Art Gallery of New South Wales
Located in the Domain, the Art Gallery of New South Wales opened in 1885 with two picture galleries. Over time additional wings and a foyer expanded the building to its current size.
Entry is free to the general collection, although entry to any special events or exhibitions is not.
How to Get to The Art Gallery of New South Wales
If driving, the Domain car park is within easy walking distance and is secure and undercover. The closest train station is Martin Place, only a ten-minute walk from the Gallery. The closest bus stop is Sheraton on the Park, Elizabeth St, followed by a 15 minute walk. Both walks go through the Domain parkland which has landscaped gardens, with shady trees and seats to relax on.
The Art Gallery of New South Wales Collection
15th to 19th Century European Gallery
Filled with classical European paintings and sculptures, this gallery contains beautiful artworks from the 15th to 19th centuries. There is a large silver sculpture (The English Channel by Michael Parekowhai 2015), from the 21st century that clashes with the other works, because of its chrome finish.
Australian Gallery
One of the reasons for the Galley’s foundation, was to encourage interest in the arts in Australia. To this end it has expanded from simply showing European art, to exhibiting Australian artists.
Represented here are famous Australian artists, such as Sidney Nolan and Russell Drysdale in addition to many others.
Lowy, Gonski Gallery
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Gallery
Showcased in its own gallery, the unique style of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders is a great contrast to classical art in the other galleries. Often colourful and always reflecting the artists culture, this was a great gallery to wander around.
Contemporary Galleries
The contemporary galleries display art that reflects current culture, covering the 1960s to present in all media types.
Asian Gallery
Following the Sydney International Exhibition in 1879, the Government of Japan gifted a large group of ceramics and bronzes to the Gallery. This initial collection has now expanded to cover two floors, making the gallery a leading centre for Asian art. Today, the wide-ranging Asian collection embraces many countries and cultures of Asia.
Entrance Court and Special Exhibits
Often displaying large murals that reflect the current special exhibits, the Entrance Court is large, bright and open. It leads to most of the other galleries. Pick up a map at the reception desk, to ensure you can find your way around. The internal floor plan of the gallery is complex and it’s easy to miss exhibits.
The Gallery Shop contains an extensive array of books and gifts relating to the gallery. If you need a reference book, or want to learn more about an artist, this could be the pace to find it.
Art Outside the Gallery
Adorning the walls of the Gallery’s entrance a series of bronze sculptures, representing classical European art. Throughout the Domain, sculptures of Burns, Robertson (a politician) and contemporary themes add to the fun of walking around.
Sir John Robertson Statue 
Opposite the Art Gallery 
Front of the Art Gallery 
The Matchsticks 
Burns Statue
Where to Eat
If you get hungry before, during or after you visit, the gallery has a cafe where you can refuel before admiring the art works on display.
If you would rather eat outside, a restaurant and associated bar across the road offer meals snacks and drinks.
To see what else there is to do in New South Wales, please see some of our other stories.
Our photos are available for purchase on