Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts (PICA) is a contemporary arts venue at 51 James Street in the Perth Cultural Centre. Set in a heritage building that once housed Perth Central School, it presents changing exhibitions alongside music, dance, theatre and other live performance. The small, multi-level galleries are easy to explore, with a lift between floors. Entry to exhibitions is free, though some performances charge a fee. PICA is a useful stop for emerging Australian artists and experimental work, especially when you are already visiting nearby cultural institutions.
A former school turned arts venue
PICA occupies a heritage building at 51 James Street in the Perth Cultural Centre. The building was once Perth Central School. Today, it brings visual art together with music, dance, theatre and interdisciplinary work.
Established in 1989, PICA developed from Praxis, an alternative art space active in the 1970s. It presents and produces contemporary art, with a programme that includes Australian and international artists.
Exhibitions and performances
Exhibitions change over time, so the work on view depends on when you visit. PICA has presented emerging artists and art school graduates, including Hatched, an annual exhibition focused on graduate practice from across Australia.
The programme extends beyond gallery exhibitions. Contemporary dance, theatre, new music and live art can appear alongside visual art, and some events bring different art forms together. Check the current schedule before travelling, particularly if you have a specific performance in mind. Some events are free and others charge an admission fee.
Planning a visit
The galleries occupy a small space across a couple of floors. A lift connects the levels, and the layout is straightforward to navigate. The compact scale suits a short visit; anyone wanting a broader selection of art can add the nearby Art Gallery of Western Australia to the same outing.
PICA is part of the Perth Cultural Centre, close to the WA Museum Boola Bardip and Perth train station. The building also has PICABAR on the ground level, where you can stop for a drink after seeing the exhibitions.
Perguntas frequentes
Is entry to PICA free?
Entry to exhibitions is free. Some performances and events charge a fee.
How long do you need at PICA?
Allow about 30 to 60 minutes for a gallery visit. A performance or event will take longer.
What can you see at PICA?
PICA presents changing contemporary art exhibitions, as well as dance, theatre, music and other live work. The programme varies, so check the schedule before you go.
Is PICA accessible for wheelchair users?
The building has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, elevator, seating, restroom and parking.
