a major cultural event in Hobart, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

Music, Performance Art, and More: MONA FOMA often features experimental music, performance art, and interactive art installations that push the boundaries of both art and performance. It provides a unique opportunity to experience art in a more immersive and engaging way.

7. Sculpture Garden

Sculpture Garden: Surrounding the museum is an expansive sculpture garden, which features large-scale sculptures and installations. The garden offers a serene setting with stunning views over the river and the surrounding landscape. Some of the works in the sculpture garden are integrated with the natural environment, creating a harmonious blend of art and nature.

8. Accessibility and Visitor Information

Getting There: MONA is located about 20 minutes from Hobart’s city center, and there are several transportation options available to visitors, including ferries, buses, and private vehicles. The MONA ferry is a popular way to travel to the museum, offering a scenic journey along the Derwent River.

Ticketing and Admission: MONA operates with an admission fee, though the price varies depending on the exhibitions and events. Visitors can also purchase tickets for special experiences or events such as MONA FOMA or exclusive tours.

Accessibility: MONA is accessible to visitors with disabilities, and the museum has wheelchair access, lifts, and other amenities to ensure that everyone can enjoy the exhibitions comfortably.

9. Conclusion

MONA – Museum of Old and New Art is a must-visit destination for art lovers and anyone looking for a thought-provoking, unique cultural experience. With its provocative exhibitions, cutting-edge design, and bold collections, MONA offers an immersive experience that challenges traditional notions of art and culture. Whether you're an art enthusiast or just curious to explore something new, MONA provides a captivating journey that will leave you questioning the boundaries of art and the world around us.