The National Gallery of Victoria is one of my most favourite Melbourne places. From the fountains outside where people throw coins, to the wall of water and atrium space as you walk in – and thats before you even get to the exhibits!

In addition to the wonders at the National Gallery on St Kilda Road, the Ian Potter Centre at Federation Square is equally a treat – especially when coupled with ACMI and the fabulous films they show.

Some of Linda Jackson’s work on display at the National Gallery of Victoria

Both the National Gallery and Ian Potter centre regularly show fashion collections and the wonders of fabric and textiles, as does ACMI.

The current collection, housed at the Ian Potter centre at Federation Square, honors Linda Jackson, whom I had the pleasure of meeting at the last Fashion Torque. Linda hails from the same fashion years at the top as the fabulous Jenny Bannister, both of whom are massive advocates for the Australian Fashion Industry.

Bush Couture, Sydney (fashion house) 1982-94
by Linda Jackson
Maasai Africa (1982-88) (cotton, lycra, plastic, metal, glass)

Linda has worked in the Australia Fashion Industry for over 40 years and is also a practicing artist. Her influences draw from Africa, Asia and India and she has spent large amounts of time travelling. Linda Jackson – Bush Couture, is on show at the Ian Potter Centre until September of this year, and Linda is also the subject of many floor talks for the duration of the exhibit.

Linda Jackson and Jenny Bannister, image thanks to Fashion Torque

So should you find a few hours spare on a Sunday afternoon, there is really nothing better than educating yourself on the history of Australian Fashion and the stalwarts who made our industry what it is today. With the passing of Sheila Scotter this week, also an Fashion icon, we are the ones who must remember these amazing fashionistas who paved the way for the rest of us.

National Gallery of Victoria, Linda Jackson: Bush Couture, is open until September, 2012.
Entry is free.