From the outset Herbert Vogel, a postal clerk, and Dorothy Vogel, a librarian, appear to endure a rather simple existence. However, their passion for collecting Minimalist and Conceptual artworks, two forms that were generally dismissed by curators in the 1960s, illuminates their eye for identifying quality art. 

Herb and Dorothy is an inspiring, heart warming film that documents the art collecting practices of the couple from the 1960’s through to the early 1990s. The film offers a refreshing take on the practice of art collecting, whereby quality of craftsmanship rather than price is of the essence. This is especially clear when rather than sell off their 2000 piece collection boasting the likes of Chuck Close, Lynda Benglish and Lucio Pozzi, Herb and Dorothy donate it to the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC for the general public to enjoy. 

The film was released in 2008, and is available at all good video stores.

Many of us aspire to attend a fashion show as a member of the coveted front row, to view the incredible designs of an array of Australia’s most celebrated designers up close and delve into the drama that occurs backstage…  

A must see for the fashion enthusiasts among us, Frock Stars is an exhibition capable of transforming these aspirations into reality. By showcasing the previously undisclosed behind-the-scenes operation of Rosemount Australian Fashion Week the exhibition invites you to imagine yourself as a member of the fashion elite.  

Where: The Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo
When: 22^nd April – 29^th August 
Cost: $25 for a family, $10 adult, $6 concession, $5 child/student. Free for Powerhouse members.

Melbourne><Brisbane: punk, art and after  is an exhibition that illustrates the connection between the social and political conditions of the 1970s and early 80s in Melbourne and Brisbane, and the music and art emerging out of the two cities at that time.

With a particular focus on punk music, the exhibition compares and contrasts the punk bands emerging out of the two cities, such as The Lunatic Fringe and The Go-Betweens, and traces their influence on punk music in Australia since then.

While this exhibition does focus on the punk music genre, art, photography and history enthusiasts will also enjoy this fascinating exhibition.

Where: Ian Potter Museum of Art, University of Melbourne

When:  February 24 – May 16

Contact: www.art-museum.unimelb.edu.au