This summer, NGV Friday Nights transforms the gallery after dark in a celebration of self-expression inspired by two of fashion’s most influential designers – Vivienne Westwood and Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons.
NGV will open its doors late every Friday night where visitors can explore Westwood | Kawakubo after hours, an exhibition tracing five decades of groundbreaking designs that have re-shaped the look of fashion.
In addition to exhibition access, each week the NGV becomes a stage for sound and spectacle, with DJ sets from some of Australia’s most exciting names, including Breaking and Entering, Adriana, DJ Manchild, YO! Mafia, Small Fry, Claire Knight, Tanzer, Yeo and Danny Issues.
With nostalgic classics from the 70s, 80s, and 90s alongside favourite summer dance tunes, NGV Friday Nights during Westwood | Kawakubo captures the eclectic energy that defines both designers’ worlds.
Adding to the atmosphere, visitors can enjoy dining and bar experiences throughout the Ground Level of NGV International, including share-style plates, snacks and a curated drinks while taking in the Friday Nights DJ line-up and in NGV Gallery Kitchen, a relaxed setting for light dishes and drinks the perfect complement to the exhibition experience.
Pop-up bars and experiences include the Moët & Chandon Champagne Bar, serving Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut and Rosé Impérial; the Yering Station Wine Bar, offering curated Yarra Valley wines; the Four Pillars Bar, mixing signature gin cocktails that capture the flavours of summer; and the Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream Cart, serving premium flavours throughout the season.
On Friday 30 January, NGV Friday Nights presents a special one-night-only collaboration with Midsumma, Australia’s premier queer arts and cultural organisation. As part of Midsumma Festival, a vibrant line-up of LGBTQIA+ DJs and roving performances features at NGV Friday Nights, celebrating the spirit of creative self-expression that unites both Westwood and Kawakubo.
“Vivienne Westwood and Rei Kawakubo have redefined fashion and showed the world how clothes can be an unparalleled vehicle for self-expression. This season of NGV Friday Nights celebrates the legacy of the designers and invites visitors to experience their radical creativity,” said Tony Ellwood AM, Director, NGV.
Westwood | Kawakubo is on display until 19 April 2026. NGV Friday Nights runs every Friday until 17 April 2026 at NGV International. For more information, visit: www.ngv.vic.gov.au for details.
Image: NGV International facade – photo by Eugene Hyland