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Explore sustainable design through plant-based materials and Indigenous knowledge at this free NGV event.
Friday 28 August 2026
1:00pm - 5:30pm
Federation Square, Flinders St &, Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Free
Immerse yourself in an inspiring afternoon of talks featuring leading designers, artists, and researchers who are pioneering sustainable futures through plant-based materials and regenerative design. This event offers a unique opportunity to hear diverse perspectives on how Indigenous knowledge and innovative design intersect to shape a greener tomorrow.
Discover the fascinating stories behind materials like fungi-grown leather and hemp fibreboard, and learn how these natural resources are transforming architecture, furniture, and decorative arts. The event culminates in an exclusive after-hours exhibition tour led by the Senior Curator of Contemporary Design and Architecture.
Whether you're passionate about sustainability, design, or simply curious about the future of materials, this event promises engaging conversations and fresh insights.
The talks run from 13:00 to 17:30 on Friday, 2026-08-28, at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, Fed Square Theatre, Ground Level. Attendance is free but bookings are essential to secure your place.
Speakers include innovators from various fields such as fashion filmmaking, bio-based materials, First Nations architecture, and urban geography. The program highlights the intersection of traditional craft and cutting-edge sustainable design.
This event is suitable for adults interested in design, sustainability, and cultural heritage, and is especially relevant for parents wanting to inspire their school-aged children about environmental stewardship and creative futures.
The event takes place at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, located in Federation Square, Melbourne. The venue offers accessible seating and hearing loops to ensure an inclusive experience for all attendees.
Federation Square is easily accessible by public transport, with tram and train options nearby. Parking is limited, so public transit is recommended.
The theatre is on the ground level, making it convenient for families with strollers or mobility aids.
Bookings are required to attend this free event, so be sure to reserve your spot early. The talks are part of a partnership with RMIT University and feature a diverse lineup of experts.
Please arrive a little early to allow time for check-in and seating. The event includes an after-hours exhibition tour, offering a rare chance to explore the Plant Life exhibition with expert guidance.
The event is family-friendly, but the content is geared towards adults and older children with an interest in design and sustainability.
Entry is free, but booking is essential to attend. You can book your place through the NGV website or by contacting the NGV directly.
General enquiries can be made by phone at +61 3 8620 2222 between 9am and 5pm daily, or via the NGV contact online page.
Secure your spot early to avoid disappointment and enjoy a thought-provoking afternoon at one of Melbourne’s premier cultural institutions.
