Summer Art Experiences in Australia

A visit to the art gallery is often enriched by special events, learning experiences and behind-the-scenes insight. Check out the outstanding exhibitions and public programming to see out your summer at the country’s leading institutions. Enjoy!

Sydney, New South Wales – LIVE MUSIC
The Art Gallery of New South Wales presents Matisse: Life & Spirit, Masterpieces from the Centre Pompidou and have invited international jazz artist Major Zulu for an evening of soul, followed by an exclusive viewing of the exhibition on 30 January 2022.

Matisse Alive, Tivaevae display: Photography: Courtesy of AGNSW / Diana Panuccio

Canberra, ACT – DRINKS AND DINING
The National Gallery of Australia’s enticing exhibition ‘Jeffrey Smart’ celebrates a centenary since the artist was born, displaying works inspired by the environment of urban and industrial modernity. The NGA is also paying tribute to Smart’s love of Italy hosting a Tuscan Lunch every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until 30 January 2022, taking cues from the great Italian trattorias, the seasonal menu showcases locally sourced and fresh produce with Primi, Secondi and Dolce courses.

Darwin, Northern Territory – AWARD WINNING ART
Until 6 February the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory is showcasing the Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards (NATSIAA) exhibition that celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices, nationwide, within the visual arts.

Perth, Western Australia – CULTURE AND FAMILY
At Fremantle Arts Centre, Undertow explores the relationships we have with the oceans and seas, ever-changing bodies of water in constant flux. Also, on 26 February check out Family Day at the Art Gallery of Western Australia; all-ages workshops, talks, food, dance, and music as AGWA welcomes community to share stories, yarn, listen and connect with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and culture.

Adelaide, South Australia – SUPPORT EMERGING TALENT
Check out the next generation of talent in the ‘Helpmann Academy Graduate Exhibition’ who are working across multiple disciplines from Thursday 17 February until Saturday 19 March 2022.

Gold Coast, Queensland – PLAYFUL CREATIVITY
Home of the Arts shares ‘Art Mixtape’ with us, a bold, beautiful and cheeky exhibition of photography, painting, sculpture and video by some of Australia’s leading artists. 


Melbourne, Victoria – FASHION AND FUN, AL FRESCO
Until 30 January the National Gallery of Victoria is open by night with after-hours access to ‘Gabrielle Chanel Fashion Manifesto’ and all levels of NGV International until 9pm Mondays to Thursdays, plus DJs, dining, bars, French cinema and more. There’s even a pink pool to cool your toes with a cocktail in hand, and pop-up dining nearby.


Hobart, Tasmania – ENLIVEN THE SENSES
Weekend of 28-30 January the Museum of New and Old Art is hosting MONA FOMA an annual event of art, music, performance. This is a ticketed event paired with many free experiences to attend.