TarraWarra Museum of Art is a contemporary art museum on Wurundjeri Country, on Healesville-Yarra Glen Road in Victoria’s Yarra Valley. Its exhibitions bring Australian and international art into a hillside gallery designed by Australian architect Allan Powell, with views across the surrounding hills. The collection includes works by artists such as Arthur Boyd, Sidney Nolan and Brett Whiteley, though what is on display changes. Join a guided tour for more context, then spend time in the reception lounge with the story of founders Eva and Marc Besen. A winery and dining options are next door.
A gallery shaped by its setting
The museum opened in 2003 in a building designed by Australian architect Allan Powell. Its rammed-earth walls and hillside position connect the gallery to the surrounding Yarra Valley without competing with the artworks inside. From the grounds, the landscape becomes part of the visit, with hills and vineyard scenery beyond the building.
The exhibitions change, so the works on view depend on when you arrive. The museum presents modern and contemporary art from Australia and overseas, alongside displays drawn from its collection. Works associated with Australian artists including Arthur Boyd, Fred Williams, Charles Blackman, Brett Whiteley and Sidney Nolan are among the collection’s holdings.
The collection and changing exhibitions
The museum’s collection spans Australian art from the 1930s to the present. Rather than expecting every work to be on view, check the current exhibition details before your visit. Displays rotate, and exhibitions have included works by artists such as Judy Watson as well as presentations of collection pieces.
The scale of the gallery on display can be modest, so this is a focused art stop, not a large museum to fill a day. If you want more from the visit, a guided tour can add context to the works and the way they have been brought together. The museum also runs exhibitions and programs relating to art of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries.
The founders and the neighbouring estate
Eva and Marc Besen founded the museum and built a collection of Australian art over many decades. The reception lounge has a hard-copy book about the family and the collection, giving visitors a place to learn how the museum began. Set aside time for it if the story behind the institution interests you.
TarraWarra Estate is next door, with a winery, cellar door and dining options. The estate’s grounds include a lake and views towards the hills. You can pair the gallery with a meal or wine tasting, or keep the visit to the museum and a walk outside. The museum has a café area for a pause after the galleries; check current details before planning a meal there.
FAQ
Where is TarraWarra Museum of Art?
It is on Healesville-Yarra Glen Road in Healesville, Victoria, in the Yarra Valley.
What kind of art is at the museum?
The museum presents modern and contemporary Australian art, alongside international exhibitions. Its collection spans Australian art from the 1930s to the present, though the works on display change.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Allow about 30 minutes for the galleries. A guided tour or time in the reception lounge can extend your visit.
Is there somewhere to eat nearby?
Yes. TarraWarra Estate, with dining options and a winery, is next door.
