Culture Fix: The Best Art Exhibitions in Sydney in 2026

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. 

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

Art Gallery of NSW, Dangerously Modern: Australian Women Artists in Europe 1890–1940

This is a historically rich and wonderfully feminist exhibition celebrating 50+ trailblazing Australian women artists who chased freedom and careers in Europe at the turn of the 20th century. It’s intellectually satisfying with beautiful works, making it perfect for an arts-savvy date or a cultured outing with friends.

Until February 15th
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 New South Wales, Ron Mueck: Encounter

This is not only a major solo show, but it’s also the largest exhibition of Ron Mueck’s hyper-realist sculptures ever in Australia. From monumental figures to intimate human moments, this sprawling exhibit invites you to confront scale, emotion and the uncanny up close.

Until April 12th
Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000

Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, Data Dreams: Art and AI

A pioneering exhibition at MCA exploring how artificial intelligence shapes creativity, identity and perception, featuring immersive works by international artists. It’s the kind of show that will make you think about art and technology in a totally new way.

Until April 27th
140 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000

Art Gallery of New South Wales, ARTEXPRESS 2026

As a Sydney art institution favourite, this annual showcase may not need introduction to most. Featuring standout HSC Visual Arts works across ceramics, photography, sculpture and more, this offers a snapshot of rising creative talent across NSW. Very inspiring!

Until April 26th
Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000

Museum of Sydney, Unearthed – Archaeology Meets Storytelling

A surprisingly immersive look at Sydney’s earliest colonial site through archaeological finds, from printing press remnants to wine bottles. Unexpectedly, these everyday objects actually tell big stories about people, power and place. This is great for culture lovers wanting something a little bit different but still highly engaging.

Until March 8th
Museum of Sydney, 285 George St, Sydney NSW 2000

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

Australian Museum, Unfinished Business

This is one to add to your list. A powerful 3D photography and multimedia exhibition amplifying voices and lived experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living with disabilities. It’s thoughtful, moving and deeply human.

Until April 19th
Cnr William & College St, Sydney NSW 2000

Artspace, Christopher Kulendran Thomas: Safe Zone

This one feels pretty timely. Bringing together AI-generated imagery, painting and moving images, this exhibition interrogates how history, politics and identity are shaped and ultimately reshaped by media. Drawing on everything from advertising to geopolitical conflict, Kulendran Thomas creates immersive environments that feel both familiar and unsettling, prompting visitors to question what they’re seeing and who controls the narrative.

Until February 15th
43–51 Cowper Wharf Rd, Woolloomooloo NSW 2011

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.

March 14th – 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.