At 1 Finnerty Street in Fremantle, this arts centre brings contemporary exhibitions and live events into a Gothic limestone building first used as an asylum in the 1860s. Walk through the galleries, pause in the quiet courtyard and browse FOUND, the shop for locally made art, craft and books. The exhibitions change, so check the centre’s website before you go. There is also an on-site café for a break between galleries, and entry to the centre is free.
An asylum turned arts centre
The centre occupies a limestone building constructed in the 1860s by convict labour. It began as the Fremantle Lunatic Asylum and Invalid Depot, then served different purposes over the following decades, including as a women’s home, a wartime base and a technical college. The site became an arts centre in the early 1970s.
That history is part of the visit, but the building is now a working place for art and community events. Its Gothic forms, courtyards and gardens give the galleries a distinct setting. Take time to look at the exterior and grounds as well as the exhibitions inside.
Exhibitions, workshops and music
The exhibition programme changes regularly and includes contemporary work by local, Australian and international artists. Indigenous artists are among those whose work has appeared at the centre, though the programme varies. A small exhibition can still make for a worthwhile stop, particularly if you are interested in seeing art in a heritage setting.
The centre also runs creative courses and workshops across a range of art forms, alongside performances and community events. Live music is part of its programme, with Sunday afternoon sessions in the summer months. The grounds and courtyard are used for outdoor events, giving the centre a more informal feel when music is on. Check the website to see what is scheduled during your visit.
The shop and a café break
FOUND sells work by local makers, including crafts and books. Its stock includes art titles as well as books connected to Western Australian writing, Fremantle history, design and architecture. It is a useful stop if you want a locally made item or a book tied to the area rather than a generic souvenir.
An on-site café gives you a place to pause after the galleries or while spending time in the courtyard. The available material does not specify particular dishes, so check the café’s current menu if you have a specific order in mind.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is entry to Walyalup Fremantle Arts Centre free?
Yes. Entry to the centre is free.
What can you see at Fremantle Arts Centre?
The centre has changing contemporary art exhibitions in a historic limestone building. It also has a courtyard, gardens, a shop and an on-site café.
When is the Sunday music?
Sunday music sessions take place in summer, typically between 2 and 4 pm. Check the centre’s website for the current programme.
Is there parking at the arts centre?
Free and paid parking are listed at the centre, but parking can be difficult. Visitors have also parked across the road.
