Melbourne: Australia-“RS” Last Day
National Art Gallery
Today was a remarkable experience with Road Scholar as we delved into the rich tapestry of aboriginal art at the Melbourne National Gallery of Art. Our day started out with an hour-long lecture, led by a former head of the gallery, offering us unique insights and a deep appreciation for the intricate stories woven into each piece. Her passion and knowledge truly brought the artwork to life, making it an unforgettable part of our journey. This is just one of the many reasons to choose Road Scholar as your travel guide—each day is filled with learning opportunities that enhance your understanding of the world around us.
After the lecture, we walked the few blocks to the gallery where she gave us a highlights tour. She paused in front of a striking aboriginal piece, explaining the artist's innovative use of texture, and then moved on to a stunning landscape, sharing the story behind its creation. Her passion for art was infectious, and it made the experience all the more enriching. I hope you enjoy the art as much as we did.
Public Library
After visiting the National Gallery, we stopped by the city library, a place I had often heard was filled with great imagery. The Melbourne Library, officially the State Library Victoria, certainly lived up to its reputation.
The architecture of the library, with its grand design and stunning details, adds another layer of awe, making it a memorable stop on our adventure. The desks are original from its 1856 opening. Looking down, Karen was determined to sit at those iconic seats imagining all the other occupants. For her, reading is one of those life skills that can never be underestimated.
Ned Kelly
Upon entering, we were immediately struck by Ned Kelly's iconic suit of armor, meticulously crafted from plow blades, which stands as a key exhibit within the library. This piece of history has become emblematic of Australian heritage, reminiscent of a local legend akin to Billy the Kid. Ned and his gang of bushrangers went on a crime spree including the murder of 3 policemen. He crafted the suit of armor in an attempt to survive a shootout with the police. He became a cultural icon, though there are 2 camps of cultural thought - one he is remembered as a Robin Hood-like figure, the other he is a terrorist and a villian.
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Victoria Market
After taking in the stunning architecture and the serene atmosphere of the library, we made our way to the vibrant Victoria Market. Markets are always a great feast for the eye of the camera, and hopefully something to eat as well. We settled down for a delightful lunch, savoring a mix of local delicacies while getting in a solid dose of people watching.
One of the delightful traditions we began on our travels was collecting finger puppets. At a quaint stall, a charming lady showcased an array of adorable finger puppets. And of course we would never go overboard — not us!? By the end of our journey, our collection boasted around 40 different animals and characters, each symbolizing our adventures in Australia, New Zealand, and the enchanting South Pacific Islands. These little puppets are more than just keepsakes; they will remind us of our memories and stories from our globetrotting escapades! Our two grandsons are going to love them..!
