The National Gallery of Australia is on Parkes Place East in Canberra’s parliamentary precinct. Its collection brings Australian and international art together, from Sidney Nolan’s Ned Kelly paintings to Jackson Pollock’s Blue Poles. You can also see works by Monet, Salvador Dalí, Andy Warhol and Francis Bacon. Most sections are free to enter, and the galleries’ spacious layout suits an unhurried visit. Outside, the sculpture garden and the building’s distinctive architecture add more to explore.
Australian and international works
The collection spans Australian, Indigenous, Asian, European and contemporary art. Among the works named as highlights are Jackson Pollock’s Blue Poles and Sidney Nolan’s paintings of Ned Kelly. The gallery also holds a Monet Water Lilies painting, Salvador Dalí’s Lobster Telephone, an Andy Warhol print of Elvis and a triptych by Francis Bacon.
These works give you a reason to move between different periods and styles rather than focus on a single kind of art. The gallery’s spacious rooms make it possible to explore at your own pace. Special exhibitions change over time, so the art on view can vary from one visit to another.
The building and sculpture garden
The purpose-built gallery stands within Canberra’s parliamentary precinct. Its architecture is striking enough to draw attention before you enter, and the building’s scale continues through the gallery spaces. Outside, the sculpture garden offers another way to encounter art during your visit.
Beginning outdoors can make a natural first stop before you move into the collection. The garden is one of the gallery’s highlights, so leave time for it rather than spending your whole visit inside.
Planning your visit
Entry is free to most sections, including special exhibitions, though the gallery also hosts exhibitions that are distinct from its permanent collection. Free guided tours run in the morning and afternoon and can add context to what you see. The gallery has a café, restrooms and accessible entrances, lifts, seating and restrooms. Parking options include paid parking and free street parking.
If you bring a bag and use a locker, write down or remember its number or code; it can be confusing to find your locker again inside. For a fuller visit, set aside several hours to move through the collection, any current exhibitions and the sculpture garden without rushing.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is entry to the National Gallery of Australia free?
Most sections are free to enter, including special exhibitions.
How long should I spend at the gallery?
Allow several hours to explore the galleries, exhibitions and sculpture garden.
Are guided tours available?
Free guided tours run in the morning and afternoon.
Does the gallery have a café?
Yes. There is a café on site.
