The term 'metal head' just got a new meaning. Metartworld is a large space in Port Melbourne dedicated to hundreds of incredible statues made from scrap metal and other recycled materials. There are animals, movie characters, soldiers, cars, motorcycles, princesses and more. It's like someone waved a magic wand in a junkyard and brought everything to life. Unlike at other art galleries, you can touch the exhibits, and taking selfies is actively encouraged.
Meanwhile the permanent Starry Sky exhibition on level two consists of dazzling mirror mazes. There's a colourful Candy Maze, and Enchanted Forest maze, Intergalactic Journey, a Jellyfish Maze and an Abyss Maze with lights seemingly disappearing into infinity. There's also a disorienting 360-degree tunnel to traverse.
Your entry ticket allows access to all of the above, but kids under 15 can also take part in children's workshops. Kids can make their own handbags, keychains, windmills, puzzles, fans, hats, masks, eyewear and more. There are literally hours of distraction for the little ones over the school holidays.
Metartworld also offers more than 60 DIY projects for all ages in the Metart Studio, including the Turkish mosaic series, whipped cream decoration series, plaster doll painting series, sculpture painting collection, fluid bear pouring DIY, miniature box theatre, jewellery beading, shell painting, and embroidery. Prices vary – check the webpage for more information.
Entry tickets are for two-hour sessions and you need to book ahead online. Family passes are a steel (see what we did there?) at $120. Find out more about Metartworld and buy tickets.