On the western side of Circular Quay in The Rocks, the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia brings together art by living Australian and international artists. Its collection spans painting, photography, sculpture, works on paper and moving image, with a significant presence of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. Rotating exhibitions add new work to explore, and the rooftop café and sculpture terrace look across the harbour towards the Opera House. General admission to the permanent collection is free; check ahead to see whether a temporary exhibition requires a ticket.
Art from Australia and beyond
The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, or MCA, is on George Street in The Rocks, beside Circular Quay. It is dedicated to contemporary art by living artists from Australia and around the world. The collection includes painting, photography, sculpture, works on paper and moving image, alongside installations and other forms of multimedia work.
The permanent collection has more than 4,000 works by Australian artists. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists have a significant place in it, and works by artists from these communities make up more than a third of the collection. Displays change, so the works on view depend on when you visit. Temporary exhibitions bring in further Australian and international artists.
The collection and changing exhibitions
The MCA collects contemporary art across a range of media, and a dedicated floor presents works from its collection. Other galleries host changing exhibitions, including shows by international artists and emerging practitioners. The museum has also presented exhibitions exploring subjects such as artificial intelligence and art.
Allow time to look at how artists use different materials and formats, from photography and sculpture to moving images and installations. The MCA’s focus on living artists means the exhibitions and displays change; check the current programme before your visit if you have a particular show in mind. General admission to the permanent collection is free, but some temporary exhibitions may require a separate ticket.
The building and harbour outlook
The museum occupies the former Maritime Services Board building at Circular Quay. Its original Art Deco-style structure sits alongside the Mordant Wing, a modern extension completed in 2012. The two buildings give the museum a distinct presence among the older streets and buildings of The Rocks.
Head to the rooftop café and sculpture terrace for views across the harbour towards the Sydney Opera House. The museum also has a café and restaurant, so you can take a break between galleries. Free guided tours are available at scheduled times; ask the museum about the day’s arrangements when you arrive. Families can also look out for creative activities and programmes, which vary throughout the year.
Perguntas frequentes
Is the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia free?
General admission to the permanent collection is free. Some temporary exhibitions may require a separate ticket.
What can you see at the museum?
The collection includes contemporary painting, photography, sculpture, works on paper and moving image, with a significant representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. Temporary exhibitions change over time.
Does the museum have a café?
Yes. There is a rooftop café and sculpture terrace with views across Circular Quay towards the Opera House, as well as a restaurant.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
The museum has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, lift and restrooms.
