Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia - Gallery Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"What’s this place like? Tucked into the corner of Federation Square, NGV Australia has more than 20 individual galleries spread across three floors. The glass matrix that encases the building offers interesting city views if you ever tire of the art on display. What's inside? The collection takes you on a visual journey through the history of Australia, from European settlement to the Colonial period to Heidelberg School, and on through contemporary times. It includes paintings, photography, prints, drawings, textiles, and decorative arts. There are even pieces that represent nearby Melbourne streets: John Bracks’ "Collins Street 5pm" (1955) is incredibly popular. International visitors might be most interested in the extensive collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artifacts and art. Do they have seasonal shows? Anything to keep an eye out for? The top-floor galleries are dedicated to temporary exhibitions of all genres. The annual Top Arts show exhibits the best and most innovative work from Victoria’s best art students—this is where you come to see pieces by the stars of tomorrow. Who are our fellow museum-goers? NGV Australia offers a much calmer experience than its sister gallery, NGV International. There are school groups during the week and people passing the time on their way to meet friends, but visitors here tend to more closely resemble a typical art crowd. If we have weary feet, will we be able to make it through? Because the gallery isn’t huge, the overall floor plan is easy to navigate. There are escalators and elevators, too. Should we take a tour? Volunteers lead 50-minute tours of the collection at 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m., and 2 p.m. They’re free, and they're a great idea if you need a primer on Australian art. What's in the gift shop? Plenty to browse, including excellent books on the Australian art scene. We're looking for a bite—do we stay inside or head elsewhere? The light, bright Crossbar Café has drinks, snacks, and views of the Yarra River. Just across the Federation Square atrium from the gallery’s entry, though, is Beer Deluxe, which has burgers, pizzas, and shareable plates, plus a huge selection of local and international beers, wines, and spirits. Any other words of wisdom? Because there are no obvious big-ticket pieces on display, NGV might be a little out-there if you're not plugged into the art scene. The museum's companion app will help by imparting stories and context about some of the major works." - Carrie Hutchinson