Art Gallery of New South Wales : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Vibrant and excited, the Art Gallery of New South Wales (AGNSW) offers world-class art and culture that sets the pulse of arts and wonderment. An iconic Sydney institution that features a broad range of national and international works from renowned Australian and International artists, the AGNSW is home to some of the country’s finest exclusive works and frames the legacy of art in our nation’s past. From dazzling architecture to a vast range of exhibitions, this travel guide gives an in-depth look into the Art Gallery of New South Wales – discover interesting facts, captivating displays, and uncover the history of this esteemed art venue.

Interesting Facts About Art Gallery of New South Wales

1. The Art Gallery of New South Wales has a reputation for being a pioneering and innovative institution in terms of contemporary art, showcasing work from numerous artists, both local and international.

2. The Gallery opened in 1874 in the Victoria Barracks Military Precinct and was established by the New South Wales Government to house its vast collections of fine art.

3. It is home to the largest permanent collection of art in Australia, with more than 34,000 works in its holdings.

4. The gallery has a vast Australian art collection, which includes works by Sidney Nolan, Arthur Streeton, Fred Williams, Arthur Boyd, Margaret Preston, and many more.

5. The gallery also has a major collection of works by European artists, such as Rembrandt, Monet, Renoir, Pissarro, Cezanne, Matisse, and more.

6. The gallery holds frequent exhibitions, lectures and other events, making it an important cultural hub in Sydney.

7. In 2015, the Gallery held one of its most ambitious exhibitions ever – the Monet and Modernism exhibition, with over 500 works of French Impressionist art and other related artworks.

8. The Gallery’s restaurant, the Yiribana Gallery Café, is run by a Trust dedicated to the promotion of Aboriginal art and culture.

9. The gallery is also the host of the prestigious Archibald Prize for portraiture, with the winning works going on permanent display at the gallery after their winning year.

10. In 2020, the Gallery announced the development of a major contemporary indigenous art commission for its SPACE gallery – to be titled “Future Blak” and feature works by up-and-coming Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.

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History & Information About Art Gallery of New South Wales

The Art Gallery of New South Wales in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, is a body of arts and culture dedicated to art from Australia, Europe, and Asia. The gallery’s collection includes original works from well-known Australian and international artists. The collection also includes over 30,000 photographs, books, drawings, ceramics, textiles, and archival materials.

The Art Gallery of New South Wales was founded in 1871 by the New South Wales Government. The building that houses the permanent collection today was originally designed by Edwin Lutyens and was opened in 1874. Today, the Gallery is a popular destination among visitors to Sydney, showcasing a range of exhibitions and programs each year.

The gallery is particularly well known for its Australian art exhibitions. This includes the Biennale of Sydney, held every two years and described as “a celebration of contemporary art from Australia and around the world” and the Archibald Prize for Portraiture, the country’s oldest and most prestigious art prize. The gallery also curates a range of exhibitions that focus on particular themes or media, such as painting, photography, or indigenous art.

The education program at the Art Gallery of New South Wales works to excite and engage audiences to explore and appreciate art. The Gallery organises various art workshops and activities for school and groups, artist talks, guided tours, and special holiday programs. The educational outreach also includes online resources, interactive games, podcasts and a virtual classroom.

The Art Gallery of New South Wales is also home to an array of public spaces, such as the Sculpture Garden, the café, and a bookshop. Visitors can also find a range of publications and resources at the Gallery, including guides to the current exhibitions.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Art Gallery of New South Wales

1. Plan Your Trip:

The Art Gallery of New South Wales is the leading visual arts institution in Sydney and is one of the most visited art galleries in Australia. It has an impressive permanent collection as well as regular special exhibitions showcasing a range of works from leading Australian, International, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. Before your visit, take a look at the exhibitions, events and workshops that are currently on to ensure you don’t miss the chance to experience the best of what the gallery has to offer.

2. Add To Your Itinerary:

The gallery opens regularly every day from 10am to 5pm. Admission is free, but certain special exhibitions or events may require an admission fee. If you’re visiting with a group, you might be interested in registering for a guided tour. These are offered every day and include an overview of the collection and have special tours for families, teens and adults. The gallery has an excellent range of public programs offering talks, seminars and workshops throughout the year. Check the What’s On page on the gallery’s website before you visit to find out about the various events taking place during your trip.

3. Explore The Galleries:

The Art Gallery stands opposite the Royal Botanic Gardens in the heart of Sydney, and its impressive façade of Corinthian columns welcomes visitors. Inside the elegant Beaux-Arts building are seven gallery spaces, including two dedicated to Australian art, one to Asian art, and the others to prints, drawings and watercolors, European and American art, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. There are also lovely gardens and courtyards, and the gallery hosts lively music, theatre and dance events.

4. About The Collection:

The permanent collection of The Art Gallery of New South Wales showcases around 20,000 artworks, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, and prints from Australian, European, Asian and contemporary artists. The collection includes almost 700 works by Australian artists, with exquisite landscape paintings by Banjo Paterson, Frederick McCubbin, and Arthur Streeton. It also includes works from across Asia and the Pacific, such as Aboriginal bark paintings, Koori shields, and traditional Indonesian sculptures.

5. Shop And Eat:

Visitors who are looking to purchase artwork or related souvenirs can visit the gallery’s gift shop, which stocks a range of prints, postcards and books, as well as art supplies and other objects. The gallery’s café serves breakfast and lunch options as well as teas, coffees, and pastries.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Art Gallery of New South Wales

Q. Where is Art Gallery of New South Wales located?
A. Art Gallery of New South Wales is located in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.

Q. What are the hours of Art Gallery of New South Wales?
A. Art Gallery of New South Wales is open from 10am to 5pm every day.

Q. Is Art Gallery of New South Wales free of charge?
A. Entry to the permanent collection is free of charge. Ticket prices apply for special exhibitions and events.

Q. Is there parking available at Art Gallery of New South Wales?
A. Limited all-day parking is available at the Domain Car Park adjacent to the Gallery. There is also a drop up zone near the main entrance.

Q. Are guided tours available at Art Gallery of New South Wales?
A. Yes, guided tours of the permanent collection and special exhibitions are available. Please contact the Gallery for more information.

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