The National Gallery of Victoria has launched its most ambitious exhibition to date, with works from more than 100 artists from 32 countries now on show as part of the NGV Triennial.
Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley today celebrated the launch of the landmark exhibition, which showcases contemporary art, design and architecture from around the world.
Exclusive to Melbourne and backed by the Andrews Labor Government, Triennial has transformed all four levels of NGV International with works that range from 3D printing and robotics to performance, film, painting, drawing, fashion design, tapestry and sculpture.
Never-before-seen large-scale works have been specially commissioned for the exhibition – including a monumental installation by Australian sculptor Ron Mueck that stretches across an entire gallery and weighs close to five tonnes.
The exhibition is free and accompanied by public programs offering something for all ages and tastes. It includes family activities, performances, workshops, tours, talks and forums, live music events, late night viewings and special festivals.
It rounds out a blockbuster 2017 program for the NGV that included major exhibitions from global names including David Hockney, Hokusai, Dior and Van Gogh.
As part of the Victorian Budget 2017/18, the NGV will receive a $28.7 million funding boost over the next two years to continue growing its world-class exhibitions that bring thousands of visitors to Victoria each year.
It’s part of the Labor Government’s record investment in Victoria’s creative industries, which support 220,000 jobs and generate $23 billion for Victoria – eight per cent of our state’s economy.
Triennial opens to the public this weekend, with the Gallery due to welcome its three millionth visitor for the year. The exhibition runs until Sunday, 15 April, 2018. For full program details visit
Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley
“Melbourne hasn’t seen anything like this before – it’s bold, it’s exciting and it once again cements our reputation as the creative state.”
“It’s been a bumper year for Australia’s most popular gallery. The NGV team continues to raise the bar and they’ve done it again with the inaugural NGV Triennial.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020