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Temple of Boom

Location

NGV International, Saint Kilda Road, Melbourne VIC, Australia

Access

Free during NGV International opening hours (10AM–5PM)

Architectural History

Temple of Boom is the National Gallery of Victoria’s 2022 Architecture Commission by Adam Newman and Kelvin Tsang of architecture firm NWMN. It is an evocative reimagining of the Parthenon on the Acropolis in Athens, which has evolved and changed over its 12 month lifespan, having been painted in layered artworks by a rotation of Melbourne artists.


In their respective styles and mediums, these artists have drawn inspiration from the vibrant colours and rich artistic embellishments which defined the original building. The layering of these artworks over the course of months asks us to consider the effect of time on all architecture, and how since the fifth century BCE, the Parthenon itself has changed in use and form.


Temple of Boom celebrates the constant cultural flux, while also seeking to expand our understanding of the Parthenon as an enduring architectural and cultural beacon. Taking its name from the vibrations of music, Temple of Boom is envisioned as a meeting place for the community and an outdoor venue for a diverse program of NGV-curated performances, programs, and live music across the summer period.


Temple of Boom is a special digital-only inclusion for the Open House 2023 weekend (29–30 July) as the installation is in its final days, and will close after 9 August.


Prompts & Activities

  • Why do you think the architect used Greek influences in this building? How does it relate to its purpose, and the people who would have occupied it?

  • In comparison, how is it used today, and is this thinking still relevant? Or does the modern use of the building subvert its history?

  • How many of the mentioned Greek architectural elements can you see? Can you count columns or other design features? Which types of columns are used, and why do you think this is?


  • What is your favourite element of this building? Does it have interesting ornamentation? What part does this element play in the overall design of the building, and why might it have been included? You might like to draw your favourite components! Observational sketching is a great way to get a deeper understanding of something.

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