A thoroughly enjoyable visit to the "Monet and Friends" exhibit. I'm not sure how a true art buff would view this style of immersive art experience but I thought it both educational and entertaining. The overall combination of choreographed art projection, scent, music and some limited cgi provides quite a sensory overload. Plenty of room in the exhibition so easy to maintain covid-safe spacing. Many people seated on the floor and the seating provided is always at a premium. A bit more seating would be nice for us oldies. The projected "show" lasts about 45min but there are other activities that would keep you busy for double that and also a bar and tables nearly hidden at the back where you can get refreshment (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and some limited food snacks. We stayed for the Valentine's Day champagne and meal and were generally happy with the arrangements. The food was good, with drinks ordered via the QR code on your phone or by walking to the bar. Service sometimes seemed a bit shambolic but they got there in the end. We put any confusion down to it being a busy day, and the now usual covid related lack of staff of all types. I'm not sure whether restaurant style dining is always offered or whether this was particular to Valentine's Day. Don't forget to get your parking validated. If you decide to stay overnight the Novotel Hotel is literally right at the entrance to "The Lume" and parking is adjacent to that. It couldn't be any more convenient. This is the option that we took.

Mesmerising experience. A must go for art lovers. Felt heavenly and did not wish to leave. Beautifully done -the ships in the paintings rocking, wind sounded, conversation tapes playing in the backdrop of any paintings of social scenes like bars/ eateries or a market place, ripples created in water pairings and the breezy tree beaches created on canvas- all conspire in unison to enchant the viewers. One hour plus of this, the hall inside is huge, high walls , a sit down cafeteria too to view from for a more expensive ticket. Few benches inside if one wants to sit else mostly people are comfortable on the floor and it was hardly crowded. The water lilies pond painting is recreated with an artificial pond with a bridge on top- all inside a frame and is a must photo spot for memory. Another room explains a little history of Monet and his painter friends and shows their works. A third room had mirrors and artificial flowers arranged in a terrace form to again recreate ‘ the water lilies’ in a different way. Accessible entrance and exits, washrooms inside the hall itself too. Exit is through a souvenir shop with lots of merchandise to buy including candles, calendars mugs, aprons, trays, postcards, crochet toys, magnets, pens, puzzles, books and of course pictures of the original paintings. Pictures attached.

The Monet experience was an absolute delight. From the moment I walked in, it was like spending time with an old friend. So many wonderful and extremely recognizable pieces thoughtfully paired with music designed to sweep you away. And it did. While I am skeptical about adaptations in general, the art was brought to life in a fun and charming way. Dragon flies explored flowers, waves propelled ships and trees moved merrily in the breeze. And dancers compelled the youngest amongst us to join in the romp. Benches were sparingly provided throughout the space, but people of all ages largely abandoned them, drawn to experience the show from the floor. A very sweet "Learn to Draw" space was provided where YouTube tutorials were screened. My efforts were forgettable, but it was still a bit of fun to experience before departing. If you were thinking of going - do it. Parking at the convention center is prohibitively expensive, so be sure to collect your validated parking voucher from the overpriced gift shop that marks the exit. (But yes, I did buy something because while expensive, some things were rather lovely.)

A beautiful, enriching experience. The depth of the “Connections.” exhibit is well worth the fairly inexpensive price. The experience includes a short introduction video, a display of a smoking ceremony, and unlimited access (in terms of time) to the main room and three offshoot rooms. The main room has projections on the outer and inner walls and floor, some of which have animations layered on top. There is also accompanying music, speaking, and storytelling and an approximate 5 minute videoed dance performance at the beginning of the video loop. The whole loop is about 45 minutes. There are three side rooms, one of which is interactive and changes with movement, the second contains some of the original works for the projections, and the third is entirely covered in Emily Kame Kngwarreye original works. There is a gift shop through to the exit. In all, it took about an hour and a half. Good for all ages—there were many young children that seemed to be enjoying the large, laid-back space.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Best experience ever. My friend purchased two tickets for us to experience lunch at the Exhibition. Wow, what an experience ... from the minute we arrived the young ushers greeted us and informed us where to enter and explained where the cafe was and gave us directions to the bathroom too. We walked through what almost seemed to be a world of light, color, such beautiful ambience Music playing from Mozart, tchakovsky We were seated in the parissiene cafe Le deux where gorgeous laura seated us and seated us up the front for the best view of the show. We had a delightful meal, the pomme frittes are delicious and you get quite a big size too. The drinks, the food the ambience, the service i could not find fault and I'm quite fussy. Thankyou to all for the most exceptional experience. What was even more of a great surprise is that our parking ticket was $58 and the young usher gave us a parking card which ended up costing us ONLY $12 instead of $58 So you can imagine how happy we were Worth going to see, even if you're not a fan of monets work.

Absolutely magical experience. The thoughtfully animated artworks, paired beautifully with music are projected on the walls and floors make for an incredibly immersive experience. I have taken my child under four years of age to each of the exhibitions (Van Gogh, Monet and Connections) because children 0-3 are free! My child and I have attended each time with a group of friends and we’ve all had such a memorable time. At the current Connections exhibition I highly recommend you dine at Mirri (located in the gallery with a great view of the art). The menu is a celebration of Indigenous cooking heritage and features so many wonderful flavours of First Nations produce. We enjoyed the pavlova, chocolate cake, sausage rolls and fries. The kids dug into the dishes too quickly for me to photograph but they were presented immaculately, just like the photos from the digital Mr Yum menu (pictured).

Spectacular. I have been to two of the exhibitions shown at THE LUME Melbourne. Van Gogh and Monet and Friends. It was relaxing and felt immersive. The floor is illuminated with images as well as the high walls and screens all around. The Soundtrack matches the visual elements and you can sit or lay back and watch. I went on the weekend both times. It may be less busy during the week. There are also smaller rooms with interactive elements and information. There is a new exhibition at the end of June that I will be going to see. I don’t recommend taking smaller children if they are easily distracted or bored, my 5yo was not happy after she spotted the Paris style cafe inside (we did not pre-book tickets for this). She was suddenly starving and that was the end of our wonderful adventure! Food is not allowed inside of the experience.

Read the reason why the team would create such exhibition - to attract young generation who would not just stand to watch an exhibition but would love interation, and I think they have completely nailed the job! Basically, in the main area, you just sit/stand, and watch the images shown on the walls and different installation. They have combined animation, music and smell in the exhibition. It takes one hour to watch the whole show but you can stay as long as you want. There is a second floor for different view. Also there are two small rooms, one showing the history of the artists and allows you to draw your own art work, while the other one try to submerge you into Monet's water lilies. Overall it's an excellent show, also great for pictures.

Connection - true tribute and celebration of the ‘First Nation People ‘ . The staff were all super friendly and Imogen and Katie who led the kids drawing activity were amazing . My nephew had the best time exploring different Colors , signs , drawings and stories of the First Nation People . Although I was skeptical at first due the ticket cost , the art was spectacular . Every story , every music , every area had its own special vibe . The seating areas were cozy and plenty available for almost all . Must surely visit at least once to experience art and culture .
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

We visited during the Immersive exhibition about aboriginal arts and people called Connection. The total video content lasts less than one hour, however we did it twice as it was wonderful! The music was amazing, and I loved the fact that the languages and artists' names were available on small screens during the whole experience. I highly recommend it, plus some extra reading on aboriginal nations if you're not familiar with their names, histories, myths, and languages (my case!).
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

One of the most breathtaking experiences I've had. I came to see the first people's art exhibit called "Connection", and it was incredible and emotionally moving. The use of digital technology showcases the beautiful art, music and stories of the oldest civilization in history - it did not disappoint. I hope this exhibit makes a return at some stage to the Lume, or moves on around the country to other cities or to venues around the world. Thank you! Always was, always will be.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Our visit to the LUME Melbourne to experience the Van Gogh Digital art gallery was absolutely captivating. The immersive journey through his history and the experiences that influenced his art was truly amazing. I highly recommend checking it out. The depiction of his iconic sunflowers was especially beautiful. They also offer delicious food, so I'd strongly suggest enjoying a meal before arriving. It's an experience that's not to be missed!️
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

I went here for the Monet & Friends exhibition and it was stunning! Everything was so well done! From the visuals, the audio and even the little waterlily set ups, you are bound to be impressed. They even had a café/restaurant with a French-inspired menu inside so you could eat while you watch. Though it is a little pricey, it is a worthwhile experience and also pretty informative (there's a room filled with descriptions of the artists whose work is used). The LUME is perfect for art lovers.

Such a great outing for the family! We took my Nannie here for her 83rd birthday, and she absolutely loved it! She has a walker so it's great that you don't need to move too much once you are in. It is a very immersive experience with the music and 360 projections so it’s a great way to experience art in a different way. There are some lovely photo opportunities too. My advice to anyone who gets motion sick like me is don't look at the floor too much.

Allow yourself at least an hour to view this amazing display of Aboriginal artwork and culture. The visual effects are a stunning as they move across the floor and walls. So much to take in and absorb. The narrative is informative and gives a really great understanding of the Aboriginal peoples connection to country. Magnificent exhibition, I highly recommend it.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Loved the immersive nature of the gallery exhibits- both with Van Gogh and Monet and friends. I wish they had this when I studied art history many years ago- would have made it much more fun and being able to interact with some of the paintings was fabulous! Such an enjoyable way to appreciate art works and the well know artists that created them. I was disappointed that I couldn't smell the scents that were meant to accompany the show.

Gorgeous exhibition of indigenous art. Helped me appreciate it more by pairing it with photos of actual landscape, music and the movement. Highly recommended. There's only a few rooms so find a comfy spot, sit and enjoy the show. I took a star off as it is expensive and I initially you feel like there isn't enough content. If you can sit and enjoy the show you will appreciate it. It does loop after an hour which is your signal to leave.

fave part of the gallery was their french themed cafe : Café de Flore , sitting here while sipping coffee was so relaxing! this experience transported me to a new world of art and culture, where traditional and modern elements seamlessly intertwined, immersing me in a symphony of light, color, and sound. I couldn't help but feel like I was part of the art itself! it was really magical. must visit when you are in Melbourne

This is such a wonderful sensory experience - sound the most beautiful music, smell - subtle aromas to go with the paintings and these paintings provide the visual beauty. The whole experience is deeply relaxing yet stimulating at the same time. We stopped in the Parisian cafe for a glass of Prosecco- the staff were efficient and friendly. There is an opportunity to sketch along with an instructive video up on the wall.

Wow what an art exhibition. This is a must go and worth every dollar. You will experience the art that you seen so many times from a totally new perspective and with a deeper understanding what the artists wanted express. I loved the quotes and highly recommend to take the time, sit down and have a coffee and just enjoy. Make sure you go and try the drawing experience. I was surprised how much fun it was.

Incredible digital exhibition 'Connection' of First Nations Art and Music. Beautifully built and presented, nice and quiet on a Thursday afternoon. Not cheap but the extra $1 on the ticket price for unlimited returns while this show is on makes it pretty good value as is definitely something you could do more than once. Have seen Van Gough and other digital exhibitions and this tops the list.

Such a tranquil place amongst the busyness of the city. Loved the lounge beds. Could have stayed there the whole day. The connections display was breathtaking. The kids enjoyed the holiday art class. We learnt a lot about indigenous art from our guide. The staff were friendly, respectful and knowledgeable.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

I loved this digital art exhibition so much. I have never been one to visit a gallery and appreciate the artwork. This experience however was way more than l expected. It was fascinating, emotional and mesmerising. The addition of music took it to another level. The digital display brought it to life. Learning about Van Gogh, his life and art was an experience l will never forget.

Two visits for two remarkable shows. If you like art and wonderful music this is the place for you. Try the floor level and the upper deck for different perspectives. The Monet presentation includes other interesting short films and there is a separate section on the lower level offering a drawing class. If you want to buy something from the gift shop pick up the soundtrack.

One of the most exciting exhibitions on Van Gogh works. It is a very creative way to interpret his art work at a larger than life size scale. We were lucky that it is a quiet day on Tuesday. Not a lot of people. We could enjoy the show without a people filled space. We can take a lot of good photo shoots. It could be expensive to some but the experience is epic.

The LUME was a great space, I loved how big the room was and how nice and relaxing it felt. I strongly recommend to have a drink or a bite at the cafe as this was what made my experience so much more worth it as I could enjoy the whole experience with a cup of tea ☺️
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

I went to the Van Gogh exhibition as it is about to close and I didn't want to miss out. It was really good, stayed for one and a half hours. Didn't eat anything at the Cafe, it was a bit limited and I have dietary requirements. As usual, the gift shop was expensive. The staff were very friendly and helpful. Was well worth seeing the exhibition.

The experience itself is wonderful however it got overcrowded very fast. Had 10am tickets and by 10:25 it was wall to wall folks and lots of children. This may just be because of the holidays but with that many folks it was hard to engage with the program.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

A symphony of joy celebrating the life of Van Gough through image, music and movement. It is breathtaking and slowness of the multimedia clams the audience - first time I witness people siting still watching not their phone. I loved the sensory experience and learned more about the life and artistic journey of Van Gough.

Blown away by this experience. I could have spent half a day here. I spent two hours but only because my parking on the street ran out. I could go back and be able see and hear something new and find new moments of awe. #awemoment
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

I totally rate this Immersive experience as really superb. I took my daughter who wanted to go. I Didn't know what to expect, but I was blown away. We could have sat there for hours and just soaked in Van Gogh's beautiful pieces.. The music matched with this exhibition was really well done. Can't rave enough about it.

Amazing immersive experience! We’ve been to three shows here now and they were incredible every time. Great experience whether you’re just visiting or a Melbourne resident. Also great for kids with their “Little Lume” section.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

I’ve been to the LUME 4 times. Twice for pleasure and twice for work. I took my client who has a disability there and he absolutely LOVED IT!!! As the projections were moving on the walls and floors it kept it very interesting for him. The staff were also so lovely and so accomodating to us. Highly recommend.

Love the ambience of the gallery! It was a beautiful and splendid experience. I was blown away by how perfectly they combined Van Gogh’s painting and the background music! I sat on the floor for hours just absorbing all the vibes. Highly recommend people to visit ! An absolute five stars from me

"Connection " was showing, which was amazing. The different effects were so mesmerising. We watched it through many times from different spots, seeing different things every time. The First Nation Artists have done an outstanding job in providing art for this experience. I would recommend to everyone

If you are looking for a unique experience this exhibition is a must. Perfect date night to impress your lady or sophisticated man. After reading all about Van Gogh’s life you enter the experience room and it’s WOW! Definitely check out the cafe with beautiful snacks. Well worth the ticket price.

Beautiful array of wildlife and majestic placed depicted on large screens larger than life. Don't miss this exhibition of David Attenborough in The Lume Melbourne. Only showing Melbourne and London
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

I freaking LOVE THISSSSS! Just need to sit down, relax and enjoy all the art, the beautiful paintings and the incredible music. Cant describe how much I love this experience. This really made my trip to Melbourne most memorable, easily one of the best art experience in my life!

Enjoyed the connections exhibition just as much as the Van Gogh one last time I visited. The food at the cafe which was native ingredients was incredible too, would highly recommend. Extra points for playing Baker Boy - Meditjin during the exhibition, I love that track!

Visited The Lume to check out the Van Gogh exhibition. It's amazing. I've already made plans to go back again next weekend. $50 a ticket and there's no time limit on how long you can spend in there. Child and disability friendly, perfect for all ages & occasions.

Depending on the showcasing arts and theme, it could be pretty good. The previous Monet theme was very pretty, however, I personally found the connection theme wasn't the best.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Breath taking displays - enjoyed how there were multiple smaller sections to explore, a cafe and upstairs section as well! Good entertainment for 1 - 2 hours.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

Didn't know what to expect from reading about it online but once we got there it was a great experience. It's a wall to floor installation projecting paintings onto the wall. If you decide to go you'll get the best view from the mezzanine.

Incredible experience and very well thought and put together exhibits. I’ve visited both experiences and was absolutely blown away by the creativity and level of reality! Would absolutely recommend!! Looking forward to future exhibits!

Our family just loved it, it exceeded our expectations. We’ve also been to Van Gogh and Monet. As a family we thought this was better. I look forward to coming back again (not on a weekend) either by myself or with friends. Loved it!

Great experience overall. Highly recommend sitting at the cafe/restaurant inside the Gallery watching the art. Thoroughly enjoyed the experience!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Went to see Connection featuring Aboriginal artists and the themes that inspire them. I loved the way sound, pictures of people and landscapes, narrations and painting illuminations were combined to created an immersive experience.

Great interactive art display. I went with my partner who got bored very quickly, so I’d wished I had gone on my own. There is a very busy cafe in there if you have time and would like to sit back and enjoy from one of the tables.

One of the best exhibitions I’ve seen. So immersive and engaging. The lay down bed things were a great touch. We saw “Connection” and even our 4 year old (usually restless) remained engaged for around 35 mins! “Woah” he said. More

An amazing and surreal experience! Find a quiet place to sit and be amazed. The whole show runs for about 45 minutes and takes you on a journey through indigenous history and culture. A spectacle that will give you goosebumps!

Had the best afternoon here. Alongside the exhibition there’s a cute cafe where you can sit relax and enjoy the show, a chance to try your hand at drawing and a full hour of immersive surround sound video. Great experience!

This is a wonderful display of Australia's indigenous culture and country, water, and sky. The experience is immersive, meditative, intuitive, and inspirational. I enjoy every part of it and it is well worth the entry fee.

The Aboriginal art display was brilliant. Just sitting on the floor and being fully immersed in the experience was excellent. Tickets were approx $50 each but you could stay as long as you wanted so not too bad cost-wise.

We witnessed an amazing exhibition titled Connections. This was curated by First Nations people and it was beautiful. Highly recommend.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Brilliant exhibition of Monet & Friends made for a wonderful afternoon at The Lume. Melbourne is lucky to have this venue & all ages of people were enjoying the beauty of art in a unique way. So glad I was one of them.

Great place for visiting with colorful art. LUME offers a captivating experience, showcasing the dynamic fusion of art and light that beautifully narrates the rich history of Australia's Aboriginal people More

Went here on 3 separate occasions for the Van Gogh, Monet, and Connection exhibition. All of these past exhibitions were amazing in sound design and the art pieces featured. I recommend anyone to visit here.

This display of Australian Aboriginal art at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre was amazing and thoroughly worth the visit.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

A great exhibition showcasing the creative prowess of Australia's First Nation artists. Recommended for family hangout.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

I'd need to go back more and see different exhibits but the whole projection exhibition is really great and fun to be in. There's a small cafe/restaurant area inside which has alright food and drinks.

This is the second art experience we have seen at the Lume, the first being Van gogh. Connections was equally amazing, incredibly well done, informative and completely absorbing. Absolutely loved it!

Great indigenous exhibition, Connection, plus delicious lunch while continuing to enjoy the whole experience.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

I went because there was an extra ticket. And now I wish I'd have been a dozen times or so. I never would have bothered except my wife loves Starry Night and it was a chance to spend some time

Amazing experience. A must to see! We also had high tea which was flavoursome and service second to none!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

An informative experience immersed into First Nations hidtory and culture in an amazing visual art form.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

We love The Lume.The shows brilliantly convey art visually and aurally in a way a static show cannot. We've not missed a show yet and have no intention of missing any future shows.

relaxing atmosphere with cafe/restaurant, authentic aboriginal art paintings, an infinity mirror room, interactive play and huge projections on the walls and floor... enjoyable

Food for the soul. It will have you walking more slowly and thoughtfully on the way out than you did on the way in. My tip: get an annual pass. You will want to come back. More

The digital art shows are magnificent events for both the adults and kids of any age. Try to attend the early morning sessions if you have kids, then they can explore easiest.

This experience made me intoxicated:) I think I stayed inside for almost 2 hours. Everything was great but I wish there was more information about the artists and their work.

Lovely lights and some cool places to sit down and relax!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

A really chill and relaxing place to enjoy all those impressive arts! Definitely a must visit place for modern arts exhibition in Melbourne.

Beautiful Experience. Must do activity in Melbourne.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

A Christmas gift of TIX to the LUME. What a treat. Loved it. There is space for all, but timed entry keeps it from being overcrowded

Just mind blowing, getting in touch with the country and embracing the culture
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
1 hr+

Went here to watch the Monet and Friends digital art exhibition, Loved every bit of it! The cafe gave a very French Vibe.

Stunning light installation!! A must visit when in Melbourne.
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

'Connection' ~ Celebration of the First Nations . A beautiful immersive visual and music experience. …

Nice place to visit and my kids love it. Ticket is expensive for AUD90+ for 2 adults.
Visited on…
More

Such an informative, inspirational, must see exhibition! Take the kids! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️