Step Into the Home of Karl Duldig: Sculptor, Survivor, Storyteller
Step inside the former home and studio of sculptor Karl Duldig and artist Slawa Horowitz-Duldig – where art, history, and family life come together.
Tucked away in suburban Malvern East, the Duldig Studio Museum and Sculpture Garden offers far more than a glimpse of beautiful sculptures. It’s an intimate look into the lives of two extraordinary European artists who made Melbourne their home. From their preserved studio and home to the peaceful garden dotted with Karl’s sculptures, this museum tells a deeply personal story of creativity, resilience and migration.
What is Duldig Studio?
The Duldig Studio is the former home, studio and garden of the émigré art-power couple Karl Duldig (1902–1986) and Slawa Duldig (née Horowitz, 1901–1975). After their arrival in Australia and subsequent life here, their residence in Malvern East has been preserved as a house museum, gallery and sculpture garden.
Inside you’ll find the original rooms, studio tools, personal objects, artworks (sculptures, paintings, drawings), and in the garden, many of Karl’s bronze and terracotta sculptures still in situ. Rather than just a gallery showing isolated works, the place offers a lived-in space: art, design, biography and history intertwined — a 1930s Viennese apartment transported to Melbourne’s suburbs.
Why It’s Worth A Visit
There are several features that make the Duldig Studio stand out:
Personal & historical narrative: The lives of Karl and Slawa involve dramatic chapters — Vienna, escaping Nazism, internment in Australia, and rebuilding life and career.
Unique collection: Karl’s sculptural practice, including terracotta and bronze works, their studio environment, and Slawa’s design and invention (notably the foldable umbrella) make this more than a standard art gallery.
Architecture and garden: The original home and garden-studio setting offer a sense of continuity and atmosphere rarely found in city galleries.
Educational and hands-on programs: Guided tours, clay workshops, and school-holiday programs make it suitable for all ages.
Off the beaten track: It’s often described as a “hidden gem” — an intimate experience away from the crowds.
Kathy’s review
At the Duldig gallery and museum in Malvern, we had an informative afternoon and a somewhat satisfying experience. I was especially keen to explore this museum as I had long-held questions about Raoul Wallenberg, and I was completely unaware of this museum’s existence, even though I worked just a stone’s throw away for decades.
The premises is the family home of the Melbourne artist and sculptor, Karl Duldig. The home, gardens and studio are lovingly maintained by a team of passionate volunteers who engage enthusiastically with their guests through a guided tour and a refreshing afternoon tea.
On arrival, visitors view a short video that briefly explains the artist’s family history of persecution under Nazism. His family escaped Europe, fleeing first to France, then eventually to Australia. This chapter of their story was particularly fascinating. The video was followed by a tour of the sculptor’s studio and garden, each revealing his philosophy and unique artistic style.
After years of determined effort, the home has remained as the family lived. Their belongings from Europe, artworks by family members and numerous Art Deco pieces remind guests that this is more a home than a museum. Memorabilia such as the dining table is left exactly as they had it set for their last meal.
Kathy’s review cont.
Throughout his career, Karl Duldig had several major public works commissioned. Most significantly is the powerful sculpture of the missing Swedish diplomat and humanitarian, Raoul Wallenberg, at Kew Junction. Wallenberg helped thousands of Jews escape Nazi occupied Budapest in World War II. His whereabouts and probable death have never been confirmed by Russia, which was the occupying force in Budapest at the time of the liberation of Europe.
As a young child, Professor Frank Valjad, since a Melburnian, was one of the refugees Wallenberg helped escape. Latterly, a friend of Duldig, he pioneered the construction of the current memorial to Wallenberg in Kew. Prime Minister Julia Gillard subsequently awarded Wallenberg the first honorary Australian citizenship for his humanitarianism.
Located at 92 Burke Road Malvern and close to Central Park, it is just a convenient short walk from the termination of Number 5 tram along Wattletree Road.
Bookings are essential.
I have long been curious about the sculpture at Kew Junction so this visit to the Duldig gallery and museum was significant for me as these stories are now also part of our Australian history.
Planning your visit
Open Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1 pm – 4 pm, and on the second Sunday of each month (1 pm – 4 pm).
Entry is $15 for adults; children under 16 free when accompanied by an adult.
Group tours (6 or more) can be booked by appointment for other times.
Getting there
Duldig Studio is at 92 Burke Road, Malvern East, VIC 3145.
Tram No. 5 to the East Malvern terminus, then a 10-minute walk along Burke Road.
Residential parking is available nearby.
Tips for the best experience
- If you’ve booked a tour, arrive early — tours often begin at set times.
- Check the website for workshops, special exhibitions or school-holiday programs.
- Plan to spend around 1 to 1.5 hours there — long enough for the guided tour, a wander through the rooms and garden, and a quiet moment for reflection.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the garden.
- Accessibility: House museum with some steps; contact ahead for assistance.
- Bookings: Recommended, essential for special events or group tours.
- Pair it with a café stop nearby — Central Park and Malvern Village are close for coffee or lunch.
Final thoughts
The Duldig Studio Museum + Sculpture Garden is one of those places where art, history and humanity converge. It’s not just about viewing sculptures — it’s about stepping into the lives of two extraordinary people whose creativity was forged through resilience and reinvention.
As Kathy so beautifully described, this lovingly preserved home and garden is a personal story etched into Melbourne’s landscape, connecting the past with the present in the most human way.
Duldig Studio Museum & Sculpture Garden
Address: 92 Burke Road, Malvern East VIC 3145
Email: enquiries@duldig.org.au
Phone: 03 9885 3358
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