MONA

About MONA

The Moorilla Museum of Antiquities, founded in 2001 by Tasmanian millionaire David Walsh, was closed in 2006 to undergo extensive renovations worth a staggering $75 million. The result was the birth of MONA, a new and exciting space for exhibiting modern and contemporary art. The official opening of MONA took place on 21 January 2011, alongside the third MOFO festival. 1,350 special guests attended the grand occasion, while 2,500 members of the public joined in the festivities by participating in a random ballot process. The evening event included impressive performances by bands such as The Cruel Sea, Health, and Wire, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

The MONA museum is a treasure trove of artistic works, housing over 1,900 pieces from David Walsh’s private collection. Its inaugural exhibition, Monanism, boasted an impressive array of art, including Australia’s largest modernist artwork, Sydney Nolan’s Snake mural, which was publicly displayed for the first time in Australia. Visitors are also treated to the fascinating display of Wim Delvoye’s Cloaca Professional, a machine that mimics the human digestive system by turning food into faeces and expelling it daily. Additionally, Stephen Shanabrook’s On the Road to Heaven, the Highway to hell, made of dark chocolate, is a haunting masterpiece that immortalizes the remains of a suicide bomber. Finally, Chris Ofili’s work showcased in the museum is a testament to his artistic prowess and a true sight to behold. The MONA museum is a must-visit for art enthusiasts seeking a unique and thought-provoking experience.

What to do at MONA

Mona, the Museum of Old and New Art, offers a unique way to engage with art. Located along the river from Hobart, this museum features the $110m private art and antiquities collection of David Walsh. The subterranean architecture adds to the appeal of Mona. It also hosts a busy exhibitions program, which means visitors are treated to a constantly changing show of art. Mona is not just about art; it offers much more, including the Moorilla winery, two restaurants, several bars, accommodation pavilions, and Moo Brew, an off-site brewery. Two festivals are also held here, adding an extra layer of excitement to this fascinating and dynamic venue. Mona is a place where visitors can truly engage with art and have fun while doing so.

As the seasons shift and the cooler months approach, Tasmania’s vibrant art scene comes to life with the launch of our annual winter festivals. At Mona, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse range of events that showcase the best of what Hobart has to offer. Our summer festival, Mona Foma, combines a unique blend of music and art. In contrast, our Dark Mofo winter festival explores the mystique of traditional winter solstice rituals through immersive installations, performances and exhibits. Our location in Berriedale is just a short drive from Hobart’s bustling centre, or for those looking to add some adventure to their journey, our fast ferries offer a scenic 25-minute ride from Brooke Street Pier in Salamanca. Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or just looking to experience something new and exciting, Mona’s winter festivals are not to be missed.