The Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA) is the state’s premier art museum, housing a collection of over 15,000 works of art. Located in the Perth CBD, the gallery is situated within walking distance of many other attractions such as the Perth Mint and the Western Australian Museum. The gallery offers a variety of exhibitions and public programs throughout the year, making it a great place to visit for locals and tourists alike.

History

Art Gallery of Western Australia houses a significant collection of Aboriginal art and artifacts. The gallery is also home to the State Library of Western Australia, making it an ideal destination for those who love to learn.

The Art Gallery of Western Australia was established in 1895, making it one of the oldest art museums in Australia. The gallery had undergone several renovations and expansions over the years, most notably in 1979, when the new building was opened to house the gallery’s growing collection.

The architect of the museum’s main gallery building was Charles Sierakowski, a member of the Public Works Department and collaborator with engineer Philip Nadebaum and the architectural firm Summerhayes & Associates. It was built in the Bauhaus style with a Brutalist exterior that was fashionable in European architecture at the time. The slab and shear head column system was an innovative structural feature in Western Australia when it was constructed.

In 2017, ‘Six Seasons’—a high-profile project dedicated to increasing AGWA’s Indigenous collection focus—was launched, as well as a new permanent Indigenous gallery alongside “Plain Speak,” an exhibition showcasing the art of contemporary Australia. AGWA has announced plans to convert its large rooftop into a focus for sculpture, events, restaurants, film and more in AGWA Elevate,’ a project scheduled to open before the Gallery’s third anniversary in 2020. The Western Australian government has committed $10 million to this initiative.

Today, the Art Gallery of Western Australia is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art and culture.

Exhibitions and Public Programs

Art Gallery of Western Australia offers a variety of exhibitions and public programs throughout the year. These include ‘Six Seasons,’ a high-profile project dedicated to increasing AGWA’s Indigenous collection focus, and a new permanent Indigenous gallery alongside “Plain Speak,” an exhibition showcasing the art of contemporary Australia.

Getting There

The Art Gallery of Western Australia is located in the Perth CBD, within walking distance of many other attractions you can visit on the same day.

For more information on how to get to the Art Gallery of Western Australia, please visit their website.

Opening Hours

The Art Gallery of Western Australia is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm and is closed on Tuesdays, Good Friday, and Christmas.

Admissions

Admission to the gallery is free for all visitors, but donations are welcome.

Final Verdict

The Art Gallery of Western Australia is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art and culture. With a variety of exhibitions and public programs on offer, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So why not come and explore the Art Gallery of Western Australia today? You won’t be disappointed!

Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre
The Master Plasterers