NGV Friday Nights with Yayoi Kusama brings together art, music, and culinary delights from 20 December - 18 April.
Summer in Melbourne is set to dazzle as the NGV Friday Nights program brings together art, music, and culinary delights with the vibrant and iconic work of Yayoi Kusama. From 20 December to 18 April, visitors can immerse themselves in Kusama’s largest Australian exhibition to date, all after-hours, accompanied by DJs, drinks, and delectable bites.
NGV Friday Nights: Yayoi Kusama
- 6–10pm, Every Friday Night from 20 Dec–18 Apr
- Summer nights, vibrant beats and never-ending polka dots
- Tickets here
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A world-premiere exhibition
Yayoi Kusama is widely regarded as one of the most significant and influential living artists. Her eight-decade career has shaped pivotal art movements, including minimalism, pop art, and feminist art. The NGV, in collaboration with Kusama, has curated this groundbreaking exhibition exclusively for Melbourne audiences. This event not only marks the largest display of her works in Australia but also stands as one of the most comprehensive showcases of her art globally.
The exhibition is divided into two immersive parts, featuring Kusama’s signature kaleidoscopic infinity mirror rooms, playful installations of dancing pumpkins, and an array of polka-dotted spaces. Visitors can explore these works with unlimited access from 6 pm to 10 pm every Friday night during the program.
Live music to complement the art
NGV Friday Nights wouldn’t be complete without a stellar lineup of live performances. This season, Melbourne-based violinist, producer, and DJ Elle Shimada kicks off the series on 20 December. Known for her unapologetically energetic and woman-powered music, Shimada sets the tone for a dynamic summer.
Upcoming acts include:
- Jade Zoe, Fri 27 Dec, 6 pm
- Tanzer, Fri 3 Jan, 6 pm
- Small Fry, Fri 10 Jan, 6 pm
- Charlie Villas, Fri 17 Jan, 6 pm
- DJ JNETT, Fri 24 Jan, 6 pm
- DIJOK, Fri 31 Jan, 6 pm
- Midsumma, Fri 7 Feb, 6 pm
- D.Tyrone, Fri 14 Feb, 6 pm
- Asia TOPA, Fri 21 Feb, 6 pm
- Yeo, Fri 28 Feb, 6 pm
- Aqueerius, Fri 7 Mar, 6 pm
- Charlie Villas, Fri 14 Mar, 6 pm
- Rainbow Chan, Fri 21 Mar, 6 pm
- Shah Sharafi, Fri 28 Mar, 6 pm
- DIJOK, Fri 4 Apr, 6 pm
- DJ JNETT, Fri 11 Apr, 6 pm
- Tanzer, Fri 18 Apr, 6 pm
Each evening promises a fusion of soundscapes to accompany Kusama’s mesmerising installations, creating a unique sensory experience for attendees.
Bars and dining options
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The NGV Friday Nights experience is elevated with a variety of food and drink options inspired by Japanese flavours. Guests can enjoy street-style dishes and authentic cuisine in the Great Hall or Gallery Kitchen. Beverage options abound with the Schweppes Garden, Moët & Chandon Champagne Bar, Four Pillars Gin Bar, and the Yering Station Wine Bar offering refreshing drinks throughout the evening. Visitors can also indulge in Häagen-Dazs ice cream while strolling through the exhibition spaces.
Accessibility and event details
The NGV is committed to making Friday Nights with Yayoi Kusama an inclusive experience. The exhibition and all public areas are wheelchair accessible, with an Exhibition Access Guide and Sensory Map available to assist visitors with neurodiversity, disability, or sensory sensitivities. Some installations use lights, patterns, and mirrors, which may present challenges for certain individuals, but comprehensive resources will ensure all guests can plan their visit accordingly.
The event takes place at NGV International, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. Tickets grant access to the exhibition and all Friday Night activities from 6 pm to 10 pm. For those wishing to attend, online ticket prices are $45 for adults, $40 for concession holders, $37 for NGV members, and $23 for children. Limited tickets will also be available at the door, though slightly higher priced.
The NGV Friday Nights program offers Melburnians and visitors an opportunity to engage with Kusama’s captivating art in a relaxed and vibrant evening setting.
For full details and ticket bookings, visit the NGV website.
