The Pool: Architecture, Culture and Identity

An 11m long pool will be transported to the National Gallery of Victoria for The Pool: Architecture, Culture and Identity, an exhibition that celebrates and explores one of Australia's greatest cultural symbols.  

A multi-sensory installation of water, light, scent and sound, The Pool is an interactive space, complete with wooden decking and pool lounge chairs, that reveals the connection between landscape, culture and architecture through a singular architectural form.

Tony Ellwood, Director, NGV, said, -Whether natural or manmade, inland or coastal, pools are undeniably linked to the Australian lifestyle and our national psyche. We encourage visitors to dangle their feet in the water or relax poolside as they reflect on the idea of the pool as a place of cultural exchange, socialising, competition and reminiscence.'

The exhibition holds its Australian premiere following a successful showing at the 2016 Venice Architecture Biennale where it received more than 100,000 visitors. It was presented by the Australian Institute of Architects and curated by Aileen Sage Architects (Isabelle Toland and Amelia Holliday) with Michelle Tabet.