If you only have time to see one Sydney gallery, this is your go-to, specialising in Australian art through the ages.
Sydney's premier art destination, the Art Gallery of New South Wales—aka Art Gallery NSW—was established in 1871 and holds court in the leafy Domain near Hyde Park. Its huge classical building is home to a vast collection of fine Australian and international art, including colonial and 19th-century Australian works and European old masters, as well as contemporary creations. It's free to visit the permanent collection of this public gallery, but specific shows are ticketed.
Spacious, light-filled galleries flaunt views over Sydney Harbour and surrounding parkland. You'll enter by the ticketing and information desk; turn right for the ornate Grand Courts, the historic European and Australian galleries (mainly covering the 15th to 19th centuries, plus some 20th-century European art) or left to see 20th and 21st-century contemporary works by Australian talents. You'll discover more modern art downstairs, plus compelling pieces by Aboriginal artists, and Asian art spread over two floors. The expansive collection covers all media, drawing over a million visitors a year to this major Australian gallery.
Highlights include contemporary Australian paintings by Fred Williams, Brett Whiteley, Grace Cossington Smith, Margaret Preston, John Brack, Sidney Nolan, and John Olsen, including depictions of Sydney Harbour Bridge, beach life, local landscapes, and the city. Don't miss 19th-century Australians Eugene von Guérard, Tom Roberts, and Arthur Streeton. While the permanent collection is a must-see, the changing exhibitions bag the headlines. The annual Archibald Prize, featuring portraits by Australian artists, is always a best-seller. Recent big-name international exhibitions have celebrated Dutch master Rembrandt, as well as American painter Georgia O'Keeffe, and photographer Robert Mapplethorpe. The gallery is part of major city-wide show the Biennale of Sydney (held in even-numbered years).
Did you meet anyone on staff? Did they make an impression?
You'll find helpful staff at the front desk and dotted through the galleries. Guided tours are available.
If you only have time to see one Sydney gallery, this is your go-to, specialising in Australian art through the ages. Tick off the classical, contemporary, and Aboriginal Australian galleries. You'll also enjoy the gorgeous setting, view-blessed branch of seasonal, Australian restaurant Chiswick, indoor-outdoor café, and great gift shop. Art fans can check out offshoot the Brett Whiteley Studio in Surry Hills, the intimate former studio of the brilliant late Australian artist.