ARTS AROUND THE Dandenongs and Yarra Valley

The finer things in life are celebrated with consummate style in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges on Melbourne’s doorstep.

You’ll find quality accommodation in these pages, which provide the perfect base from which to explore this picturesque corner of Victoria.
At Upwey in the Dandenongs, you have the chance to experience contemporary art, music and performance at the Burrinja Gallery. The venue is renowned in particular for its collection of indigenous art. The Burrinja Cafe and Bar has a great reputation for its great music and dinner shows, which feature some of Australia’s favourite musicians. In autumn and spring, artists of the hills open their studio doors to the public. Check the gallery website at www.burrinja.org.au for live performances and new exhibitions.

Luxury accommodation & cottages in Yarra Valley / Dandenongs / Ranges VIC

At Marysville, don’t miss Bruno’s Art & Sculpture Garden. It might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but you couldn’t fail to be impressed with this world of fantasy, beauty and humour. Surrounded by the rainforest setting, Bruno Torfs has created deeply inspiring experiences for art and garden lovers. Through the gardens and using local timbers, there are over 300 paintings and sculptures.

Another great stop in your exploration of the area is the TarraWarra Museum of Art in Healesville, which focuses on Australian modern art from the 1950s onwards. The award-winning complex opened in late 2003 and explores the relationship between art, architecture and the Yarra Valley.

This summer, the “Five Decades” exhibition will comprise a selection of paintings demonstrating prevailing themes and innovations from the TarraWarra Museum of Art collection. For the first time, a selection of works from 1950 until the year 2000 will be hung chronologically and will feature artists such as Fred Williams, Peter Booth, Ralph Balson, Jeffery Smart, John Brack, Brett Whiteley and Rosalie Gascoigne.