Sydney Art Galleries

It’s time to get back into the arts! From June 1, art galleries, museums and libraries across Sydney and NSW are allowed to open. Be aware that new entry conditions may be in place, so check the websites before you visit.

Sydney has a fantastic collection of art galleries, festivals and events, offering you the opportunity to discover up and coming artists, admire old classics and immerse yourself in exciting contemporary exhibitions.

Sydney Art Galleries

With a prime location overlooking Sydney Opera House, The Museum of Contemporary Art is an innovative space, celebrating the work of living artists. The gallery hosts exceptional exhibitions from both international and Australian artists, as well as education programs and online exhibitions.

The Art Gallery of NSW is Sydney's most important public gallery and showcases significant works by Australian and international artists.  It has one of the world's largest permanent exhibitions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. You can enjoy many of the exhibitions in their online gallery.

Australia’s most extraordinary art event takes place at the gallery each year - the Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes. This brings together the best portrait, landscape and subject or genre artists for one of the most highly anticipated exhibitions of the year. Dates for 2020 are to be confirmed.

The Artery Contemporary Aboriginal Art Gallery in Darlinghurst specialises in art from remote Aboriginal communities. The gallery works with both emerging and established artists and art centres and offers ethical and affordable Aboriginal artworks. Though the gallery is currently closed, you can still purchase works online.

In Chippendale, White Rabbit Gallery displays modern Chinese art, a short stroll from the bustling streets of Chinatown. If you missed out on THEN, the fantastic exhibition that was shown earlier this year, of the first ten years at White Rabbit Gallery, this is a great opportunity to catch up. The 360 virtual tour lets you walk around each room in the exhibition.

On the banks of the Georges River you will find Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre, a cultural facility offering a wide range of exhibitions, events and educational programs. The centre is currently working on an engaging and interactive online programme.

Events and Festivals

This year, NIRIN, the 22nd Biennale of Sydney will transform into a digital experience. From April 6, daily online events linked to the seven themes of the exhibition can be found on the website and social channels. Every Tuesday, teachers, students and families will be able to access a range of learning material from NIRIN such as podcasts, interviews and tutorials.

The National Indigenous Art Fair takes place during NAIDOC Week in July, at the Overseas Passenger Terminal in Circular Quay.  Featuring artworks by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists from around Australia, as well as a program of live music and Aboriginal dance performances.

Carriageworks in Redfern is the largest and most significant contemporary multi-arts centre of its kind in Australia. Explore the Carriageworks Journal, an online hub for original content, with a weekly changing programme of interviews, performances, essays, films, photography and more.