Palette Perfect: The Best Art Galleries in Sydney

Sydneysiders are spoilt for choice when it comes to art. The city is dotted with smaller art galleries tucked away in the greenery of the inner-city suburbs. You’ll find exhibitions by both lesser-known and emerging local and international artists in these cosy spaces. Spend the day gallery-hopping around Paddington, Surry Hills, Darlinghurst, and Chippendale before winding down at one of the city's vibrant bars. Ready to get started? Read on for the best art galleries in Sydney...

Roslyn Oxley9 Gallery

For a small space, RoslynOxley9 in Paddington has made quite a name for itself, becoming one of the better-known small galleries in Sydney. The gallery has exhibited works by artists like Tracey Moffatt, Bill Henson, and Yolgnu artist Dhambit Munungurr. 

General admission is free

9 Soudan Lane, Paddington

White Rabbit Gallery

Lovers of contemporary Chinese art need look no further than the White Rabbit Gallery in Chippendale. Judith Nielson owns the expansive collection on show at White Rabbit, one of the world's most significant collections. This gallery is well worth a visit for anyone interested in Chinese art. 

General admission is free

30 Balfour Street, Chippendale 

Campbelltown Arts Centre 

Further afield in Western Sydney lies Campbelltown Arts Centre. The Campbelltown City Council Art Collection comprises over 1500 artworks by more than 650 Australian artists. It is focused on major artworks by leading contemporary artists from, living in or closely connected to Western Sydney and from around Australia.

General admission is free

1 Art Gallery Road, Campbelltown

NAS Gallery 

The National Art School’s gallery space offers emerging artists a place to showcase their work. From paintings and drawings to ceramics and sculpture, you’ll find the best of tomorrow’s artists in this historic gallery on the former Darlinghurst Gaol site. 

General admission is free

Corner of Forbes and Burton Streets, Darlinghurst

Blacktown Arts

The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre is a true hub of creativity and a must-visit for art aficionados. Blacktown Arts specialises in First Nations art and storytelling and is home to Elders in Residence, a dedicated space for connecting with First Nations elders.  

General admission is free

78 Flushcombe Road, Blacktown

Cement Fondu

At Cement Fondu you’ll find photography, music, dance, installation and performance art exhibitions. The space has housed First Nations exhibitions, queer artistic storytelling, and is home to art that explores nature, society, and history. 

36 Gosbell Street, Paddington 

Museum of Contemporary Art 

Known to Sydneysiders as the MCA, this art gallery has featured works by internationally renowned artists like Jeff Koons and Yoko Ono. Not only does the gallery feature breathtaking artworks, but it’s also home to a rooftop cafe with some of the best views in Sydney. 

General admission is free

140 George Street, The Rocks

STATION 

A relative newcomer to the Sydney arts scene, STATION in Surry Hills hosts exhibitions by contemporary artists from around Australia and participates in regular art fairs in Sydney and around the country. 

91 Campbell Street, Surry Hills  

Gallery 9

This Darlinghurst gem features photography, sculpture, video, installation, and ceramics exhibitions by Australian, New Zealand, and American artists. Gallery 9 prides itself on exhibiting non-represented artists alongside established artists. 

9 Darley Street, Darlinghurst 

If you've flown through this edit of the best are galleries in Sydney and are looking for more ways to spend your time in town, be sure to take a peek at our what's on this month guide as well as this edit of free things to do in Sydney.