BORN ROMANTIC by Aretha Brown

FAQs

• How long will it take to view the exhibition?

  The exhibition can be seen in around 30 minutes, however we suggest taking 45-60 minutes to enjoy the works in full, including animations and video components.

• Will there be an opening night celebration?

  Absolutely — we will be celebrating the exhibition on Friday, 25 September.

  Tickets can be found here.

• Are the artworks for sale?

  Yes, all the artworks (except video works) are available for sale.

  Please register for the catalogue wait list here or speak to event staff at your session.

• Will there be merch available?

  Yes, Aretha Brown merch will be available for pre-order here or during ticket purchase.
  Limited additional items will be available for purchase on-site during exhibition opening hours.

• Are my tickets refundable?

  To ensure a smooth experience and manage venue capacity, all tickets are sold for specific dates and hourly entry times.

  • Late Arrival & Grace Period: Please aim to arrive at the start of your booked hour. We offer a 15-minute grace period for late arrivals. If you arrive more than 15 minutes after your time slot begins, entry is subject to venue capacity and is not guaranteed.

  • Missed Time Slots: Tickets are only valid for the date and hourly slot printed on your ticket. If you miss your entry window completely, your ticket becomes invalid and is non-refundable.

  • Rescheduling: You may request to change your time slot up to 24 hours before your scheduled entry, subject to availability. Please Contact Host with your order number and preferred new time.

  • Cancellations & Closures: If the exhibition is forced to close during your booked hour due to unforeseen venue or safety issues, you will receive a full refund or a priority rebooking.

  • No Change of Mind Refunds: All ticket sales are final. Refunds are not provided for change of mind, personal scheduling conflicts, or partial viewing if you arrive late.

  • Transfers: If you cannot attend, you may give your ticket to someone else to use for your exact booked time slot. No name changes are required.

• Is the exhibition suitable for children?

  The exhibition explores queer and mature themes about love, relationships and identity and may contain representations of nudity. Any artworks considered unsuitable for children will be noted throughout the exhibition.

• Is the venue accessible?

  Yes, the Magdalen Laundry and wider Convent grounds are wheelchair accessible, however due to the heritage nature of the site, some walking paths may be uneven. Please reach out to the Convent team for further detail as required.

  There are both accessible and non-gendered bathrooms within the venue.

• Can I bring my dog?

  Your pets are welcome to join you while you wander the Convent grounds, but as the exhibition occurs in a heritage venue, we ask that they are left to enjoy the fresh air outside while you explore the works*. Please note, pups are required to remain on-leash at all times while exploring the Convent grounds.
  
  *Service dogs will be allowed in all spaces.

• Is there parking available on site?

  There is paid car parking on St Heliers Street, across the road from the Convent – rates can be found on the Convent's website.

• What’s the best way to get to the Abbotsford Convent via public transport?

  Train

  You can catch a Mernda or Hurstbridge line train to Victoria Park Station. From there, the Convent is about a 10–15 minute stroll. Or, you can connect via the 200 or 207 bus along Johnston St and get off at the Clarke Street stop, just a short walk from the precinct.

  Tram

  Alternatively, you can take the 86 tram, getting off at the intersection of Smith St & Johnston St. From there, the 207 bus stop is a short walk, which runs along Johnston St. Get off at the Clarke Street stop, just a short walk from the precinct.