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Art Across Aus. 

In honour of our fabulous interstate friends, we thought we’d broaden our horizons this month and compile a list of the innovative cultural events happening right across the country. A time of transformation and change, Autumn seems to be a particularly creative season here in Australia, with a host of incredible musical festivals and arts exhibitions currently booked into the calendar. Here’s a list of our top-picks in all the capital cities.

Sydney: Ten Thousand Suns – 25th
Biennale of Sydney Sydney’s 25th Biennale, ‘Ten Thousand Suns’, has transformed six iconic locations across the city into vibrant hubs of creativity. Running through May and June, the cultural extravaganza showcases visionary artists from all around the globe – from multidisciplinary artists to experimental DJ’s. Best of all, it’s completely free to enjoy.
Find out more here.

Melbourne: Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius
The Lume has turned its focus to the O.G Renaissance Man this season, showcasing the “most expansive display of Leonardo da Vinci ever seen under one roof”. In addition to his quintessential artworks (including an 8-metre tall Mona Lisa), the immersive exhibition focuses on da Vinci’s inventions, architecture, and engineering pursuits, complete with never-seen-before sketches and notes.
Find out more here.

Perth: Yhonnie Scarce – The Light of Day
A renowned Kokatha and Nukunu artist, Yhonnie Scarce has garnered international acclaim for her captivating large-scale glass installations. Her latest exhibition, featuring the largest ensemble of her works ever seen in Australia, sheds light on the profound impacts of uranium mining and the ongoing dehumanisation of First Nations communities. Beautiful and thought-provoking, it’s a must visit for those attending Perth Festival.
Find out more here.

Brisbane: Kim Gordon – Object of Projection
Kim Gordon, best known as the bassist, guitarist, and vocalist of iconic rock band Sonic Youth, has simultaneously maintained an exploratory art practice since the ’70s. These works are currently highlighted in two exhibitions as part of ΩHM at Brisbane Powerhouse. “Object Of Projection” presents a diverse combination of photography, mixed media, and video installations, offering a thought-provoking commentary on performance, surveillance, and urban life.
Find out more here.

Hobart: Angie McMahon – Making It Through Tour
Melbourne singer-songwriter Angie McMahon epitomises the raw talent for which the Australian indie music scene is renowned. Most recently, her soulful tones, introspective lyrics, and hypnotising melodies captured the attention of formidable producer, Fred Again.., who brought her out as a surprise guest during his sold-out Melbourne show. Next up, Angie’s playing at the Odean Theatre in Hobart – the perfect way to warm the cockles of your heart this chilly autumn.
Find out more here.

Adelaide: Banff Mountain Film Festival
Whether you’re an adrenalin junky or a nature lover, the Banff Mountain Film Festival is guaranteed to captivate the senses. Showcasing a curated selection of gripping short films, each beautifully shot with mesmerising cinematography, the festival offers a window into the world of the most daring explorers, mountain bikers, skiers, and climbers. Catch it at Adelaide’s iconic Capri Theatre on the 18th of May.
Find out more here.

Canberra: Compassion by Lior
Earning the 2014 ARIA award for Best Classical Album, Lior’s ‘Compassion’ is finally coming to Canberra in May. Based on ancient Hebrew-Arabic texts, the mesmerising song cycle unites Lior’s energising vocal range with Nigel Westlake’s orchestral writings, presenting a statement of shared humanity for a divided world.
Find out more here.

Darwin: Bass in the Grass
While Splendour in the Grass may sadly be cancelled this year, Darwin’s annual Bass in the Grass is still very much going ahead! Held against the stunning backdrop of Mindil Beach’s picturesque foreshore, the event promises a day filled with sun, sand, and eternal summer. The line-up features some of Australia’s best bands, DJs, and artists, from Bag Raiders and Young Franco to Middle Kids and Ziggy Alberts.
Find out more here. 

Sit: Back and enjoy some side-stitching laughs.

PSA: there’s just under a week left of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, with some of the season’s hottest acts still making the rounds. To celebrate, we’ve put together a list of our top picks – from seasoned stand-ups like Hannah Gadsby to bright-eyed newcomers like Urooj Ashfaq. Prepare for an evening packed with full belly laughs, insightful commentary, and all-round elite humour.

Hannah Gadsby – Woof!
In 2018, Hannah Gadsby skyrocketed to international stardom with their groundbreaking and universally acclaimed Netflix special, ‘Nanette’. Now, six years later, the Emmy Award-winning comedian returns to their hometown with a brand new show that’s already making waves. Irreverent and introspective, ‘Woof’ examines notions like anxiety, conformity, and whether you can truly be a feminist if you don’t love Taylor Swift.
Book tickets here.

He Haung – Tiger Daughter vs The World
Cementing herself as a true rising star, He Huang clinched the Best Newcomer title at the 2023 Sydney Comedy Festival and earned a nomination in the same category in Melbourne. Her latest show, ‘Tiger Daughter vs The World’, invites audiences on a side-splitting global adventure, weaving through exotic bazaars, ancient ruins, international cuisine, and comical transportation mishaps. Presented in both English and Chinese, brace yourself for plenty of sass, colourful language, and masterfully crafted punchlines.
Book your tickets here.

Jay Wymarra – AmaJayus
Dubbed a “queer-feral rock opera”, AmaJayus chronicles the inner-life, conflicts, and fashion choices of a young First Nations boy who refuses to do as he’s told. Part-comedy, part-ghost story, the “terrifying yet wonderful” masterpiece is, at its heart, about self-acceptance and finding where you fit. Straddling the line between political and perverse, AmaJayus is put simply: a force to be reckoned with.
Book your tickets here.

Rhys Nicholson – Huge Big Party Congratulations
With a slew of 5 star reviews already pouring in, Rhys Nicholson’s brand new show ‘Huge Big Party Congratulations’ has been lauded as “cathartic”, “awe-inspiring”, and “a little bit below-the-belt” – all big ticks in our books. Winner of the 2022 Melbourne International Comedy Festival Award for Most Outstanding Show, Rhys tends to sell-out – be sure to get in quick!
Book ticket here.

Nick White – Teenage Dream
If Nick White looks familiar, it’s likely due to his viral impressions on TikTok, showcasing universally recognisable characters like “dull co-worker” and “European guy at your hostel.” In his debut show, ‘Teenage Dream,’ he continues this brand of nuanced, observational humour while reflecting on the experiences that have made him who he is. As big fans of his videos, we’re eager to check it out!
Book tickets here.

Appreciate: The Twala Trust Animal Sanctuary

During a recent Instagram scroll sesh, we stumbled across the resident ‘emotional support kitten’ at the Twala Trust Animal Sanctuary in Zimbabwe and it seriously brightened our days. An orphan herself, Marble provides cuddles, care and companionship to a group of baby vervet monkeys who’ve been separated from their mothers. Whether she’s snuggling with them in hammocks, grooming their tiny heads, or engaging in playful antics, Marble’s presence brings comfort and joy to these young monkeys, helping them experience a sense of connection, safety, and nurture during their formative years. It’s seriously heartwarming, and a testament to the unconditional love of all animals. We’re not crying, you’re crying!

The Twala Trust provides a safe haven for a diverse range of injured and orphaned animals, from domestic critters like cats and dogs, to lions, antelope, hedgehogs and reptiles. Their mission is to ensure that these animals receive the care they need, whether it’s rehabilitation for release back into the wild, rehoming, or providing a supportive environment where they can live out their days with dignity. If you’re eager to witness their remarkable work firsthand, Twala Trust offers an immersive and deeply personal volunteer experience, where you’ll have the opportunity to engage in hands-on tasks like rescuing injured animals and taking the dogs for their daily walks. Our faith in humanity is well and truly restored!

Find out more here. 

TRY: Melbourne’s best new eateries.

The intricate craft of nail art is one that is often over-looked. Much like fashion design and makeup artistry, however, it can be a form of powerful self-expression that demands a high level of technical skill. Paying tribute to the vibrant landscape and dynamic history of this age-old practice, ACRYLICS: Hidden Sculptural Art is a new coffee table book curated by revolutionary creative director, ICECOLD. Spotlighting a range of acclaimed nail techs, the book pays homage to the influence of Black American and Asian immigrant cultures on nail artistry – depicted through striking photography, bold typography and intimate storytelling. We’ll take ten!

To accompany the book, ICECOLD has developed an immersive, 360º exhibition in New York designed to create a surrealist manicure experience. Hands extend from the vibrant red walls, each embellished with intricate sculptural acrylic nails – think dangling diamonds, bubbles, and Biblical iconography. The final instalment in the ACRYLICS series is a sonic storytelling experience, composed to capture the essence of each story within the book and to take exhibition viewers on an auditory journey through the artwork. 

Find out more or purchase the book here. 

Melbourne’s best new eateries.

As the temperature climbs above the 20-degree mark (finally!), we Melburnians are emerging from our winter hideaways with a renewed desire to socialise. Fortunately, the colder months have heralded a wave of exciting new restaurant openings, providing us with perfect opportunities to thaw out, break the ice, and relish in our city’s culinary prowess. From a quaint all-day eatery from the team behind Florian to a charismatic, 100-seat wine bar nestled within the industrial charm of Cremorne, we’ve curated a list of our 6 favourites for your silly season soirees.  

1. Studley Park Boathouse 
Following an extensive multi-million dollar renovation, the new and improved Studley Park Boathouse is now officially open to the public – and just in time for summer. The venue’s sympathetic revamp has retained the heritage charm of Melbourne’s oldest boathouse, all while bringing in a host of new opportunities for dining, drinking and entertainment. Pop in for afternoon wine paddles on the sun-filled terrace or settle in for a long, leisurely lunch at the beautifully designed Conservatory area. With live music and boat hire on weekends, this long-standing local treasure is the perfect summertime destination. 
Book here. 

2. Juniper 
From the dream team behind Carlton’s most beloved cafe, Florian, Juniper brings a similar, home-style cooking approach to the elegant streets of South Melbourne. While Florian drew much of its inspiration from European flavours and ingredients, Juniper’s menu is underpinned by a distinct Asian influence: think mushroom congees, pickled ginger smashed avo, and crispy chicken skin sandwiches. The cafe’s close proximity to South Melbourne Market manifests in the freshness of the food and the seasonal focus of the menu, complemented by a selection of artisanal baked goodies from Austro Bakery. 
Book here. 

3. Julie Abbotsford 
The newest addition to the Abbotsford Convent family, Julie has already made a name for itself as one of Melbourne’s best new eateries. A labour of love, the restaurant-bar is owned by Julieanne Blum, former head chef of Cam’s Kiosk around the corner. Equal parts refined and cosy, the expansive dining room is clad in delightful butter-colour tiles – spilling out onto a leafy courtyard designed for natural wines in the sun. The menu is entirely informed by the on-site kitchen garden, featuring everything from cabbage-broth risotto to baby barramundi with mandarin. An institution in the making if we ever saw one. 
Book here. 

4. Studio Amaro 
The latest venture by the formidable Commune team (Tokyo Tina, Firebird, Hanoi Hannah, et al.), Studio Amaro is a suave Italian eatery just up the road from Yours Truly. A key player in Windsor’s ongoing culinary renaissance, the 100-seat venue is the kind of spot that caters for every foodie occasion: casual lunches, evening soirees and intimate wine dates in the basement bar. The menu is ultimately designed to share, combining a plethora of seasonal anti pasti with a handful of meat and pasta dishes. Replete with brass accents, burgundy tones and big leather booth seats, the interiors reverberate the fun, sexy ethos that characterises the wider Commune portfolio. Two big thumbs up from us. 
Book here.

5. Lilac Wine 
When it comes to hospitality, Cremorne has always been a bit of a quiet achiever. A stroll through the industrial neighbourhood reveals a goldmine of impeccable bars and eateries – one that continues to flourish and evolve. Lilac Wine is the latest addition to the selection. Housed within a vast factory space on Stephenson Street, the laidback haunt is clad in melange of eclectic decor including Persian rugs, vintage buffets and a large spinning disco ball. The wine list is equally diverse, championing natural, locally sourced and biodynamic varietals. If you plan to stay a while, the roaring open-kitchen serves up an array of Mediterranean dishes such as walnut Bolognese and savoury mince on toast. 
Book here. 

SIT: Back and immerse yourself in the masterful vision of Martin Scorsese.

It’ll come as a surprise to no one that Martin Scorsese’s newest project, Killers of the Flower Moon, is nothing short of a cinematic masterpiece. The true crime epic delves into the haunting and tragic events that gripped the Osage Nation during the early 20th century, ignited by the discovery of oil that swiftly transformed the fortunes of numerous tribes. With a hefty running time of 3.27 hours (buy snacks in bulk), the film examines the roots of injustice and corruption stemming from colonisation in America, all while focusing its narrative on the personal tragedy of couple Mollie and Ernest. Lily Gladstone is captivatingly authentic in her role as the Osage lead, Leonardo DiCaprio ventures into uncharted territory with a compelling portrayal of a slow-witted veteran, and Robert De Niro, as the greedy and sociopathic Uncle Billy, remains as spellbinding as ever. Poignant, brutal and brimming with emotion, the critics are calling it Scorsese’s best yet.

Adapted from David Grann’s non-fiction book of the same name, Killers of the Flower Moon is deeply commitment to authenticity. Throughout the production, the film involved Osage people at every level, from set and costume design to the incorporation of cultural rituals. Notably, the Osage language is featured without subtitles, allowing the emotional performances to speak for themselves. Collaborators like cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto, composer Robbie Robertson and Oscar-winning editor Thelma Schoonmaker contribute their talents to create a work with the swagger of Scorsese’s previous films, while also offering a more measured and immersive experience.

Watch it here.

REMEMBER: To sort your Xmas shopping early.

When it comes to Christmas, we’re famous for doing our gift shopping ridiculously early. As most of you are probably aware by now, we’re nothing if not well-prepared. So, to rescue you from the chaotic shopping frenzy just days before Santa comes, we’ve decided to unwrap our annual gift guide a little early this year. As always, its full of delightful things for the home, the wardrobe, and the bathroom cabinet. Thanks us later!

1. For the entertainer: Dinosaur Designs Resin Bowl
2. For the adventurer: Ocean Pools Book 
3. For the beauty lover: Lesse Skincare 
4. For the fashionista: Hijack Sandals 
5. For the yogi: Bala Yoga Bangles
6. For the aspiring sommelier: Winona Wine Club Subscription
7. For the one in need of some ‘me time’: Little Company
8. For the brunch connoisseur: Soft Edge Egg Cup 
9. For the artistic soul: Lotterria Lotterria 
10. For the muso: Boy Genius’ New Album on Vinyl 

EDUCATE: The world’s first AI designer.

We’ve decided to take a rather optimistic stance on AI technology, recognising its potential to enhance and streamline the work of the human artist rather than hinder it. After all, the raw creativity that flows from the human mind can never be truly replicated. So, when Studio Snoop unveiled the world’s first ever AI-powered designer at Milan Design Week, we were genuinely awed. Appearing as a digital figure on the large screen, Tilly Talbot is an “innovation designer” who collaborates seamlessly with her human counterparts to produce a collection of fine ‘Bahau-AI’ pieces – and they’re pretty damn gorgeous. Tilly is programmed with the studio’s core values, focusing on human-centred design choices and sustainable ideologies. She’ll even call out her human collaborators if they opt for a material that isn’t eco-friendly. Her presence at Milan Design Week signifies a harmonious blend of AI and human creativity, offering exciting possibilities for the world of design.

Visitors of the exhibition were invited to provide constructive criticism, engaging with Tilly in a ChatGPT-like dialogue as they wandered around the space. While many inquired about AI’s impact on creative industries, Studio Snoop’s founder, Amanda Talbot, deems the experiment a success. She believes that knowledge empowers us to embrace and participate in AI’s evolving landscape, and that in spite of fear, it’s an incredibly exciting time to be part of the design industry. This sentiment resonates with Zaha Hadid Architects, who actively employ AI in their design process, proving that a harmonious partnership between humans and AI holds the key to unlocking vast creative potential.

Read more here.

EDUCATE: Yourself on the delightful work of Olana Janfa.

Art has the unique ability to capture ideas in ways that connect, delight and cut to the core. The very embodiment of this, ‘What’s Your Gov’ment Name’ is a new exhibition from Ethiopian-Norwegian Artist Olana Janfa, and the first instalment in Museum Victoria’s highly anticipated Culture Makers Initiative. Taking over the grand hallways of the Immigration Museum, the exhibition tells the story of Janfa’s migration experience through a series of vibrant, large-scale murals. Each of his paintings is imbued with humour and honesty, making audiences smile while asking them to consider the experience of assimilating into a new country as a migrant. What’s more, the bold and exuberant colours are just the thing we’re craving as we head into the hellish depths of winter!

Born and raised in Ethiopia, Janfa migrated to Norway as a teenager before settling in Australia in 2015. Melbourne has been his home ever since. Having picked up a paint brush for first time just five years ago, the artist is entirely self-taught – a bonafide natural talent whose creative spirit is turning heads all over Australia’s art scene (he’s already collaborated with the likes of Nike, Obus and the NGV). Creating out of his studio in Thornbury, Janfa works predominantly with oil, pastel and acrylic paint, using old wood cuts and furniture in lieu of traditional canvas materials. Exploring themes of identity, culture and community, his one-of-a-kind paintings exude a joyfulness and charisma that not only makes you feel good, but makes you think too. We’re huge fans.

Buy tickets to What’s Your Gov’ment Name here. 

REMEMBER: Australia in the ‘90s.

It’s safe to say our studio is a pretty nostalgic bunch. Every now and then, we like to take a a trip down memory lane and reflect on some of our weirdest and most wonderful childhood memories. The kind of things that make us say “did we dream that? Or was there really a tiki-themed buffet on Burwood Highway with a giant volcano out the front?”. In the spirit of sentimentality, we thought we’d put together a list of things that defined Australian culture in the ‘90s – prepare to have a vault of long-buried memories unlocked.

1. All-You-Can-Eat Pizza Hut
Pour one out for the fallen soldier that is Pizza Hut’s All-You-Can-Eat restaurants. Featuring an unlimited supply of pizza, pasta, salad and dessert, there truly was nothing better.

2. Smorgies
Everyone’s favourite tiki-themed buffet, Smorgies was where hunger went to die. Mountains and mountains of food surrounded by stuffed animals and talking trees, with that iconic Volcano facade – what more could you want in a restaurant?

3. Johnson and Friends
There was something so unnerving about this 90s kids show. Was it the hot water bottle wobbling its way across our screens? Or the permanently smiling accordion? Or the strangle

4. Round the Twist
Listening to the Round the Twist theme song is kind of like jumping in a time machine and straight to 1992. Bizarre storylines, iconic coastal scenery and legendary Australian actors made for television gold.

5. Owning a Nokia 6610
While not specific to Australia, this trusty brick of a phone was the height of tech innovation in the 90s. To be able to play snake and send SMS’s was everything we needed and more.

6. The Life Ed Van/Harold the Giraffe
If you were a school kid during the 90s, you’ll remember the thrill of seeing the Life Ed Van parked on your oval. We hear Harold is still doing the rounds – some things are truly timeless!

7. The Children’s Birthday Cake Book
Having sold half a million copies, this classic book turned any birthday party into a 10/10. Our favourite was always the iconic swimming pool cake, complete with jelly and a fence make from TV snacks.

8. Rage on Saturday Mornings
Hearing the sensual whisper of the word ‘Rage’ was how you knew it was a Saturday morning in the 90s and early 2000s. The program sparked a musical awakening in so many people, before the days of Youtube and Spotify.

9. Milky Bar Kid
The Milky Bar Kid spanned generations, but we always remember those legendary 90s ads. “It’s the Milky Bar Kid!!” … what a time to be alive.

10. Sunny Boys
The discontinuation of the much-loved Sunny Boy was a crime against humanity. These triangular shaped icy poles were the ultimate refresher on a hot Australian afternoon. @Coles, @Woolies: please restock!

11. Maccas Birthday Parties
If you were lucky enough to have a maccas party, you’d instantly skyrocket to the most popular kid in the class. These shindigs were utter chaos, and a rite of passage for many Aussie Kids.

12. 1300 6555 06!
The jingle for the Read Writing Hotline is imprinted on our brains and shows no signs of leaving. Whoever wrote this tune is a musical genius!