MONA

MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) is Australia's largest privately funded museum, located on the Moorilla peninsula at Berriedale, about 12 km north of Hobart in Tasmania. Opened in 2011 by collector David Walsh, it is built largely underground on three levels carved into Triassic sandstone. It is notable for its provocative collection of contemporary and antiquarian art, architecture by Fender Katsalidis, and integration with the Moorilla winery and vineyard on the River Derwent.

Visitors enter via stairs or lift descending into subterranean galleries with low lighting and sandstone walls. There are no traditional wall labels; interpretation is via 'The O' handheld device or smartphone app. Expect large-scale contemporary installations, antiquities, sound and light works, and themed exhibitions across three levels. The site also includes the Moorilla Wine Bar, restaurants, bars, cellar door, pavilion accommodation, and outdoor areas overlooking the River Derwent. Access is by road or the MONA ROMA ferry from Hobart's Brooke Street Pier.

Built on the Moorilla Estate, a winery established in 1947 by Claudio Alcorso. The museum was conceived and funded by Tasmanian collector and professional gambler David Walsh and designed by Fender Katsalidis Architects. It opened on 21 January 2011, replacing the earlier Moorilla Museum of Antiquities, and was constructed at a cost of approximately A$75 million, largely excavated into the peninsula's sandstone.

MONA is Australia's largest privately funded museum and a major centre for contemporary art, antiquities and experimental exhibitions. It has reshaped Tasmania's cultural tourism and hosts the annual MONA FOMA (Festival of Music and Art) and Dark Mofo winter festival, known for presenting provocative, immersive and large-scale art and performance.