Mad MONA

Another aspect of Hobart is MONA, now, this is not the children’s cartoon caricature, no, it’s the Museum of Old and New Art. It was started by David Walsh as he attempted to put back into society after he had made millions at gambling and wine making. The museum is quite a way up the Derwent estuary, so Dave W has booked us on the ferry to MONA, unknown to us he’s booked us in the Posh Pit. What a great idea, turn left as you get on the cat, sit in a comfy leather seat and drink bubbles while eating canapes, awesome.

X-Rays but what's the subject!

Cement mixer on low loader

The river approach is the best way to get your first view of the museum, along with the magnificent views along the Derwent and of the houses overlooking the river. There are 99 steps up to the museum entrance and the first exhibit visible is a low loader with a cement mixer on the back, but it’s made from galvanised filigree metal. 

The prism house

There’s also a prism house and a filigree metal chapel. As we enter the museum, we’re given a programmed iphone which tells us about each of the art works, its artist and as it says “art wank" the collection is huge and varied, Dave and Toni do a great job navigating us through the floors, which incidentally are underground, and corridors to see all the exhibits. The art ranges through every medium imaginable, paint, electromagnetic, water, metal, air, sound and light. It’s all very mind blowing and, in my case induces an attack of vertigo in the blue light tunnel!!

Water and metal beads connected to internet search

Live subject with tattoo art

Back on the ferry in the posh pit, more bubbles and canapes before a stroll back to our “pod” for a bit of washing, packing and relaxation before a final evening meal together at Peacock and Jones. 
The restaurant is warm and intimate with a floating gas fire in the centre of the room, lots of wood and leather comfy chairs. The meal and wine are equally impressive with heritage tomatoes and olive tapenade to start and Lamb with Farro, roasted vegetables and feta to follow. Good food, good wine and the most important ingredient in any day good company makes for another perfect day.