Monsalvat

WARNING: This post comes with lots of photos....16 to be precise!

Which isn't bad really considering that during my visit to Monsalvat in Eltham, I actually took 40 in total.....without even trying.

Imagine my delight when a friend invited me to join her for a visit to Montsalvat.  It had been on my list of places to visit for quite a while, but for various reasons previously, I hadn't managed. 

So I was thrilled to finally appreciate this amazing place where inspiration permeates every pore of your being as you wander through the beautifully aging buildings.

From its beginnings in the middle of the 1930's it was a centre of creative activity and remains so to this day and is still ‘home’ to a number of artists, including painters, sculptors, instrument-makers and jewellery makers. Many live at Montsalvat, while others choose to visit in order to teach classes or workshops.

 

(The Meeting Pool restaurant)

Montsalvat was founded by Justus Jörgensen and is Australia’s oldest artists’ colony and home to practising artists. It remains to this day a working not-for-profit arts centre administered by a board. Set in 12 acres of established gardens, the historic buildings include charming mud brick cottages and the impressive Great Hall.

To read Justus's complete biography click here 

 (The Meeting Pool restaurant entrance)

In 1935 Jörgensen purchased land and with his friends commenced work on the buildings that became Montsalvat. The first buildings were two small ‘French Provincial’ style cottages where they could stay at weekends. One was referred to affectionately as 'Lil's House'. Lily was Jutus' wife.

(Entrance to The Barn Gallery)

During World War II Monsalvat become almost self-sufficient with a market garden, poultry farm and small dairy. Several more buildings were hastily built for the ‘farm’ - the dairy, barn, stables, silos and storehouses belong to this period.

There are gardens, steps, nooks, twists and turning paths to explore, whilst soaking up the creative energy which radiates from every aging stone and building. 

There always seems to be a surprise around the corner or at the top of a flight of stairs.

(The ornamental pool)

Jörgensen had the ability to make use of whatever material was at hand. The earth and stone from the excavations formed the walls, with other materials sourced from wreckers’ and builders’ yards across Melbourne.

 ( The Bluestone Chapel )

The Chapel was the last building to be completed before Justus Jorgensen died in 1975. Despite failing health, Justus taught himself to drive a small cubdozer in order to move bluestones to the building site. Completion of the chapel became his obsession as he made it known this was where he wanted to be buried. 

Montsalvat is a stunning location and has been used for photographic shoots from fashion shoots to a large-scale TV production. From the splendour of the Great Hall to the old-fashioned charm of the white mudbrick stables, there are many locations within the 12 acre property to choose from. 

Montsalvat is also the perfect setting for a romantic wedding.

Every path invites you to explore....

 ( The Great Hall)

This mainly stone building includes two galleries, a studio and a large dining hall.

An artists cottage with actual resident artist in situ...take a peek through the window....

Artists can reside at Monsalvat from 2 weeks up to 6 weeks and sometimes further. 

Jörgensen established Montsalvat as an arts colony and centre for creativity in all its forms. Montsalvat still fulfils this vision through its resident artist community and strong focus on events presentation and educational development. Whilst artists are encouraged to focus on their own work there are opportunities to come together within the Montsalvat community to share their inspiration, research and talent. 

Workshops are available...

Check out the website for futher details...click here

Some of the other stunning residents of Monsalvat...

(The whitebrick stable block)

I had a wonderful day and even though my friend wasn't happy that the sun didn't shine...I think Monsalvat shone enough without it!

One last photo just in case you're not into art or architecture....how about some rusty machinery?

 I hope you enjoyed your visit to Monsalvat. It's a magical place and one I know I'll revisit soon.

Have a great week...wherever you are :D

Seven Seas of Rye

Seven Seas of Rye.....

‘Seven Seas’ of Rye became our weekend retreat for a much needed rejuvenation of our batteries a few weeks ago. The house was perfect and so homely with everything we could need and then some. If you would like to take a peek at the interior and further details just click here

 

The first evening we had a BBQ ~ the garden was so large at the rear that an impromptu footy match kicked off. Also table tennis equipment, darts and a soccer table available, so the boys were quickly in full activity mode...which was wonderful to see. 

Not a mobile phone in sight!

Rye is situated on the Mornington Peninsula, which is just a short drive outside of Melbourne, so a perfect location when you want to nip away for a few days, but still be on hand if need be. It really does feel a different world from the city.  

 

Rye extends southwards across the narrow width of the Mornington, right down to the coastline fronting the open waters of Bass Strait. The Mornington Peninsula National Park spans the foreshore here, consisting of scenic walking tracks, rocky coastal features, dunes and pockets of sandy beach. A pathway and steps extends from Tasman Drive down to the sandy bay at Number 16 Beach.

We had some really great weather on the Saturday so it had to be spent appreciating the beach. We virtually had it to ourselves. The sand and surf were brilliant... couldn’t you just sit and watch the waves for hours....I know I could.

There’s something about smooth, clean untouched fresh sand that makes me just want to put footprints all over it...(maybe that’s a little too much information).

 

Yep they are my footprints...I couldn’t resist making my mark!

And then there's the waves....fantastic surfing!

 I have to confess I didn't venture in...but I know a man that did!

 We obviously had to sample the local recommended fare...visiting Peninsula Pantry for breakfast....
It can be a little tricky to locate so maybe check out their link here to make sure you find it. 

 Do you know how looooong I had to wait for these chairs to be vacant before I could take the photo? It's such a popular place for brekky.

But then look what was inside....and this was only one counter!

Because it was the weekend and everyone knows that calories don't count at the weekend, we sampled lots of culinary delights. 

Steam the Asian Restaurant is highly recommended... I'm sorry no personal photos on this occasion but the boy's people tend to get a little techy when food is delayed due to photographic opportunities! 

Steam in essence is hot, fresh and clean... these are the qualities reflected in their modern Asian fusion style menu. If you enjoy fresh and local seafood ~ look no further you will be in your element.

After all this self indulgence there's only one way to end the day....at the Peninsula Hot Spring...ahh...now 's that's special.

 

Peninsula Hot Springs is the first natural hot springs day spa centre in Victoria, Australia.

Natural hot mineral waters flow into the thermal pools and private baths providing the idyllic setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. There are two main areas - the Bath house, which offers over 25 bathing experiences and the Spa Dreaming Centre, which offer a wide variety of treatments and private mineral baths. The 50°C naturally hot mineral spring water flows from an underground aquifer 637 metres below the surface. The water  runs untouched direct from the source to the pools, which range between 37°C and 43°C. 

Peeeeerrrrrrrfect!

Peninsula Hot Springs thermal mineral water contains a range of naturally occurring minerals including sulphur, calcium, magnesium, potassium and many others and is classified as a “Sodium Chloride Bicarbonate Spring” (Na-Cl.HCO3). If you're into the science of it all....personally I just love the heat ;D

The Bath House has over 20 bathing experiences on offer with areas suitable for visitors of all ages including a Hill Top pool (right) with 360 deg views, reflexology walk, Turkish steam room, sauna, cave pool, family bathing area, 16 years+ bathing area and many more.  Lunches and light morning and afternoon snacks are provided too, just in case you get a little peckish. Plus they are open from 7:30 am till 10 pm daily. AGAIN...perfect!

Because the Seven Sea's accommodation is located so handy to the Springs, it was brilliant to nip later in the evening with the added bonus of their cheaper rate! How convenient and luxurious to have a hot spring on your doorstep. No personal photo here due to the fact I didn't want to try and carry a camera around the springs, but mainly because you're NOT seeing me in my cossie! No matter what! Trust me I know what's best....

Now what would be next on an indulgence break....to visit a winery of course. So where was the nearest vineyard to the house....The Cups Estate located on the Browns Road, Fingal. When we first arrived a huge shower lashed down, but suprisingly as the wine tasting got under way the sun came out!

The Cups Estate story is one which began in 1955 whilst a young Joe Fisicaro was working on his grandfather’s farm in Balranald- Southern NSW. Whilst toiling in the fields he dreamt of one day owning a farm and producing the same quality produce his grandfather had achieved. Years passed but the seed to plant a vineyard was sewn in those early years. To read more about the interesting family business click on the link here.

The cellar door takes advantage of breathtaking views with its floor to ceiling windows and round bar. It overlooks the vineyard, neighbouring Moonah Links Golf Course and the magnificent dune region known as ‘the cups’.

We did arrive a little late in the afternoon, but that didn't deter the staff from making us feel welcome.  

Patrick the wine taster appeared magically (like a genie from the bottle literally) as if from nowhere within minutes of our arrival. His expertise was second to none but with such a friendly approach. Although my OH might not agree I think we still have so much to learn and Patrick was very patient with us. If you visit The Cups Estate' say 'Hi' from us.

 In fact all the staff were very friendly and the kitchen produced beautiful chocolate and mascaponi desserts, plus tea and coffee even though the kitchen had shut 10 minutes earlier. Now that really impressed me :D

Another end to a perfect day....sitting and eating whilst gazing over the landscape, offered a great atmosphere of relaxed fun..

 And yes you guessed it....after sampling numerous wines we had to bring a few box away. Well who could resist? The Merlot in particular.

Certainly not us...so we will enjoy a glass and reminise over the coming months.

 Oh and we did manage to visit Rosebud and Sorrento too...both being so close.

 Sorrento has a rich history believed to be the first European settlement in Victoria discovered in 1803 and later developed as a tourist destination for the rich and famous by George Coppin from the 1870’s. It is in this era that some of the magnificent limestone buildings were built in the township.There's lots of interesting sights and buildings to check out ~ not to mention the shops of course.

My SiL and I wandered through the many beautiful galleries and shops. (Ooops I said not to mention the shops) But isn't it complulsory for females to shop wherever they go?

After an intensive search she successfully purchased a beautiful painting from the above gallery, which hopefully is winging it's way from sunny Sorrento to unfortunately chilly Cheshire in the UK, as I type! The painting is a beach scene which hopefully will radiate light and warmth for years to come.

Meanwhile as long as my son received regular calorific intake of gigantic proportions, he managed the traumas of accompanying us. No wonder he's 6'....

Unfortunately my OH could only sneak a peek at the nearby golf courses available due to time restraints, but then I'd have liked to have taken one of the many horse-riding opportunities too...so there's nothing for it...we just HAVE to go back and soon!

 

 The perfect weekend getaway all within just over an hours drive away from Melbourne's CBD...rather special I think ;D

The Twenty Melbourne Painters Society Inc. 2011 Annual Exhibition

Last night I went to the opening preview of The Twenty Melbourne Painters Society Inc. 2011 Annual Exhibition here in Melbourne.
They are celebrating 93 years of traditional painting and as you can imagine having a venue filled with such special, talented Artists, was an absolute privilege and I thoroughly enjoyed the evening.

The Society has been established since 1918, the Twenty Melbourne Painters Society enjoys the distinction of being one of Australia’s oldest arts organizations and occupies a unique position in Australian art, both past and present. Many distinguished artists have been members of the group and contributed to its colourful 93 year history.

Unfortunately, I was so involved with events, that I completely forgot to take any photo's to show you, but here's a few links that you may like to see.....

http://www.paulmcdonaldsmith.com/TwentyMelbournePaintersSociety.html

My particular favourite artist is Joseph Zbukvic. Two of my girlfriends have actually bought some of his work which was very exciting. My favourite painting is the Chefs...

My friend purchased this at last years exhibition and it now hangs in her kitchen....the perfect location...well, maybe not? I think it would be much better hanging in my kitchen!

Here's a link to his website and there's also a few video's which are fascinating.

http://jzbukvic.com/

There's some amazing paintings on display at the Exhibition, so if you are in the Melbourne area, you really should try to visit...

Daily from July 27th - August 7th, 2011, Hours:10:00am - 5:00pm

Glen Eira City Art Gallery - Cnr Glen Eira and Hawthorn Rds, Caulfield, Melbourne.

Mirka Mora at Heidi Art Gallery

Yesterday, I was finally able to use my son's Christmas present.

It wasn't the usual CD, Cookery Book or Perfume (although there's nothing wrong with any of these presents and I would have gratefully accepted any one of them) but this present came without wrapping, no tell-tell lumps and bumps, or perfumed smell - just a thin envelope.

I was intrigued....

Inside it contained an invitation to have the honour of meeting Mirka Mora, at the Heidi Museum of Modern Art for arvo tea (afternoon tea for people outside of Australia).

(The Heidi Museum of Modern Art)

It was brilliant to sit amongst Mirka's paintings and listen to her reminisce about various times in her life. She is an incredible inspiration, not only for her Art, but to live life to the full. The only time the smile evaporated and reluctance came across was when the curator mentioned her lucky escape from entering Aacuschwitz and the Germans, but then she beamed her smile across the room proclaiming how lucky she had been. I was left with the impression that she could have talked for hours, in her beautiful Parisienne accent about so many interesting times, and I for one would have happily sat and listened, as I'm sure would the rest of the visitors in the room.

We later moved on from the Gallery for tea, sandwiches and cakes, taking a leisurely stroll through the gardens.
Mirka took time with everyone and her personal charisma shone like a beacon.

Signing autographs and even impromtu drawings, whilst constantly entertaining everyone with her wicked sense of humour and infectious smile.

The painting of the rear glass windows at Heidi.

The afternoon light coming through the window is perfect to show off her work.

I love this picture of Mirka.....

A little information....
Madeleine 'Mirka' Zelik was born in Paris in 1928 to a Jewish Lithuanian father, Leon Zelik, and a Romanian Jewish mother, Celia 'Suzanne' Gelbein. In post-war Paris at the tender age of 17 Mirka met her future husband, Georges Mora. They soon married and their first son, Philippe was born in 1949. Two years later the young family emigrated to Australia where they became the centre of a flowering artistic and intellectual Melbourne. Mirka had early training in mime and drama but it is painting that has been her focus. She had two more sons but still managed to pursue a successful artistic career. She works in a range of media including drawing, painting, embroidery and doll-making, and has made numerous public artworks including mosaic murals at Flinders Street Station. In 1999 she had a major retrospective at the Heide Museum of Modern Art which was seen by 16,000 people. In 2002 she was made Officier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French government. She lives in Melbourne alongside her son William and his family, and continues to paint daily

To find out more about Mirka and her amazing life...
http://www.intprods.com/pdf/WickedButVirtuous.pdf