Melbourne’s favourite cultural conclusion to the working week, the NGV Friday Nights series is returning with a banging winter program. Kicking off Friday 10 June, the vibe-filled evenings will see a solid lineup of live performances with NGAIIRE and Kia on the bill for the launch event followed by a series of top Australian talent including Emma Donovan, Harvey Sutherland, Loure, Surprise Chef, Horatio Luna and more.
Drawing inspiration from the headlining Pablo Picasso exhibition that will transform the NGV, the Friday night series will incorporate the strong creative aesthetic of the 20th-century artist as well showcase the atmospheric energy and ambience of Paris nightlife, which was a large influence on the artist after moving there in 1904. Taking place in the open-air garden terrace of the NGV the space will become a celestial playground, there'll also be mulled wine and blankets to help shield the cold.
‘NGV Friday Nights compliments The Picasso Century exhibition and offers an enriched after-hours experience that immerses visitors in the artworks and places from the exhibition,” says NGV director, Tony Ellwood.
Taking charge in the culinary department, the illustrious Spanish institution, Bar Lourinhã will be popping up at the NGV’s Garden Restaurant. Paying homage to the late-artists heritage, executive chef and owners Matt McConnell and Jo Gamvros from Lourinhã will be putting on a bespoke menu featuring several modern interpretations of Spanish staples and Tapas, from a Manzanilla-braised beef cheek to the zesty and decadent blood orange crème caramel.
“Bar Lourinhã was inspired by our love of Europe’s bar dining culture, particularly in Spain…Jo and I share a love for Picasso’s work – and we cannot wait to share our love of Mediterranean flavours, wine and cherished memories of visiting Spain with audiences at the NGV,” says McConnell.
The NGV Friday Nights series will run from Friday 10 June until Friday October 7, head over here for more details.
Image credit: NGV (Eugene Hyland)