Fair Ambassador Henny Scott’s Guide to Naarm

As a freelance art advisor, Henny Scott has worked on diverse art projects with emerging and celebrated artists, art collectors, interior designers and commercial galleries from Australia, Indonesia, Maldives, Singapore and USA and has relocated back to Naarm after spending 22 years in South East Asia where she played a pivotal role as a key connector in the art community.

Henny speaks with Melbourne Art Fair about some of her favourite places to eat, drink and play in Naarm/Melbourne.

Best restaurants to treat yourself to a feast?

Cuccineta, South Yarra
This petite restaurant in South Yarra is truly a hidden gem. Thanks to the young art collector extra ordinaire, Nikita Le Messurier for introducing this place through her Instagram story, the restaurant serves truly exceptional Italian food and hospitality. I have tried most things in the menu and always looking forward to finding a reason to return.

The Stokehouse, St Kilda
Located just 10 minutes walk from my home, this gorgeous St Kilda beachfront has got to be my number one favourite spot to dine with loved ones. With stunning views of Port Philip Bay, consistency in flavour and great service, it is not hard to keep coming back whether for a special occasion upstairs, a casual fish and chips night or just some spritz and cicchetti to watch as the sun goes down.

The Stokehouse. Photography: Gareth Sobey for Broadsheet.

Spot to grab a drink after a day of exploring the Fair?

Kirk’s Wine Bar, CBD
Kirk’s Wine Bar is a great meeting spot after hours of exploring art or a day of shopping. Headed by TV personality, Chef Ian Curley, this place has the vibes and wine list to match for boozing in the city.

Kirk’s Wine Bar. Courtesy Visit Victoria.

Your go-to for exploring art in the city?

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), CBD

Some of the best art collections are not only in private hands, but also at NGV. Melbourne art lovers rejoiced when the major survey of globally celebrated artist Yayoi Kusama, who is without a doubt the 21st century’s most important female living artist, finally opened at NGV. This summer blockbuster show reveals nearly 200 multidisciplinary works spanning across eight decades of practice and many of them hold historical significance, such as Narcissus Garden which was first presented at the 1966 Venice Biennale

Having followed this artist’s journey since 2012 and viewed six of her retrospective shows internationally, the show at NGV does not disappoint at all. Showing now until 21 April.

NGV Design Store is also my go to place for gift-giving. There is always something for everyone, every occasion and every budget including the annual Gift membership to treat your loved ones.