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 & coming soon

• 23rd Biennale of Sydney at Museum of Contemporary Art, now showing
• The Way We Eat at Art Gallery of NSW, now until 14 June 2022
• Primavera 2021 at Museum of Contemporary Art, now until 12 June 2022
• Big In China at White Rabbit, from December 2021 to August 2022
• Robert Rosen: Glitterati at Powerhouse Museum, now until 28 August 2022
• Eucalyptusdom at Powerhouse Museum, now until 28 August 2022
• Bonita Ely at Museum of Contemporary Art, now until 6 November 2022
• Brett Whiteley: Blue and White at Brett Whiteley Studio, now until 27 November 2022
• Liveworks Festival of Experimental Art 2021 at Carriageworks, online
• The Aquilizan Studio: Making it Home at Art Gallery of NSW, now until 2023
• Daniel Boyd: Treasure Island at Art Gallery of NSW, 4 June 2022-January 2023
• Local Rhythms and Actions at Art Gallery of NSW, 4 June 2022-January 2023
• MCA Collection: Perspectives on Place at Museum of Contemporary Art, now until 24 July 2023

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 brings together the best portrait, landscape and subject or genre artists for one of the most highly anticipated exhibitions of the year. 

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. 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.