Queensland Art Gallery

Overview

The Queensland Art Gallery (QAG) is the elder sibling of GOMA, housing an extensive collection of Australian, European, and Asian art from the Renaissance through the 20th century. The Brutalist concrete building, designed by Robin Gibson, has been a South Bank institution since 1982.

Highlights

• Australian art collection: Major works by Sidney Nolan, Arthur Boyd, Margaret Preston, and Indigenous artists from across the country.
• Watermall: A spectacular three-storey indoor water feature that doubles as a contemplative sculpture space.
• European galleries: Paintings spanning Dutch Golden Age to French Impressionism, including works by Ruisdael and Pissarro.

History

The gallery was founded in 1895 and moved through several locations before Robin Gibson's purpose-built building opened in 1982 at South Bank. It received a Heritage Citation in 2009 for its architectural significance.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Free guided tours run daily at 11 am and 1 pm — check the website for schedules.
• Tip 2: Combine your visit with GOMA next door for a full art day.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.