Art Gallery of New South Wales
New South Wales
The Art Gallery of New South Wales, established in 1872 as the New South Wales Academy of Art, is Sydney's most important public art institution and one of Australia's largest galleries. Located in The Domain, it houses a diverse collection featuring Australian art, including Indigenous Australian works, alongside European and Asian art. The gallery's first public exhibition was held in 1874, and since then it has expanded its facilities and collections significantly. Notably, a dedicated Asian Gallery was opened in 2003, reflecting the gallery's commitment to diverse cultural representations. The building itself has evolved over time, with significant architectural contributions from government architects in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Admission to the general exhibition space is free, encouraging public engagement with art and culture. The gallery also hosts notable art prizes such as the Archibald and Sulman Prizes, underscoring its role in promoting contemporary Australian art. It stands not only as a cultural landmark but also as an educational institution dedicated to the fine arts.
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Astuce: Visit during weekdays or early weekends to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience. Admission to the general exhibition space is free, but special exhibitions may require tickets, which can be purchased online in advance. Check the official website for current exhibitions, events, and extended opening hours. The gallery offers tours and educational programs, and signing up for their newsletter can provide early access to tickets and events. Accessibility services are available for visitors with special needs.
Faits intéressants
- •The first Australian artwork acquired by the gallery was 'Apsley Falls' by Conrad Martens in 1875.
- •The gallery hosted over 300,000 visitors in just two months in 1906 for Holman Hunt's 'The Light of the World'.
- •The Archibald Prize, Australia's most famous portrait award, was first awarded at the gallery in 1921.
- •The gallery's facade features equestrian statues 'The Offerings of Peace' and 'The Offerings of War' installed in 1926 by sculptor Gilbert Bayes.
- •Nora Heysen was the first woman to win the Archibald Prize in 1938 with her portrait of Mme Elink Schuurman.
Histoire
The Art Gallery of New South Wales was founded in 1872 as the New South Wales Academy of Art, with its first public exhibition in 1874.
Initially housed in Clark's Assembly Hall, the collection moved to a wooden annexe of the Garden Palace in 1879.
After the Garden Palace was destroyed by fire in 1882, plans for a permanent gallery culminated in the construction of a new building designed by government architect Walter Liberty Vernon in the late 19th century.
The gallery was known as the National Art Gallery of New South Wales from 1883 until 1958, when it reverted to its original name.
Throughout the 20th century, it became home to prestigious art prizes and expanded its collections and facilities, including the addition of an Asian Gallery in 2003.
Guide du lieu
Main Exhibition Galleries
These galleries showcase the permanent collection of Australian, Indigenous, European, and Asian art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Visitors can explore a wide range of styles and periods, reflecting the cultural diversity represented in the gallery.
Grand Oval Lobby1902
Completed in 1902, this grand architectural space serves as a central point within the gallery. It features classical design elements and is adorned with the names of notable painters, sculptors, and architects chosen by the board of trustees in the late 19th century.
Equestrian Statues1926
Located in front of the main facade, these statues titled 'The Offerings of Peace' and 'The Offerings of War' were created by sculptor Gilbert Bayes and installed in 1926. They symbolize contrasting themes of conflict and harmony.
Special Exhibition Spaces
The gallery hosts rotating special exhibitions and art prizes such as the Archibald and Sulman Prizes, which highlight contemporary Australian art and portraiture. These spaces provide dynamic and evolving displays throughout the year.
Contact
Téléphone: 1800 679 278
