Hit the gallery circuit
Australian women artists from 1900 to today are the focus of the Know My Name exhibit that runs from midNovember through January at the
(nga.gov.au). Be sure to snap up a monochrome T-shirt printed with the names of some of our most admired Australian creatives, including Grace Cossington-Smith and Banduk Mamburra Marika, after seeing their work. While you’re there, stop in at two of the most instagrammable vignettes in the entire city: Yayoi Kusama’s spotty, dotty The Spirits of Pumpkins Descended into the Heavens and James Turrell’s permanent and dramatic Skyspace installation, Within without.
Just a few minutes walk away you’ll find the (portrait. gov.au) and its Pub Rock exhibition, which runs until 14 February. The collection of candid moments, staged portraiture and mid-performance snaps celebrates the many Australian musicians who have shaped our culture through
National Gallery of Australia National Portrait Gallery
Work off any lunchtime indulgence with a wander beside famed
– the section near Commonwealth Park offers great views of the Captain Cook Memorial with its impressive water jet. Next, make your way to the
(awm.gov.au); a tour at any time is moving but the solemnity of the Last Post ceremony, which takes place every day around 5pm, is an experience
War Memorial Lake Burley Griffin Australian
(pilotrestaurant. com) is one of the hottest restaurants in Australia, seating just 22 people inside, with a further 11 in a new outdoor area, and boasting a swagful of hats and stars. The eight-course dégustation dinner offers fresh twists on classic flavours and uses the best in local produce. But the artistry isn’t only on the plate; you can also purchase its custom-scented candles.
Wind up with a nightcap
For an elegant way to finish the day, nab a booth or score a seat under the arched window at hatted wine and cocktail haunt (barrochford. com) in the city centre. The scene is a little bit polished, a touch hipster, the music is on vinyl and the drinks list hits all the right notes.
Bar Rochford