They say that beauty lies in the eye of the beholder. In response, I’d say that there’s much to behold in Adelaide. Despite not being known – as Melbourne is – as Australia’s cultural hub, art is nevertheless ever-present in Adelaide. So whether you’re one to appreciate “high” culture, or the expression artists find in popular culture, be sure not to miss out on the visual feast all around if ever you find yourself in Adelaide!
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Art Gallery of South Australia: Avant Garde art
Bordering the city of Adelaide is North Terrace, home to the Art Gallery of South Australia. From haute sculptures by Rodin to contemporary light displays installed in the last decade, there is undoubtedly something for everyone.
Setting foot into the museum is literally embarking on a journey through time. With over 20 themed galleries, you begin by gazing upon the beauty that is classical European-style art, then enter galleries of impressionistic and pop art of this century. Walk on and take a cross-continental glimpse into Asian artworks of Indic and Sinic influence. But why would one come all the way to Australia just to see artworks from other parts of the world? Good question. In my experience from visiting art museums in the US, Europe and Asia, I’d have to say that what sets this Gallery apart is its insight to Australian history. Some of the artworks featured also depict the artists’ personal experiences in their journey to, and/or stay in, Australia. That aside, if you’re already visiting the city, why not just pop by? It’s free to enter anyway.
Art Gallery of South Australia North Terrace, Adelaide SA5000 Open Daily from 10am to 5pm Free entry
Please refer to website for periodic special exhibits (paid admission only).
Aboriginal art & culture
While the Art Gallery of South Australia does house several galleries of Aboriginal art, half of the South Australian Museum just next door has been set aside for Aboriginal art and culture. From traditionally weaved baskets to modern artistic interpretations of Aboriginal culture, explore how the first people of Australia have managed to price the aesthetic while living simply off the land.
While you’re at it, go back in time on a quick history lesson to see how Australia has evolved since the Europeans first arrived and co-existed with the Aboriginals. But don’t take my word for it: listen to the firsthand accounts of the Aboriginals interviewed to get their point of view on their daily struggles, both historical and contemporary.
South Australian Museum North Terrace, Adelaide SA5000 Open Daily from 10am to 5pm (12pm to 5pm on ANZAC Day) Closed on Good Friday & Christmas Free entry
Trashy art… literally!
If you ever see a pig rummaging through a trash can, would you consider it art?
Commissioned by the Adelaide City Council in 1999, ‘A Day Out’ features a series of bronze sculptures of pigs scaled to size. Located along Rundle Mall, Adelaide City’s shopping precinct, don’t be surprised if you notice a passerby stopping to snap a pic of a trash can – he’s photographing art! Call it trashy if you like, but truth be told, I think it’s rather cute.
Art on the street
Graffiti can be found everywhere in the world. But here in Adelaide, it’s hard to tell if something on the wall is a commissioned work of graffiti/mural art, or an act of vandalism. As I embarked on a project to capture illegal art on the streets, many works that initially appeared to be illegal paintings were in fact murals commissioned either by the City Council or building owners. Legal or not, you’ll find at least one such mural along virtually any street in the city. Even if it isn’t to your personal liking, the sheer size of it is sure to make you stop in your tracks.
A Walk To Remember
Locals dub Adelaide the 20-minute city, because you can get from one end of the city to another on foot in 20 minutes or less. So whether you’re walking across the city or walking through a museum, keep your eyes peeled to observe how time and art intersect, where history and culture collide. Best of all, it’ll cost you nothing!
History
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