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Culture Fix: The Best Art Exhibitions in Sydney in 2026
Craving some culture? These are the best art exhibitions in Sydney.
It should come as no surprise that we love living in Sydney. From stunning natural beauty, killer cafe culture and, slowly but surely, a reemerging nightlife. Beyond the bars and beaches though, there is a thriving arts and cultural scene, and our art galleries and museums are among the best in the world.
Whether you’re looking for a fun rainy-day activity or want to support local emerging artists, these are the best art exhibitions in Sydney to check out in 2026.
Make a Date With the Archibald Prize Before August
If you only make it to one exhibition this year, make it the Archibald. Australia’s most anticipated annual art event is back at the Art Gallery of NSW until 16 August, and it never gets old. This year’s show brings together the full trio — the Archibald Prize for portraiture, the Wynne Prize for landscape painting and figurative sculpture, and the Sulman Prize for subject and genre painting.
One ticket covers all three, and the sheer range of what Australian and New Zealand artists are doing with portraiture right now is worth the trip alone. Don’t skip Young Archie on the ground floor either, it’s a free display of work by artists aged 5 to 18 is one of the most joyful rooms in the building. While you’re there, vote for your favourite portrait in the ANZ People’s Choice award for a chance to win $2,000.
Sitchu Tip: Midweek visitors get 2-for-1 tickets on Wednesday nights from 5pm to 10pm. From $30 for adults.
Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
Daily 10am – 5pm, Wednesdays 10am – 10pm. Until 16 August 2026
Banksy Limitless
Fresh from a sold-out London season that drew over 120,000 visitors, Banksy Limitless is now open at The Rocks for a strictly limited run. More than 250 works , including certified originals, rare pieces and large-scale installations, fill the historic space at 155 George Street, pulling Banksy’s unmistakable street-level wit into an entirely new kind of experience. Uncover the stories behind iconic works like Cinderella at Dismaland and London Zoo, step into immersive rooms built around his razor-sharp social commentary and come face to face with a show-stopping hologram installation making its global debut here. In true Banksy fashion, a portion of proceeds supports the M.V. Louise Michel; the independent rescue vessel operating in the Mediterranean, originally purchased with funds from a Banksy artwork. Go with someone who likes to argue about things. You’ll have a lot to talk about on the way home.
Prices: From $42 for adults and $30 for children
Purchase tickets here
Until July 1st 2026
155 George Street, The Rocks, Sydney
Art Galley Of NSW, Mike Hewson: The Key’s Under the Mat
One of those unexpected gallery experiences, this playful, communal installation blurs art and environment, inviting you to explore a transformed space with everyday materials reimagined.
Until August 23rd
Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
White Rabbit Gallery, The Hooligans
This tough and intellectually stirring group show brings together contemporary Chinese artists whose work responds to ideas of dissent, rule-breaking and social control. The exhibition takes its name from the once-broadly applied hooliganism charge (used historically to silence political and social nonconformists) and layers painting, sculpture and video to explore resistance, identity and cultural tension in an expressive way. It’s a powerful cultural experience that sparks conversation, if that’s what you’re looking for.
Until May 17th
30 Balfour St, Chippendale NSW 2008
Art Gallery Of NSW, Kate Mitchell: In the Eye of the Giant
This is a meditative digital scroll installation that visualises emotional states through ornate drawing work by Sydney-based artist Kate Mitchell. It’s ideal for a reflective gallery wander or a little cultural date.
Until June
Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
Art Gallery Of NSW, And Still I Rise
Spanning generations, mediums and perspectives, And Still I Rise is a powerful survey of artists responding to themes of resilience, identity, self-determination and empowerment. The exhibition brings together painting, sculpture, photography and installation to explore how artists navigate personal and collective strength in the face of adversity.
Until January 19th 2027
Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000
Sydney Biennale 2026 – Rememory
As one of the Southern Hemisphere’s most anticipated art events, Rememory brings together sprawling installations, performances and major commissions across venues like White Bay Power Station and AGNSW. It’s a perfect date-day itinerary with plenty of food stops and walkable cultural hubs.
Until June 14th
Various Sydney venues
Wentworth Galleries
The bright and bold world of Australian contemporary and Aboriginal art at Wentworth Galleries is open to the public across two CBD locations. Showcasing art inspired by national and global events, the gallery offers year-round access to stunning works, with additional exhibitions popping up throughout the year.
Permanent displays feature expressive pieces perfect for art enthusiasts seeking a pop of colour. Commercially available, these artworks beckon those ready to invest in Australia’s contemporary art scene.
Find luminous still lifes by Jacqueline Fowler and breathtaking landscapes by Ken Knight or Ted Lewis. This art spans various mediums and is the place for those ready to up their art game.
175 Pitt Street, Sydney
61 Phillip Street, Sydney
Are you inspired by our edit of the best art exhibitions in Sydney and keen to try your hand at a creative hobby? Check out our list of the best creative classes, to help you upskill, or head to the best markets in Sydney to pick up some supplies.
