While the NGV is best known for its roster of blockbuster exhibitions, it’s also home to one of the world’s most impressive collections
Since it was founded in 1861, the National Gallery of Victoria has been busy amassing the best art from Australia and all across the world. Now, after a century and a half of collecting, the gallery has arguably the country's most significant collection of art, ranging from milestone European works from every major artistic movement to contemporary masterpieces by Australia's finest.
We asked the NGV's curatorial team to pick five works that Melburnians should familiarise themselves with, from across the collection's whole spectrum. You can see them at both of the gallery's major spaces: NGV International on St Kilda Road and NGV Australia at Federation Square.
Where you can see it: Lvl 2, NGV International.
Why it matters: Françoise Gilot was a leading figure in the mid-20th century Parisian art scene. This was the first work from the significant 'School of Paris' to enter the NGV collection.
Where you can see it: Lvl 2, NGV International.
Why it matters: This was the first impressionist work purchased by the NGV (in 1907). At this time, it was one of the first impressionist works purchased by a museum anywhere in the world.
Where you can see it: Lvl 2, NGV International.
Why it matters: Giambattista Tiepolo is regarded as one of the leading 18th-century painters and ‘The Banquet of Cleopatra’ is considered to be his masterpiece. The painting is physically impressive in terms of both its scale and its vivid colour, and has long been a favourite among the millions of people who visit the NGV.
Where you can see it: Level 3 foyer
Why it matters: The work exemplifies Brontë’s art, which deals with women's empowerment and Indigenous stories. This emerging contemporary artist works across photography, textiles and video.
Where you can see it: Lvl 2, NGV International.
Why it matters: Among the first professional female painters and businesswomen of her time, Mary Beale was highly successful among nobility and was able to support her family through her work.
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