A Beginner’s Guide to Exploring the MONA (Museum of Old and New Art)

Unlocking Hobart’s Artistic Enigma: Your First Visit to MONA

So, you’re heading to Hobart and the legendary MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) is on your radar. Excellent choice! But perhaps you’ve heard whispers of its unconventional nature, its subterranean depths, and its tendency to challenge perceptions. Fear not, intrepid art explorer! This beginner’s guide is your key to navigating this extraordinary institution and making the most of your first encounter with Tasmania’s most talked-about attraction.

Before You Arrive: Planning Your MONA Adventure

MONA isn’t your typical gallery. Forget white walls and hushed reverence. It’s an experience, and a little preparation goes a long way. Firstly, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. MONA operates on a timed entry system to manage visitor flow, and you wouldn’t want to miss out.

Consider how you’ll get there. The most iconic way to arrive is via the MONA Roma ferry from the Hobart waterfront. It’s not just transport; it’s part of the experience, offering stunning harbour views and a dramatic introduction to the museum’s waterfront location. Alternatively, a short drive or taxi ride will also get you there.

Download the MONA app before you go. This is crucial! The app acts as your guide, providing context and information about the artworks, often with a playful and irreverent tone that’s quintessentially MONA. It’s your digital companion, allowing you to explore at your own pace and delve deeper into what you’re seeing.

Descending into the Depths: What to Expect Inside

Prepare to go underground. MONA is famously built into the side of a cliff, with much of its exhibition space located beneath ground level. This unique architecture immediately sets a different tone. The journey down is part of the reveal, with dimly lit corridors and unexpected openings.

Don’t expect a linear path or a chronological display. MONA’s exhibitions are curated thematically, often juxtaposing ancient artefacts with cutting-edge contemporary art. This is where the ‘Old and New’ in its name truly comes alive. You might find yourself standing before a Roman sculpture one moment and a thought-provoking digital installation the next. Embrace the unexpected!

Must-See (and Must-Experience) Highlights for First-Timers

While MONA encourages personal discovery, there are a few iconic pieces that often leave a lasting impression:

• ‘Cloaca’ by Wim Delvoye: This is perhaps MONA’s most infamous and talked-about artwork. It’s a working ‘poo machine’ that simulates the human digestive system. Yes, you read that right. It’s confronting, humorous, and undeniably memorable. Be prepared for the smell!
• ‘Untitled’ (2009) by Mona Hatoum: This powerful installation uses a grid of cages, some containing hair, to evoke feelings of confinement and vulnerability. It’s a stark and moving piece that invites reflection.
• The ‘mummies’: MONA houses ancient Egyptian mummies, presented with the same contemporary sensibility as its modern art. The juxtaposition is striking and offers a different perspective on mortality and preservation.

Beyond these specific works, keep an eye out for the many interactive installations, the thought-provoking video art, and the sheer diversity of materials and concepts on display. MONA isn’t afraid to be provocative, challenging, or even a little bit weird. That’s its charm.

Beyond the Art: Dining and Drinks

Your MONA experience doesn’t end with the art. The museum boasts excellent dining options. The Source offers a more formal dining experience with stunning views, while the casual MONA Café is perfect for a quick bite or a coffee. Enjoying a meal or a drink with the Derwent River as your backdrop is a delightful way to round off your visit.

Embrace the MONA Mindset

The most important piece of advice for a beginner at MONA is to approach it with an open mind and a sense of curiosity. Don’t try to ‘understand’ everything in a traditional sense. Instead, let the art provoke a reaction, spark a conversation, or simply make you think. MONA is a place for discovery, for questioning, and for experiencing art in a way you might never have before. So, dive in, explore, and let the enigmatic MONA work its magic on you.