This summer, Melbourne’s NGV is turning up the heat with NGV Friday Nights, a spellbinding after-hours celebration of art, music and food and Yayoi Kusama.
Running for 18 weeks at NGV International, the series takes its inspiration from Yayoi Kusama, one of the world’s most iconic contemporary Japanese artists. With a kaleidoscopic combination of Kusama’s breathtaking works, live DJ performances, and expertly curated dining, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Step into Kusama’s World
At the heart of NGV Friday Nights is the highly anticipated Yayoi Kusama exhibition, the most comprehensive display of her work Australia has seen. Spanning an extraordinary eight-decade career, this blockbuster exhibition invites visitors to immerse themselves in Kusama’s vibrant visions of colour, form, and infinity.
Highlighting the exhibition are Kusama’s mesmerising infinity mirror rooms, where reflections multiply endlessly to draw you into her unique artistic dimension. Adding even more magic to these after-dark events are two standout installations. The monumental Dancing Pumpkin (2020) in Federation Court captures Kusama’s playful creativity, while the recreated installation of Narcissus Garden (1966/2024) beckons visitors to lose themselves in its hypnotic beauty.
Dining in Style – the Martin Benn Residency
If feasting with flair is your thing, then you’ll want to book a spot at the NGV Garden Restaurant. This summer, acclaimed chef Martin Benn—renowned for his innovative Asian-inspired menus—takes the reins. Famous for his time as the chef-owner of Sepia, Benn is set to deliver a stunning menu that fuses seasonal Australian ingredients with Japanese flavours. This is a culinary experience as bold and creative as Kusama’s art.
Dance to the rhythm of the Great Hall
No NGV Friday Nights would be complete without live music, and this year, the line-up is nothing short of spectacular. DJs in the Great Hall will amplify the energy with sets inspired by Kusama’s bold aesthetic. Expect electrifying performances, blending J-pop, electronic beats, and jazz-infused rhythms from artists like Dijok, Small FRY, Elle Shimada, and Tanzer.
For those looking for something truly unique, this year’s series also features two guest-curated takeovers. Asia TOPA will bring a dynamic showcase of performers from the Asia-Pacific, while Midsumma will celebrate Melbourne’s LGBTQIA+ community with a vibrant mix of music and culture.
A sensory world by Schweppes
For the first four weeks of NGV Friday Nights, Schweppes invites you to wander through Soft, a sensory installation in the NGV Garden. Sounds, scents, and Schweppes-inspired drinks come together to create a magical atmosphere designed to delight the senses. And if that’s not enough, a Schweppes pop-up bar in the Gallery Kitchen ensures you’ll never be far from refreshment.
Sip, Snack and Savour
When it comes to drinks and snacks, you’re spoilt for choice. The Moët & Chandon Champagne Bar will pour glasses of Brut Impérial and Rosé Impérial, while the Four Pillars Gin Bar serves up refreshing cocktails, including their signature G&Ts. Fancy a wine flight? The Yering Station Wine Bar offers curated selections from the Yarra Valley. For something sweet, visit the Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream Cart on the Terrace with their selection of indulgent Classic Collection Little Cups.
Prefer something savoury? The Great Hall and Gallery Kitchen will serve a Japanese-inspired menu featuring fresh, authentic flavours and street-style dishes to fuel your evening exploration.
A summer not to Miss
“NGV Friday Nights add to Melbourne’s vibrant summer nightlife,” said Steve Dimopoulos, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Event. Indeed, this series is shaping up to be a full cultural spectacle, attracting thousands of visitors to NGV International and beyond.
“It’s one of our most spectacular Friday Nights series yet,” enthused NGV Director Tony Ellwood AM. “Every week will be a high-energy celebration of the illustrious career of the iconic Japanese artist, Yayoi Kusama.”
NGV Friday Nights kicks off on 20 December 2024 and runs until 18 April 2025. The Yayoi Kusama exhibition will be on display from 15 December 2024 to 21 April 2025. Both take place at NGV International, St Kilda Road, Melbourne.
Further information and tickets are available via the NGV website (NGV.MELBOURNE). Whether you’re an art connoisseur, a foodie, or a music lover, NGV Friday Nights promises a summer filled with creativity, culture, and unforgettable memories. Don’t miss out—this is Melbourne at its vibrant best.