The University of Queensland Art Museum — Attraction in Brisbane City

Originally known as the Darnell Collection, The University of Queensland Art Collection began in the 1940s as the result of a generous financial bequest by John Darnell. While funds were originally applied to endow a special library collection, the University redirected the remainder of these funds towards establishing a Fine Art Library.

Dr JV Duhig, Professor RP Cummings and Professor HC Richards, assisted by a group of artists and advisors, within a few years assembled a collection of some 400 works. At the time, The University of Queensland did not have an art museum, and the collection was hung in the main geology lab at the University's original home in George Street.

The inaugural exhibition of the collection was held in 1945 in George Street. Just over 30 years later, in 1976, the University Art Museum was established in the Forgan Smith Tower on the St Lucia campus. The first director of the Art Museum, and head of the Department of Fine Arts, was Nancy Underhill (later Associate Professor Underhill). Her focus was to acquire works by leading contemporary artists with a bias towards Queensland artists.

Underhill was passionate about encouraging her students to use the museum as a ‘laboratory’, enabling them to learn a range of curatorial skills. Underhill was succeeded in 1996 by Ross Searle, who oversaw the Art Museum’s move in 2004 from the Forgan Smith Tower to its present site. Searle also implemented the Art Museum’s development of a National Collection of Artists’ Self Portraits and a bi-annual self-portraiture prize.

Over the years, the Collection has grown significantly, and by the time Searle departed in 2007, it numbered over 4000 pieces. The University of Queensland Art Museum – under the directorship of Mr Nick Mitzevich and now Dr Campbell B Gray, has continued to acquire the work of important Queensland and Australian contemporary artists, and to encourage gifts and bequests.

In keeping with its role as a university art museum, a range of exhibitions and public programs, and scholarly publications, are initiated, which explore contemporary and historical visual art...

The art museum, located within UQ St. Lucia Campus Building 11, known as the 'James & Mary Emelia Mayne Centre,' offers a unique cultural experience. I've had the chance to explore it once, and here's what I found:

Upon entry, visitors are required to store their bags at the front desk, ensuring a clutter-free and respectful environment inside. The museum's offerings can vary widely depending on the current exhibition. While this variability keeps things fresh and exciting, it's worth noting that the experience is free, so there's no financial risk. However, it's advisable to check their opening hours in advance since they often dedicate considerable time to prepare for exhibitions.

One potential improvement could be the introduction of an online platform to provide real-time information on whether the museum is open or closed for the day. This would enhance visitor convenience and ensure a more seamless experience.

In summary, the art museum at UQ St. Lucia Campus is a valuable cultural resource. While its offerings may vary, the free admission and unique exhibitions make it a worthwhile visit for art enthusiasts and curious...

I visited the UQ art museum on the 26 of Oct. This museum is recommended if you are a fan of history and art at the same time! People can walk around and listen to the audio or read the information which contains author ideas, inspiration and their love of Queensland history. There is a place at reception to keep your belongings safe for free and visitors do not need to buy a ticket to enter this museum. I can be sure that this museum will satisfy both your...