Go on a journey through two centuries of art as you explore the galleries of one of Australia’s oldest regional galleries and its sleek contemporary wing.
Bendigo Art Gallery is a revered regional institution that presents its captivating holding of 19th-, 20th- and 21st-century art through a curated series of exhibitions and public programs. Explore magnificently restored 19th-century galleries and a modern expansion and discover a superb collection of painting, sculpture, photography and decorative arts.
Notice the original Victorian façade of the gallery, which features red-and-white brickwork and an arched entryway. Dating back to 1887, the institution’s magnificent Victorian- and Edwardian-era galleries have been beautifully restored and provide a fitting backdrop for the extensive collection of 19th-century European and Australian art. Peruse landscapes and scenes from Australia’s early history and admire the charming stuccowork and decorative elements throughout the exhibition rooms.
Make your way to the modern addition to Bendigo Art Gallery, which is a series of exhibition halls designed by acclaimed architect Karl Fender. Unveiled in 2014, this contemporary wing adds over 6,460 square feet (600 square meters) of exhibition space to the gallery. Among the contemporary Australian artists in the gallery’s collection are Patricia Piccinini, Bill Henson, Fiona Hall and Emily Kame Kngwarreye. Admire the exceptional contemporary architecture that houses the gallery’s extensive and varied selection of artworks.
Bendigo Art Gallery has a thought-provoking public program that includes artist talks, seminars and workshops that interpret the touring and permanent exhibitions. Go on a free guided tour of the permanent displays or call ahead to organize a customized special-interest tour. Order breakfast, lunch, coffee or a snack at the gallery café. The gallery shop stocks a wide range of gift items, collectibles and keepsakes.
Visit Bendigo Art Gallery while exploring the city’s downtown area on foot. You can also reach the gallery by car or bus and it’s a 15-minute walk from Bendigo Train Station. The gallery is open daily, except for Mondays and Christmas Day. There are varying ticket prices for the gallery’s temporary and touring exhibitions. For more exhibitions curated by the team at Bendigo Art Gallery, check out the nearby Post Office Gallery.
