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SIT: Sit in an ancient greek temple at the NGV Garden.

We’re well on our way to summer, which means the NGV’s beloved Summer Nights program is soon to be back in our lives – yippee! This year, the centrepiece replacing the pink pond will be ‘Temple of Boom’ – a striking, Greek-style structure paying homage to the Parthenon in Athens, one of the most significant buildings in Western culture. Inviting us to consider the ways in which ancient and contemporary societies imbue architecture with meaning, the installation will be painted with a series of vibrant, large-scale artworks created by some of our city’s most exciting artists. Grab yourself a cocktail and/or iced tea and spend afternoons traipsing throughout the kaleidoscopic columns. In true NGV fashion, a stellar line-up of bands and DJs will be on regular rotation.

Read more here.

REMEMBER: It’s Father’s Day this weekend.

A friendly reminder to all you last minute stragglers that it’s Father’s Day this Sunday. And, as we all know, Dads can be pretty hard to buy for – there’s no candle or flowers equivalent for our good ol’ pops! To ensure you don’t gift yours a Lynx soap pack from Woolies this year, we’ve put together a dozen handy little gems that are guaranteed to impress every kind of dad – perfect for fathers and father figures alike! Thank us later.

For the dad who appreciates self-care: Moroccan Neroli Shaving Duet – Aesop

For the foodie dad: Everything I love to Cook – Neil Perry

For the muso dad: Freak Out/Release – Hot Chip (Vinyl)

For the literary dad: Audible Subscription

For the dad with little ones: Bluey: Perfect

For the dad who has everything: Dress Socks – Paire

For the coffee snob dad: Fortnightly Care Package – Market Lane Coffee

For the green thumb dad: Oyster Mushroom Growing Kit – Life Cykel

For the outdoorsy dad: Rambler Colster Stubby Cooler – Yeti

For the techy dad: Ray Soundbar – Sonos

For dad who needs some ‘me’ time: Sense of Self Voucher

For the footwear loving dad: Stepney Workers Club Sneakers

APPRECIATE: The artists breathing life into Melbourne’s future Metro Tunnel.

The Metro Tunnel has been under construction for so long we’ve almost forgotten there’s a point to the scaffolding, bollards and cranes that have taken up what seems like permanent residence in our city. We come however, bearing good news: construction is edging into its final years, and five incredible artists from around the world have been commissioned to create permanent large-scale artworks in each of its five underground stations – a far cry from the grey, dystopian vibes of the current City Loop.

The artists set to invigorate the tunnel walls include visionary Melbourne artist Patricia Piccinini (Parkville Station), VCA’s head of painting Raafat Ishak (Anzac Station), winner of the National Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Art Award Danie Mellor (State Library Station), Mexican-Canadian Artist Rafael Lozano-Hemmer (Town Hall Station), and multidisciplinary Australian artist Abdul Abdullah (Arden Station). Spanning everything from mosaic to installation, the works will draw on Melbourne’s cultural heritage while making thought-provoking sociopolitical commentary and contributing to the next phase of our artistic evolution.

Uniting the collection will be a line-wide artwork by Yorta Yorta/Wamba Wamba/Mutti Mutti/Boonwurrung artist Maree Clarke. Spanning all five stations, the piece will embrace the five clans of the Kulin nation and foster connections to Country through depictions of the landscape.

Read more here.

EDUCATE: Yourself on the mesmerising work of Monet.

Immerse yourself in a floral utopia this spring at the Lume’s newest multi-sensory art experience. Father of impressionism and one of the most innovative artists of the last century, Claude Monet was most famous for his mesmerising landscapes, which captured a momentary feeling rather than a faithful portrayal of a scene.The exhibition will feature psychedelic projections of his best known paintings along with prominent works from his contemporaries – think Pissarro, Renoir and Cézanne. There’ll be an enchanting soundtrack featuring classical songs from the era, a custom floral aroma infusing the space, painting stations for the little ones, and a French-style cafe for the full sensory experience. We can’t wait.

Book in here.

TRY: Making Paper Collages.

If you were a fan of collage making as a kid, you’ll know there’s something incredibly meditative about cutting and pasting scrap paper. The grown-up version of your beloved childhood craft station, That Paper Joint is a purpose-built sustainable studio running collage making workshops out of a converted medical centre on Sydney Road. Among a warm and cosy interior, there’s walls lined with a host of recycled paper materials including children’s books and magazines, plus an in-house bar serving up wine, cheese boards and pizzas. Spend an evening collaborating with pals as you connect with your inner artiste or visit solo for a few hours of calming self expression – we highly recommend it.

Book your session here.

SIT: In this chair made out of Nikes.

Bringing together two of our great loves – Air Jordans and modernist chairs – this insanely cool creation by New York studio Ceeze sets a new benchmark in sustainable furniture design. Ceeze, who have becoming famous for engineering bespoke shoes, were looking for ways to recycle the offcuts and waste materials used in their processes. Hence the concept for ‘Victory Chair’ was born, a handcrafted composition combining 30+ pairs of Air Jordans with a beautiful baltic birchwood frame. Each up-cycled chair takes upwards of 75 hours to make, with a limited edition of just 10 available.
Check it out here.

REMEMBER: Speed Dealer Sunglasses

Against all odds, one of the most unlikely trends from the early noughts is having a resurgence and we’re not at all mad about it: enter speed dealer sunglasses. If you don’t believe us, cult eyewear brand ARNETTE has just released a modern take on their iconic Catfish specs, Kim Kardashian was seen sporting Balenciaga speedies at the Vanity Fair Oscars after party, and the runways of Melbourne Fashion Week were strewn with this aerodynamic, wrap-around style. To help you get in touch with your inner Darude, we’ve put together a list of our 5 favourites. Happy shopping!

1. Catfish, Arnette
Welcoming back a ‘90s classic, the 30th Anniversary edition of ARNETTE’s Catfish Sunglasses features the same iconic wrap-around shape paired with a gleaming metallic finish inspired by graffiti. This time, they’re made from 100% biodegradable nylon for a sustainable edge – win!
Shop them here.

2. Mono Rectangle Sunglasses, Balenciaga
When it comes to the speed dealer trend, Balenciaga is (as with most things) very much leading the way. These sleek bad boys will transport you a hundred years into the future with their silver lenses and frameless design.
Shop them here.

3. RB3542 Chromance, Ray-Ban
Even Ray-Ban has jumped on the bandwagon with their lightweight and ultra-comfortable Chromance design, which fine-tunes light and makes everyday colours brighter, clearer and more extraordinary. 10/10 for innovation, Ray-Ban!
Shop them here.

4. Melba, Szade
If you’re making your first foray into speed dealer territory and need something a little more accessible, this is the design for you. It’s made from entirely recycled materials and gives you the streamline speedy look without the wrap-around sides.
Shop them here.

5. Mask Sunglasses, Gucci
Bringing a sophisticated European aesthetic to the quintessential speed dealer shape (the ultimate oxymoron), these chic Gucci shades will provide you with optimum protection as you zip around Milan on a moped.
Shop them here.

APPRECIATE: The Lost Wax Technique of West Africa.

Preserving the traditions and legacy of West African craftspeople, Maison Intègre’s debut collection has got us all swooning. Designed by founder Ambre Jarno in collaboration with French designer Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance, each piece has been handcrafted by West African master artisans using the Lost Wax Technique – a six thousand year old method whereby molten bronze is poured into a wax mould, which is then melted away to reveal a solid metal sculpture.

Jarno spent much of her childhood travelling through Africa, and later lived in Burkina Faso where she forged strong relationships with a host of local craftspeople – from waxers to welders. She established Maison Intègre in 2017 as a means of supporting the work of 15 Ouagadougou artisans while preserving the region’s ancient craft traditions, particularly that of the Lost Wax Technique. In 2018, she met Duchaufour-Lawrance who had also travelled extensively through Burkina Faso, and invited him to explore West Africa with her to uncover the symbols and stories of the region and see these techniques first-hand.

Embracing sensual curves and beautiful irregularities, the otherworldly collection is inspired by common shapes found in Tiebele – a traditional Kassena village located in the south of Burkina Faso – and includes lamps, tables, chairs and mask sconces. It’s also currently on display at New York Design Week, if you’re lucky enough to be in the area.

Peruse the full collection here.

EDUCATE: Yourself on Dark Mofo.

After two years of Covid cancellations, our little crew is finally heading to Dark Mofo (touch wood) for a weekend of weird and wonderful festivities, and it’s safe to say we’re just a bit excited. As one of the world’s most avant-garde and provocative cultural events, the music and arts festival follows centuries-old winter solstice rituals, with this year’s theme being ‘rebirth, reincarnation and new life’. To celebrate our upcoming adventure, we thought we’d put together a guide for week two (the festival’s peak) outlining some of the key events. We hope to run into you there!

1. Night Mass: Transcendence
Dark Mofo’s late night celestial rave is back. Be transported beyond the physical realm to Planet X, where Her Divine Holiness Pope Alice will be granting blessings to us humble earthlings before heralding a line-up of cosmic DJs and interstellar artists. It’s Dark Mofo at its most outrageous, and we couldn’t be more excited.
Find out more here.

2. Winter Feast
Set on the Salamanca waterfront in the Princes Wharf, The Winter Feast is a sumptuous banquet playing host to over 50 food stalls and a bevy of live music and performance art. Devour Bruny Island oysters, 48h fermented sourdough waffles and just about everything in between. This year, there’ll also be the recreation of Saturnalia, an ancient roman ritual involving suckling pig and copious wine.
Find out more here.

3. Angel’s Lament
Allow the iridescent sounds of the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra to wash over you at Angel’s Lament, a performance centred on Arvo Pärt’s Symphony No.4 which speaks to the power of the human spirit. Featuring harp, strings and percussion, the piece extends a hand in solidarity to those affected by politically corrupt action.
Find out more here.

4. Perfume Genius
A queer icon of American indie music, Perfume Genius is known for his raw sensitivity and innate storytelling ability. Pairing confessional piano ballads with triumphant glam rock tracks, the artist has cemented himself as one of the most important alternative music acts of the last 20 years. Prepare to be mesmerised.
Find out more here.

5. Borderlands
With four sessions taking place across the weekend, Borderlands is an electronic music microfestival incorporating some of Dark Mofo’s headline acts. We’re going to Borderlands III, a sonic playground of ocean resonance, ethereal mantras and guitar drones, where “macro-physical sound dreams abound”.
Find out more here.

6. Kim Gordon
The legendary founding member of American pop-punk band Sonic Youth, as well as an actor, writer and visual artist, Kim Gordon is something of a force to be reckoned with. Her band will be performing songs from her debut solo album ‘No Home Record’, which resists formula in favour of emotion, experimentation and texture.
Find out more here.

TRY: An oyster tour of the bay, from Portsea to Port Melbourne.

We’re calling it: oysters by the bay is not just a summer sport. And as we enter the chilly season, we’ve made it our mission to keep oyster consumption at an all time high – preferably eaten with a water view. To show our commitment, we’ve put together a handy little guide documenting the best oyster spots on the bay. Think bulk molluscs, fizzy wine, tantalising ingredients and some of the most beautiful scenery in Victoria.

THE PENINSULA:

Portsea Hotel:
Let’s start with an oldie but a goodie. Portsea Hotel is one of Victoria’s most iconic waterfront venues, known for its historic charm and breathtaking views. Each day, the chef handpicks the finest oysters from their morning delivery, serving them up with a fragrant sherry and fennel vignette. Order half a dozen for $24 or a dozen for $48. 

Audrey’s at Continental Hotel Sorrento:
Sorrento’s grand old dame has finally reopened, boasting five new drinking and dining areas along with a luxe hotel and spa. The venue’s main restaurant, Audrey’s, is a haven for seafood lovers, featuring a menu by none other than Scott Pickett along with a hefty selection of oysters. 

Morgan’s:
Overlooking bay vistas and towering Norfolk Island pines, there’s something truly special about a visit to Morgans. Oyster fans are in luck with the choice between freshly shucked Sydney Rock oysters or new style oysters ‘Kilpatrick’. Bloody Mary oysters have also been known to frequent the menu. 

The Rocks:
Located at Mornington’s peak, The Rocks is a destination for sustainably sourced seafood with a view. Oysters to start are a must, paired with a zesty lemon myrtle mignonette. Afterwards, we recommend a serve of Morton Bay Bugs and the linguini marinara. 

BAYSIDE SUBURBS & INNER-CITY:

The Cerberus Beach House:
Heading further up the coastline to the picturesque bayside suburbs, The Cerberus Beach House is a Black Rock institution on the waterfront in Half Moon Bay. Secure a spot by the window and order half a dozen freshly shucked oysters with either Mignonette or Salmon Roe for just $24. It’s worth mentioning the kiosk on the ground floor does a mean fish and chips. 

Baia Di Vino:
A slice of Europe in the heart of Sandringham, Baia Di Vino (which translates literally to ‘Wine Bay’) is quite possibly bayside’s most sophisticated watering hole. Take your oysters natural or with their signature Campari dressing (only $4 each) and wash them down with a glass of Taittinger Champagne. 

Elwood Bathers:
An Elwood hot spot, this dazzling beachfront venue does some of Melbourne’s best oysters for $6.50 a pop. Pair them with a citrusy Pizzini Prosecco or coastal spritz cocktail, made with sapphire gin, Vermouth Bianco, Prosseco, Soda and Lemon.

Captain Baxter: 
If you’re taking the term ‘Oyster Tour’ literally, you could walk along the bay trail from Elwood Bathers to this next beachfront pit stop. A St Kilda stalwart, Captain Baxter serves up appellation oysters with shiso mignonette – a Japanese ingredient known for its refreshing flavour – as well as vibrant atmosphere and live music. 

Pipi’s Kiosk: 
A newcomer on Albert Park Beach, Pipi’s Kiosk is a contemporary Australian seafood restaurant framed by sweeping views of the bay and city. While Pipi Shells are the main event here (the Pipis Pasta is a must-try!), we recommend starting the night with a round of Sydney Rock oysters, served with apple and celery mignonette.