Art Gallery of Western Australia | Perth

Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA)

The Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA) is one of Perth’s premier cultural institutions, showcasing an extensive collection of Australian, Indigenous, and international art. Located in the heart of the Perth Cultural Centre, AGWA is a must-visit destination for art lovers, offering a diverse range of paintings, sculptures, photography, and contemporary installations.

Overview

Location: Perth Cultural Centre, James Street Mall, Perth, Western Australia

Established: 1895

Type: Public art museum

Collection Size: Over 18,000 works of art

Admission: Free entry to the main galleries, special exhibitions may have a fee

Highlights: Indigenous art, Australian modernism, international contemporary art, and rotating exhibitions

Architecture and Space

AGWA is housed in a modernist building designed in 1979, featuring clean lines, open spaces, and natural light, making it an ideal setting for viewing artworks. The AGWA Rooftop, opened in 2021, offers a stunning sculpture walk with panoramic views of Perth’s skyline, making it a unique blend of art and urban scenery.

Collection Highlights

AGWA holds one of the most significant art collections in Australia, with a particular focus on Western Australian, Aboriginal, and contemporary international art.

1. Indigenous and First Nations Art

One of AGWA’s most remarkable collections is its Indigenous Australian art, featuring works by Noongar, Kimberley, and Pilbara artists, as well as artists from the Northern Territory and Queensland.

Dot paintings, bark paintings, and woven sculptures showcase the rich traditions and spiritual stories of Aboriginal communities.

Featured artists include Emily Kame Kngwarreye, Rover Thomas, and Queenie McKenzie.

2. Australian Art

AGWA’s collection spans early colonial works to modern Australian art, offering insight into the evolution of artistic expression in Australia.

Tom Roberts, Frederick McCubbin, and Arthur Streeton represent the Heidelberg School (Australia’s version of Impressionism).

Sidney Nolan, Brett Whiteley, and Margaret Preston contribute to Australia’s modernist movement.

3. Contemporary International Art

AGWA frequently hosts international exhibitions featuring modern and contemporary artists from around the world. These exhibits often showcase sculpture, digital art, and multimedia installations.

4. The State Art Collection

As the home of the State Art Collection, AGWA preserves some of Western Australia’s most treasured artistic works. This includes:

19th and 20th-century European artworks

Contemporary photography and video installations

Modern sculptures and abstract pieces

Special Features and Exhibitions

AGWA is known for its dynamic exhibition program, featuring rotating temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent collection.

AGWA Rooftop Sculpture Walk: A new addition offering outdoor sculpture displays with stunning city views.

The Pulse Exhibition: An annual exhibition showcasing emerging young artists from Western Australia.

International Touring Exhibitions: AGWA regularly hosts world-renowned traveling exhibitions, featuring works from global institutions.

Visitor Experience and Facilities

AGWA is designed to be inclusive and engaging for all visitors, offering a range of programs and services:

Guided Tours: Free and paid tours provide in-depth insights into the collections.

Workshops and Educational Programs: Interactive sessions for children and adults, including art-making activities.

Café and Gift Shop: The gallery has a stylish café offering coffee and snacks, as well as a shop selling art books, prints, and unique gifts.

Events and Film Screenings: AGWA frequently collaborates with Perth Festival, Sculpture by the Sea, and other major events.

How to Get There

By Train: The gallery is a short walk from Perth Train Station.

By Bus: Several bus routes stop near the Perth Cultural Centre.

By Car: Nearby parking is available, but spaces can be limited during peak hours.

Conclusion

The Art Gallery of Western Australia is a cultural gem, offering a diverse collection of art that spans Indigenous traditions, Australian modernism, and global contemporary pieces. Whether you're an art enthusiast or a casual visitor, AGWA provides a visually inspiring and thought-provoking experience, making it a must-visit destination in Perth.