The National Gallery of Victoria or NGV as it is popularly known is a large public arts museum depicting art from all over the world, situated at St Kilda Road in Melbourne Australia. The Ian Potter Centre is the distinctive part of the NGV that houses only the Australian art collection. It is therefore the largest centre or public arts gallery in the world to host the largest collection of Australian art under one roof.

These artworks include a wide range of artistic displays such as jewellery, paintings, photography, sculptures, textiles, fashion and much more. All the artworks combine to trace the rich history of art in Australia from Aboriginal and colonial times to the present. The art collection also depicts the contrast, diversity, primacy and power of Aboriginal art and Torres Strait Islander Art.

The tracing of history from these art collections shows some of the turning points in history and contemporary times and depicts the influence of national and world events on all art forms. The similarities and diversity that can be understood by relating the art forms to historic circumstances and happenings of the past is both enlightening and amazing to fathom.

The art collection at the Ian Potter Centre houses the works of many artists. Famous amongst these are Tom Roberts’ Shearing the Rams and The Pioneer by Fredrick McCubbins. Works of artists such as Arthur Streeton, Arthur Boyd, Bill Henson, Sidney Nolan, Albert Tucker, Margaret Preston, Fred Williams and Howard Arkley also feature prominently at the centre. Uta Uta Tjangala and Emily Kngwarray feature prominently among the indigenous art contributors.

There are permanent as well as temporary exhibitions and a kids’ corner that involves activities that make the art and its history come alive. An interesting and thought provoking collection of art, the Ian Potter Centre is a must visit on your next sojourn in Melbourne. If you are looking for a change of accommodation during your visit consider a Melbourne serviced apartment which gives you the privacy and facilities of a hotel and yet offers freedom and a home like environment. A serviced apartment Melbourne like the Citadines on Bourke Melbourne is the ideal choice especially for those planning a long stay.