The LUME Melbourne is a unique digital art experience the whole family can enjoy. The permanent 3,000+ Sq m immersive gallery space at the Melbourne Convention Exhibition Centre is four storeys high and projects powerful imagery from 150 state-of-the-art projectors onto the walls and floor.
The LUME Melbourne brings to life the works of Vincent van Gogh, taking families on a journey through his life in the Netherlands, Paris, Arles, Saint Rémy and Auvers-sur-Oise, where he created many of his timeless masterpieces.
When you first enter the gallery space, families are welcome to a life-size re-creation of Vincent van Gogh’s bedroom in Arles. Kids are encouraged to explore and experience his artwork close-up and personal.
A small exhibit features information about Vincent van Gogh, which gives you an insight into his troubled life.
Then you walk into the main gallery space and the scale of the projections completely take your breath away. They fill the room, from the walls to the floor.
To get the best views of the projections, I recommend walking up to the mezzanine level to experience the art in all its wonder.
The projections are accompanied by beautiful classical symphony music, which enriches the experience. Amongst the paintings are quotes which share an insight into his thoughts, feelings and state of mind.
There are over 3,000 inspirational images with the remarkably precise projections running for 45-minutes. Many projections come to life with animated birds and rain.
Inside the main gallery space is The Studio, The Sunflower Room and Café Terrace 1888.
In The Studio, kids can sit at an easel and draw along to a step-by-step instructional video on how to draw their masterpieces like Van Gogh.
The Sunflower Room is a modern interpretation of Van Gogh’s most famous subject. The mirrored room reflects thousands of beautiful artificial sunflowers.
The uniquely recreated Café Terrace 1888 offers a family-friendly menu of Kids Gaufre Nutella Et Fraise and Kids Poulet.
One of my favourite activities with my kids is visiting Art Galleries, but unfortunately, my kids aren’t always as engaged as I would like. This new way of experiencing art is a winner. Kids can freely roam around the space, taking in 360 degrees of art without anyone raising a disapproving eyebrow.
The LUME Melbourne Location: MCEC, 5 Convention Centre Pl, South Wharf Price: $27 – $49 + BF, kids under the age of 3 are free. Book Monday – Friday before 4pm and get 20% off* weekend price (*20% off compared to weekend prices).
We try our best to provide accurate information on kid-friendly events around Victoria but do recommend parents check details directly to confirm dates, times, prices as some details may be subject to change.