MONA

About MONA

The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is located in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia. It was officially opened to the public on January 21, 2011. MONA was founded by David Walsh, an Australian mathematician, entrepreneur, and art collector. It is privately owned and operated, and it is one of the largest privately funded museums in the Southern Hemisphere.

MONA is situated within the Moorilla Estate, a winery on the banks of the River Derwent. The museum is known for its unique architectural design, with most of its galleries located underground. The complex covers an area of approximately 6,000 square meters and features a diverse collection of contemporary and ancient art. MONA aims to challenge traditional museum conventions and offers a refreshing and unconventional approach to displaying and experiencing art.

What To Do At MONA

Visitors to MONA can explore the museum’s extensive collection, which includes over 1,900 works of art. The collection spans various mediums, including painting, sculpture, installation, and new media art. MONA features both contemporary and ancient artworks, with pieces from renowned artists such as Sidney Nolan, James Turrell, and Marina Abramović. The museum also houses one of the largest collections of Australian Aboriginal art in the world.

One of the unique features of MONA is its use of technology to enhance the visitor experience. Each visitor is given a device called the “O,” which acts as a personalised guide. The “O” provides artwork information, including artist biographies, commentary, and additional multimedia content. It also allows visitors to rate the artwork and share their opinions. This interactive approach encourages active engagement and dialogue with the art. In addition to the permanent collection, MONA hosts temporary exhibitions and installations throughout the year. These exhibitions often showcase emerging artists and explore contemporary social and cultural themes. The museum also features a range of events, including live music performances, film screenings, and talks by artists, curators, and scholars.