TarraWarra Museum of Art

TarraWarra Museum of Art is one of Australia's most significant regional art galleries, renowned for both its exceptional collection of contemporary Australian art and its award-winning architecture. Nestled in the heart of the Yarra Valley wine country, this cultural gem offers a unique blend of world-class art, spectacular architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Architectural Masterpiece

The museum building itself is a work of art, designed by acclaimed Australian architects Allan Powell and Greg Burgess. The striking structure features sweeping curved roofs that echo the surrounding hills, while extensive glass walls blur the boundaries between inside and outside, connecting the art within to the landscape beyond.

The building has received numerous architectural awards, including the RAIA Victorian Architecture Medal. Its design creates a series of interconnected spaces that flow naturally from one to another, providing perfect environments for viewing art while constantly framing views of the surrounding vineyards and valley.

The Collection

TarraWarra Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of Australian contemporary art from the 1950s to the present, with a particular focus on works that explore the relationship between art and the landscape. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, photography, and works on paper by many of Australia's most significant artists.

Key artists represented in the collection include Arthur Boyd, John Olsen, Fred Williams, Albert Tucker, and Sidney Nolan. The museum also features important works by contemporary artists such as Howard Arkley, Dale Hickey, and Peter Booth, among others.

Exhibitions and Programs

In addition to its permanent collection, TarraWarra hosts a dynamic program of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions often feature works from the collection alongside loans from other institutions and private collections, creating new contexts and dialogues between artworks.

The museum also commissions new works and site-specific installations, particularly those that respond to the unique architectural and landscape setting of the museum. Recent commissions have included large-scale installations that engage with the museum's architecture and the surrounding environment.

Education and Engagement

TarraWarra Museum of Art is committed to making art accessible to everyone through a comprehensive education program. This includes guided tours, artist talks, workshops for adults and children, and school holiday programs. The museum's education team works closely with local schools and community groups to develop meaningful engagement with contemporary art.

The museum's library and resource center provide researchers and art enthusiasts with access to books, catalogues, and archival materials related to Australian contemporary art.

The Landscape Setting

The museum is set within a 100-hectare property that includes working vineyards, native bushland, and sculptural gardens. The landscape itself is considered part of the museum experience, with walking trails that allow visitors to explore the natural environment and discover outdoor sculptures along the way.

The surrounding Yarra Valley landscape has long been a source of inspiration for Australian artists, and the museum's setting provides a direct connection between the art inside and the landscape that inspired much of it.

Architecture and Art in Harmony

One of the most remarkable aspects of TarraWarra is the way the architecture and art work together to create a unified experience. The building's design allows natural light to flood the galleries, changing throughout the day and creating different viewing conditions for the artworks.

The curved walls and varied ceiling heights create intimate spaces for contemplation as well as grand areas for large-scale works. The constant views of the landscape through the extensive glazing remind viewers of the connection between art and place that is so central to the Australian art tradition.

Events and Functions

The museum's stunning setting and world-class facilities make it an ideal venue for special events, including corporate functions, weddings, and private celebrations. The museum offers exclusive after-hours access for private events, allowing guests to experience the art and architecture in an intimate setting.

The museum's terrace provides a spectacular location for cocktail parties and outdoor events, with panoramic views of the Yarra Valley as a backdrop. The indoor spaces can accommodate everything from intimate dinners to large-scale receptions.

Planning Your Visit

TarraWarra Museum of Art is located just 20 minutes from Sanctuary House, making it an easy addition to any Yarra Valley itinerary. The museum is open Thursday to Monday, with extended hours on weekends.

Allow at least 2 hours for your visit to fully appreciate the architecture and collection. The museum offers free guided tours on weekends, which provide valuable insights into both the art and the building. The surrounding grounds are also worth exploring, with several walking trails of varying lengths.

The best time to visit is during the warmer months when you can take full advantage of the outdoor spaces and the connection between architecture and landscape. The museum also hosts special events during winter, creating a cozy atmosphere for art appreciation.