Established in 1874, the Art Gallery of NSW is proud to present fine international and Australian art in one of the most beautiful art museums in the world. We aim to be a place of experience and inspiration, through our collection, exhibitions, programs and research. Admission to the Gallery is free, as are our permanent galleries and most exhibitions and events.
Collection
Modern and contemporary works are displayed in expansive, light-filled spaces, offering stunning views of Sydney and the harbour, while our splendid Grand Courts are home to a distinguished collection of colonial and 19th-century Australian works and European old masters. There are also dedicated galleries celebrating the arts of Asia and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.
Exhibitions
Alongside our permanent collection are regularly changing temporary exhibitions – more than 30 each year – including flagship annual exhibitions such as the Archibald Prize and ARTEXPRESS.
Programs and facilities
One of the most popular art museums in Australia, visited by over 1.3 million people annually, the Gallery is far more than just a destination for looking at pictures. It’s also a place to enjoy lectures and symposia, films, music and performances, meet friends for a meal or coffee in the cafe or restaurant, or browse in the Gallery Shop. Our range ofaccess programs is aimed at engaging diverse audiences with different needs. And more than 100 000 students visit each year to take part in our engaging and stimulatingeducation programs.
Membership
Today, the Gallery boasts the largest arts membership base in the country, with around 30 000 people in the Art Gallery Society of NSW enjoying a range of benefits, including special members events. Our work is also supported by various loyal and energetic benefactor groups through the Gallery’s Foundation.
Expertise
Integral to the Gallery’s collection and activities is the knowledge and scholarship that bring meaning and relevance to the artworks themselves. A core element in our exhibitions and programs, it is also evident in our publishing program, which is unmatched by any other such institution in Australia.
Brett Whiteley Studio
Brett Whiteley’s workplace and home in the inner-city suburb of Surry Hills is now a gallery and studio museum managed by the Art Gallery of NSW. Offering an intimate insight into the art and life of one of Australia’s most celebrated artists, it’s open free to the public on weekends and can be visited on Thursdays and Fridays by education groups.
Website
While nothing can replicate the experience of visiting the Gallery in person, our website is one of an increasing number of ways to access us. The site provides information about exhibitions and events at the Gallery. While only about 5% of the collection can be displayed at any one time, you can search the entire collection online. You can download catalogues and other education material, take an online tour or do your ownresearch.
A selection of rich educational content for lifelong learners, students and people interested in knowing more about the Gallery is available through the Beyond Campussection of iTunes U, and you can watch Gallery videos on the Gallery Channel or onYouTube.
