A Fully Immersive Projected Experience
An inspiring story. A mesmerising spirit. Immerse yourself in the world premiere of Wisdom & Light, a multi-sensory digital art experience.
Experience The Story
Trace the extraordinary journey and mission of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, founder of Fo Guang Shan, one of the world's largest Buddhist organisations.
I am 86 years old this year. I've had a heart operation, my hands are shaking, I cannot see clearly, and walking is not easy either.
But I can still talk.
I can still think, teach, and write."
- Venerable Master Hsing Yun
Witness the journey of a boy born into poverty and oppression, who through indomitable spirit, fortifies his faith and strengthens his resolve to spread the teaching of the Buddha, told through cutting edge projection technology.
Discover the art of one-stroke calligraphy
The experience includes a separate gallery that will chronicle Venerable Master Hsing Yun's life, technique, and influence through rare and valuable calligraphy, and an engaging interactive, calligraphy writing activity.
I have a basic image in my mind, with so many characters that I must write in one stroke. I cannot stop, for if I stop, where could I continue?
Thus I thought to myself, this is One Stroke Calligraphy."
- Venerable Master Hsing Yun
Event Information
1 SEPT - 2 OCT
GOLDEN SQUARE ROOFTOP
Enter via 217 Lonsdale Street, where you can access the event via the stairs to the rooftop.
10am - 10pm daily
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time should we allow for this event?
Allow about 90 minutes to ensure you have enough time to enjoy the full experience.
Will there be food and drinks?
Yes, there will be a range of food on offer at Wisdom & Light Cafe, operating from 12pm to 9pm where vegetarian delicacies are crafted by Melbourne Nobu's former Head Chef.
Can I take photos and videos?
Absolutely and we would love you to share them! Be sure to tag @wisdom.and.light and use the hashtag #wisdomandlight so more people can see the experience through your eyes.
Please be advised that flash photography is not permitted.
Are strollers allowed?
This event is stroller-accessible but strollers are to be parked at the ground floor level and children need to be carried up and down several flights of stairs to the rooftop.
Are school or group discounts tickets available?
Discounted group tickets are available for groups of 15+, please email info@wisdomandlight.com.au.
Is Wisdom & Light family friendly?
Parents and Guardians of minors please note this immersive experience is family friendly and rated PG. While most of the experience can be viewed by all ages, there is a short series of scenes depicting soldiers invading villages, with sounds of bombs exploding and guns being shot in the background. Our event staffs will happily provide any further clarification as may be required.
Directions & Accessibility
Getting Here
Enter Golden Square via 217 Lonsdale Street, where you can access the event via the stairs to the rooftop.
Save the planet and leave your car at home if you can.
Golden Square is conveniently located near most forms of public transport including Melbourne's iconic tram network. Plan your journey via Public Transport Victoria.
Nearest accessible train station: Melbourne Central Station or Flinders Street Station (access via Swanston Street).
Nearest accessible tram stop: Melbourne Central Station/State Library or Bourke Street Mall/Swanston Street.
Accessibility & Inclusion
Wisdom & Light is an inclusive experience and we encourage all to participate and be represented. This experience takes place on the rooftop of a public car park. There is no lift access and participants who do not have mobility needs will be required to traverse several flights of stairs to reach and exit from the rooftop. This includes parents with strollers.
Accessible Transport
For those with mobility needs, we have a designated accessible vehicle transport service operating from the ground floor of the Lonsdale Street entrance to and from the rooftop venue. The vehicle will be driven by Golden Square and event staff, and will be available upon request or can be booked in advance by contacting our Customer Care Team on 03 9671 4539 or 03 9521 3166 or via email at info@wisdomandlight.com.au.
Please also see below information on complimentary tickets for Companion Card holders.
Companion Cards
Companion Card holders are entitled to a free companion event ticket. Please email info@wisdomandlight.com.au your request in advance and present your Companion Card to our box office team on arrival.
Please note no discounts are able to be offered on any food and drink purchases.
Accessible Parking
2 x accessible parking bays are conveniently located just inside the ground floor entrance of Golden Square Carpark - enter via Lonsdale Street. Additional accessible parking can be arranged on arrival by liaising directly with Golden Square Carpark staff who will be on-site throughout all event hours.
Accessible Drop Off
There is a designated area assigned to accessible drop-off via the Lonsdale Street entrance to Golden Square, located just BEFORE car park boom gates. The area will be signposted and Golden Square staff will be available to provide assistance for loading and unloading. There is also an accessible drop-off point located on the north side of Lonsdale Street adjacent to QV - for further details see here.
Accessible Bathrooms
A unisex accessible bathroom is available on the ground floor next to the accessible drop-off point.
Assisted Hearing Loop System
If you are hard of hearing, Golden Square has FM Transmitters/Receivers available to assist you. To book a hearing system in advance, please contact our Customer Care team on 03 9671 4539, email us at info@wisdomandlight.com.au or check with our box office team on arrival.