Queensland Art Gallery, Brisbane - A person walking past a building with a checkerboard design on it
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Queensland Art Gallery Brisbane

4.7
·587 reviews·South Brisbane, Australia

Brisbane's premier art destination, showcasing diverse Australian and international contemporary art in stunning modern architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Queensland Art Gallery, Brisbane - A person walking past a building with a checkerboard design on it

Queensland Art Gallery Brisbane

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Brisbane's premier art destination, showcasing diverse Australian and international contemporary art in stunning modern architecture.

4.7
(587 reviews)

"A truly beautiful space with its impressive collection and exhibitions."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Entry, Special Exhibitions

General admission is free! Special exhibitions may require tickets. :ticket:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything! :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Indigenous Australian Art

Indigenous Australian Art

Australian Cinémathèque and various galleries

Discover powerful works by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, reflecting rich cultural narratives and contemporary issues.

Instagram
Contemporary International Art

Contemporary International Art

Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)

Immerse yourself in cutting-edge global art, from thought-provoking installations to vibrant paintings and sculptures.

TikTok
Judy Watson Exhibition

Judy Watson Exhibition

Specific exhibition spaces

Explore the impactful works of Judy Watson, focusing on cultural collections and repatriation themes.

Instagram
Asia Pacific Triennial

Asia Pacific Triennial

Various galleries

Experience this major exhibition showcasing contemporary art from across the Asia Pacific region.

Reddit

Planning Your Visit

Free Entry, Special Exhibitions Extra

Most of the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) is free to explore, but keep an eye out for special ticketed exhibitions. Plan your visit around these if they pique your interest, as they often feature world-class collections. Reddit

South Bank Cluster

QAGOMA is conveniently located in Brisbane's South Bank precinct, alongside the Queensland Museum and State Library. You can easily spend a full day exploring this cultural hub. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Wednesdays & Fridays, evenings
Why
Special exhibitions often open late
Crowd
Medium
When
During special exhibitions
Why
See unique, world-class art
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

If you are an contemporary art lover, you must definitely visit ilhams gallery! Ive visited the past 3 exhibitions here and all of them were very impressive. Thematic exhibitions curating stories by extremely talented artists! Its also very easily accessible by public transport as its only a 3 min walk from the ampang park LRT station. This is a weekend activity you must not miss. 📍Ilhams Gal...
@explorewithjake
49.7K likes • 582.2K views

🎯 Free Entry, Special Exhibitions

General admission is free! Special exhibitions may require tickets. Reddit :ticket:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything! :athletic_shoe:

NOT NATIONAL ART GALLERY, NOT ILH*M GALLERY (no offense, I love them all) JUST CAAANT believe we finally visiting this (not so) hidden gems of 9 floors art galleries again!! . Location is at the end of the video . • FREE ENTRY • Forget overcrowded places— BET YOUR MONEY ON ME, you won’t find your exes with the reused date here (don’t ask how I know) • SOLO DATES? Say less— you can just wander arou...
@itsnotwink
11.4K likes • 121.9K views
QAGOMA is currently showing a very comprehensive collection of Judy Watson works, mundama kundama wandaraba jabbibirri featuring the recurring theme of the importance of cultural collections, and the issue of repatriation from national and international institutions. Themes akin to the beautiful works we commissioned for the Capella Hotel, Sydney. 1. Burnt Shield 2. Flinders Chart 1803 with cotto...
susan.freeman.frd
72 likes • 0 views

📱 Use the QAGOMA App

Enhance your visit with audio guides and exhibition info. :iphone:

☕ Cafe & Restaurant Onsite

Grab a bite or coffee without leaving the gallery complex. :coffee:

Queensland Art Gallery 木質白色系 視覺延伸的空間設計
____.s.191.a
52 likes • 1.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Entry, Special Exhibitions

General admission is free! Special exhibitions may require tickets. Reddit :ticket:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything! :athletic_shoe:

📱 Use the QAGOMA App

Enhance your visit with audio guides and exhibition info. :iphone:

☕ Cafe & Restaurant Onsite

Grab a bite or coffee without leaving the gallery complex. :coffee:

📸 Photography Allowed (Mostly)

Check signage for specific areas where photography is permitted. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(587 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise QAGOMA for its impressive and diverse collections, spanning both Australian and international art. The gallery's modern architecture and thoughtful curation are frequently highlighted as positive aspects, making it a beautiful space to explore. Many appreciate the free general admission, though special exhibitions can incur costs. The convenient South Bank location adds to its appeal.

"Really great gallery with nicely detailed descriptions and information about the artists and artwork.

The exhibition is a nice blend of different styles and media, from diverse artists from different periods.
The arrangement of the works makes it especially intriguing, since no style or period overstays its welcome. It's not room over room with old paintings or statues, but a nice mix that always surprises, whenever you turn a corner."

Bo Leberecht

"It was a truly beautiful space with its impressive collection and exhibitions. The gallery shops offer art related items, books, cups, loose leaf tea, and hand cream. This place is right next to the museum and it's located in the middle of the city which makes it very convenient to visit!"

Tina Johami

"A very impressive brutalist architecture building. It looks and feels structurally impregnable, stark yet comforting.
An extensive variety and collection of Australian and international artists'works.
A thoroughly enjoyable experience."

Riccardo Catenacci

What People Like

Diverse art collections
Impressive architecture
Free general admission

What People Dislike

Cost of special exhibitions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

QAGOMA is easily accessible in Brisbane's South Bank. You can take a bus, train to South Brisbane station, or even a ferry to the South Bank ferry terminal. Driving is also an option with nearby parking, though it can be pricey. TikTokReddit

Yes, there are several parking options in the South Bank precinct, including the Cultural Centre car park. However, it's often recommended to use public transport due to potential congestion and cost. TikTok

Absolutely! It's a pleasant walk across the Victoria Bridge from the CBD to South Bank, taking about 15-20 minutes. Reddit

Trains to South Brisbane station or buses that stop at the Cultural Centre bus station are very convenient. The ferry is also a scenic option. TikTokReddit

Yes, QAGOMA is very well-connected by public transport, making it easy to reach from anywhere in Brisbane. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission to the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) is free. However, special ticketed exhibitions will incur a fee. Reddit

QAGOMA is typically open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with extended hours until 8 pm on Wednesdays and Fridays. It's closed on Good Friday, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date hours. Reddit

For general entry, no booking is required as it's free. However, for popular special exhibitions, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid queues. Reddit

Discounts may be available for concession card holders, students, and children for special exhibitions. Check the QAGOMA website for details. Reddit

QAGOMA is closed on Good Friday, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day. It's best to check their website for specific public holiday hours. Reddit

🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience

Highlights include Indigenous Australian art, contemporary international collections, and the rotating Asia Pacific Triennial. Keep an eye out for specific artist retrospectives like Judy Watson. TikTokInstagramReddit

Yes, QAGOMA often has interactive displays and family-friendly activities. Check their website for current programs. TikTok

Photography is generally permitted in most areas for personal use, but always look for signage indicating restrictions, especially for special exhibitions. TikTok

Yes, QAGOMA offers free guided tours that provide deeper insights into the artworks and exhibitions. Check the daily schedule upon arrival. Reddit

To fully appreciate the collections, allocate at least 2-3 hours. If you plan to see special exhibitions and enjoy the cafe, you could easily spend half a day or more. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, QAGOMA has a cafe and a restaurant offering various dining options, from light snacks to full meals. TikTok

The cafe typically offers coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and light meals, perfect for a break during your visit. TikTok

The restaurant offers a more formal dining experience and prices can vary. The cafe is generally more budget-friendly. TikTok

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the galleries. It's best to dine at the onsite cafe or restaurant. TikTok

South Bank is packed with diverse dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining, just a short walk away. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally allowed in most areas of QAGOMA, but always check for specific signage, especially for temporary exhibitions. TikTok

Flash photography is typically not allowed as it can damage artworks. Always adhere to the gallery's guidelines. TikTok

Yes, the architecture of the buildings, the diverse artworks, and the surrounding South Bank precinct offer many great photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram

The grand entrance, the outdoor spaces, and areas with striking installations often make for memorable shots. TikTokInstagram

Professional photography or filming usually requires special permission and may incur fees. Contact QAGOMA directly for inquiries. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

QAGOMA is a fantastic destination for families. Beyond the general exhibitions, they often have dedicated children's art centres and interactive spaces designed to engage young minds. Look out for family-friendly tours and workshops that make art accessible and fun for all ages. TikTok

Remember to check the QAGOMA website for their current kids' programs and activities, as these can change seasonally. The South Bank precinct itself also offers plenty of open spaces for kids to run around after a gallery visit. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

The biggest win for budget travelers is that general admission to QAGOMA is free! This allows you to explore a vast collection of art without spending a dime. Reddit While special exhibitions have a fee, you can still have a rich and rewarding experience by focusing on the permanent collections. Reddit

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the nearby South Bank Parklands, or grab an affordable coffee and snack from the gallery's cafe to keep costs down. Utilizing public transport also saves on parking fees. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Students

For serious art lovers and students, QAGOMA offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with a diverse range of art. The extensive collections of Australian and international art, coupled with rotating special exhibitions, provide ample material for study and inspiration. InstagramReddit

Consider visiting the Queensland College of Art Galleries at Griffith University nearby, which often showcases emerging artists and offers affordable pieces for sale. Reddit The gallery's free tours and extensive exhibition catalogues can also be invaluable resources. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Indigenous Australian Art

QAGOMA is a significant destination for experiencing Indigenous Australian art. The gallery houses an extensive collection that spans historical and contemporary works by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. These pieces often explore deep cultural connections to land, spirituality, and the ongoing impact of history. Instagram

Visitors can expect to see a diverse range of media, including paintings, sculptures, bark paintings, and multimedia installations. The Australian Cinémathèque within QAGOMA also screens films by Indigenous filmmakers, offering another lens through which to understand these rich cultural expressions. Instagram

Many exhibitions are curated with input from Indigenous communities, ensuring authentic and respectful representation. It's an opportunity to engage with stories and perspectives that are vital to Australia's cultural identity. Instagram

The Architecture of QAGOMA

The Queensland Art Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) are architectural marvels in themselves. Designed with a brutalist aesthetic, the buildings present a stark yet comforting presence on the South Bank. The expansive spaces and thoughtful design create an immersive environment for art appreciation. [^Review]

The interplay of light and shadow within the galleries is a key feature, enhancing the viewing experience of the artworks. The Queensland Art Gallery, in particular, features a beautiful water mall and open courtyards, offering moments of tranquility amidst the art. Instagram

These structures are not just containers for art but contribute to the overall experience, providing a sense of scale and grandeur that complements the diverse collections housed within. [^Review]

Special Exhibitions and the Asia Pacific Triennial

While general admission is free, QAGOMA frequently hosts world-class special exhibitions that draw international acclaim. These ticketed events often feature renowned artists and significant collections, offering unique opportunities to see art that might not otherwise be accessible. Reddit

A cornerstone of QAGOMA's programming is the Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art (APT). This major exhibition, held every few years, showcases cutting-edge art from across the Asia Pacific region, providing a vital platform for artists from diverse cultural backgrounds. Reddit

Attending an APT exhibition or another special event is highly recommended for a comprehensive QAGOMA experience. It's advisable to book tickets in advance for these popular shows to avoid disappointment. Reddit

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