Philip Bacon Galleries is a commercial art gallery at 2 Arthur Street in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane. Open since 1974, it presents Australian art across five exhibition spaces, with works by established and contemporary artists, including Indigenous artists such as Emily Kame Kngwarreye and Paddy Bedford. The gallery’s 2001 redesign brought natural light into a building that retains ornate ceiling details alongside clean wooden finishes. Visit during a new exhibition to see a changing selection, or ask staff about the works on display.
A Fortitude Valley gallery since 1974
Philip Bacon opened the gallery in 1974 after friends, including artists Charles Blackman and Lawrence Daws, encouraged him to enter the art trade. The premises began as a former tile warehouse in Fortitude Valley, adapted for exhibitions. Over time, the gallery became an established part of Brisbane’s art scene.
A major redesign in 2001, planned by Cox Architecture, changed the building into a light-filled exhibition venue. The interiors combine preserved ceiling mouldings with modern wooden elements. Natural light gives the rooms a classical feel, while the restrained finishes keep attention on the art.
Five spaces for Australian art
The gallery has five exhibition spaces, with displays focused on established and contemporary Australian artists. Works associated with artists such as Charles Blackman, Cressida Campbell, William Robinson, Rick Amor, Peter Churcher and Michael Zavros have been presented here. The exhibitions change, so check the gallery’s website if you have a particular artist or show in mind.
Australian Indigenous art is also part of the gallery’s programme. Emily Kame Kngwarreye and Paddy Bedford are among the artists named in connection with its exhibitions. The setting allows visitors to encounter these works alongside art from other periods and practices; take time to look closely at the individual pieces rather than treating the rooms as a single display.
The stockroom and your visit
Beyond its exhibition rooms, the gallery is known for a substantial stockroom of Australian art, with works dating from the nineteenth century through to the present. This wider range gives the gallery a broader scope than its current exhibition alone. Ask staff whether there are works relevant to your interests.
The gallery is at 2 Arthur Street in Fortitude Valley, within Brisbane’s gallery district. Entry is described as free in the supplied visitor information. Exhibition openings and other special events may be listed on the gallery’s website; check there before planning around one. If you are visiting for a particular show, confirm that it is on view before making the trip.
Perguntas frequentes
Is entry to Philip Bacon Galleries free?
The supplied visitor information says entry is free.
Where is Philip Bacon Galleries?
It is at 2 Arthur Street, Fortitude Valley, Brisbane.
What can you see at the gallery?
The gallery presents Australian art across five exhibition spaces, including works by Indigenous and contemporary artists. Its stockroom includes Australian works dating from the nineteenth century to today.
When should you visit?
A new exhibition is a good time to go. Check the gallery website for current displays and event information.
