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Palette Perfect: The Best Art Galleries in Sydney
Craving a dose of culture? A visit to one of Sydney's best art galleries will do the trick.
Sydneysiders are a creative bunch, so we’re spoilt for choice in this city when it comes to art. The city is dotted with smaller art galleries tucked away in the greenery of the inner-city suburbs. It’s here you’ll find exhibitions by both lesser-known and emerging local and international artists. As for blockbuster exhibits? We’ve got those too, with the world-class MCA and Art Gallery of NSW. With so many within walking distance, we recommend making a day of it. Ready to plan your art-hop? 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. A roster of dynamic touring exhibits means one visit is mot enough.
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
Art Gallery of New South Wales
New South Wales’ premier art museum, the Art Gallery of NSW, is home to a permanent collection of Australian and International art, as well as an exciting roster of touring exhibits and temporary displays.
Sitchu Tip: The art gallery is open until 10pm each Wednesday and makes for a great midweek culture fix.
General admission is free
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
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.
Tickets from $25
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.
General admission is free
91 Campbell Street, Surry Hills
Artspace
This multi-platform contemporary art space is an independent and not-for-profit organisation that plays host to studio residencies, performances and exhibitions. In addition to exhibits with Artspace itself, they facilitate a rotating commission for a banner on the Gunnery building and host a host of creative events, like the Another Art Book Fair. On a constant journey to challenge the idea of what a gallery can be, keep up with Artspace happenings here.
General admission is free
43-51 Cowper Wharf Roadway, Woolloomooloo
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.
