National Art Gallery Canberra Review

Cass

Updated on:

National Gallery of Australia Canberra Sign

Stepping inside Australia’s National Art Gallery is always exciting. Especially to see the latest art exhibitions and how the space has been redesigned.

Usually I find the National Art Gallery of Australia very peaceful. However when I last visited there was some work underway in the NGA, some spaces were closed off and it can be quite confusing if you aren’t too familiar with the layout of the gallery. There was also some noise as the rearrangement of various exhibitions gets underway. This is only temporary though.

It’s worth checking on their website or social media or giving them a call to see what’s new or the latest before you visit.

What sort of artwork is on display at the National Art Gallery?

There is a large selection of different types of artwork on display at the National Art Gallery in a mix of media, with some permanent ongoing art exhibitions, as well as touring exhibitions. This includes Australian art and international art from around the world. There is a brilliant gallery of Australian artwork which shares the complex stories of Australian art.

Where in Canberra is the National Art Gallery located?

The National Art Gallery in Canberra is located at Parkes Place East, Parkes in Canberra, ACT 2600. The building is near to Lake Burley Griffin – so you could plan a visit to the National Art Gallery as part of a 5km walk around the Lake.

Where is the best place for car parking for the National Art Gallery?

There is parking at both the National Art Gallery and the nearby Portrait Gallery. Both these car parks you’ll need to pay/be sure to buy a parking ticket. You can also easily access the galleries by using public transport/hopping on a local bus.

Are there toilets at the National Art Gallery?

Yes there are plenty of toilets at the National Art Gallery Canberra for visitors. There’s also plenty of lockers where you can leave your coats and bags before exlporing the art galleries. If you have a large bag or a bulky coat you’ll be asked to check it in to the free lockers. The lockers are situated near to the main entrance, towards the back of the shop. the lockers are free to use with clear instructions on how to use – you’ll need to set a pin number and then use that to open the locker later.

Is Jackson Pollock’s ‘Blue Poles’ on display at the National Art Gallery?

Yes you can find Jackson Pollock’s ‘Blue Poles’ in the main art gallery at the National Art gallery in Canberra and marvel at this giant and what I feel is a very hectic painting.

Blue Poles Jackson Pollock National Art Gallery
‘Blue Poles’ by Jackson Pollock

Personally it’s not to my taste, but it is interesting to see and marvel at the hefty price tag of the piece. Earlier in 2023 it has been appraised and it’s estimated that this painting now has a value of around $500 million dollars!

What’s the National Art Gallery shop like?

The shop if a great place to pick up a wide variety of artistic gifts, jewellery, books, journals and more. You can find postcards and cards from the current exhibitions, along with a wide selection of arty keepsakes, ideal for art-inspired gifts.