Sydney Art Galleries

Sydney has a fantastic collection of art galleries, from major establishments to small independently run initiatives, offering you the opportunity to discover up and coming artists, admire old classics and immerse yourself in exciting contemporary exhibitions. You’ll also find an exciting calendar of arts festivals and events throughout the year.

What’s on

• Lindy Lee: Moon in a Dew Drop at the Museum of Contemporary Arts
• Under the Stars at the Art Gallery of NSW
• Diamonds in the Rough at Boomalli Aboriginal Arts Cooperative
• Tracey Clement’s 'Soon it would be too hot' at Casula Powerhouse

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. Australia’s most extraordinary art event takes place at the gallery each year - the Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes. This bring together the best portrait, landscape and subject or genre artists for one of the most highly anticipated exhibitions of the year. The Archibald Prize 2021 exhibition will take place between the 5 June – 26 September 2021.

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. 

In Chippendale, White Rabbit Gallery displays modern Chinese art, a short stroll from the bustling streets of Chinatown, and in Redfern Carriageworks is the largest and most significant contemporary multi-arts centre of its kind in Australia. 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. 

Events and Festivals

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.