Art Gallery of New South Wales

Fantastic art gallery! There is so much to see for art lovers. The permanent exhibits are mainly in the main building. The newly built section is a couple of minutes walk away and houses a unique light and sound installation in basement of building (check out the video).
Zeph - a week ago

Visiting from Vancouver, Canada, as an architect, the Art Gallery of New South Wales was a must-see for me — and it absolutely exceeded expectations. The building is a beautiful blend of heritage and modern architecture, and the collections are thoughtfully curated, showcasing everything from Australian and European masterpieces to contemporary and Indigenous works. I was especially captivated by my experience on the -4 floor, where I discovered Angelica Mesiti’s The Rites of Passage. The installation is located in The Tank, a massive underground space originally built as a World War II oil bunker. The raw concrete columns, once used to support the bunker’s heavy structure, now create an extraordinary, almost cathedral-like setting for the artwork. Their monumental, industrial presence adds an incredible sense of gravity and history to the experience — a feeling of being surrounded by layers of time and memory. Mesiti’s immersive video and sound piece fills the cavernous space with emotion, reflecting on human rituals, nature, and transformation. It’s the kind of artwork that makes you stop, reflect, and truly feel connected to both the space and the stories being told. What makes the Art Gallery of New South Wales even more special is the harmonious blend of the old and new. The original installations, housed in the gallery’s heritage areas, carry a sense of classical beauty, while the new, modern exhibits in the Sydney Modern expansion push boundaries and invite a more experimental, contemporary experience. Both the old and new installations are unique in their own way, offering a diverse range of art that speaks to different times and emotions. Entry to the main exhibitions is free, making it an even more welcoming experience for all visitors. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a creative professional, or simply curious, this gallery offers a truly inspiring and unforgettable experience. Highly recommend it to anyone visiting Sydney!
Julio Yanes - 2 months ago

There are two separate buildings and the new building is a beautiful modern space with several terraces and interesting outdoor art installations. The old building has a more conventional gallery feel and a wonderfully thought provoking collection of art. Both are worth a visit and you could spend anywhere from an hour to a half day here easily. Also saw quite a few wedding parties outside, it must be a place to come to take wedding photos.
Daryna B - a month ago

A must-visit in Sydney! The Art Gallery of NSW offers a stunning collection ranging from classical to contemporary works. Beautifully curated exhibits, peaceful atmosphere, and free entry make it even better. The new North building is a modern gem with great views. Perfect for art lovers or anyone seeking inspiration. Don’t miss the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art section!
Kia Kalantari - 3 months ago

The Art Gallery of NSW is a beautiful and inspiring space, with a fantastic mix of classic and contemporary works. The layout is vast across three floors to navigate, and the exhibitions are categorised quite well. It’s a great way to spend a few hours in the heart of Sydney — peaceful, creative, and completely free!
Sunil George - a week ago