Art Gallery of Ballarat
Art Gallery of Ballarat things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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It’s free entry!!! Sorry I had to start with it’s free as it’s an important thing for travellers and I believe everyone should go to as many art galleries as they can. Staff are fantastic and helpful. I came here with kids so they pointed out some art works that they thought the kids would like. Plus they have a drawing area upstairs for them to create. Great mix of Contemporary arts, aboriginal arts, more traditional artwork in large gold frames as well. While we were here Kait James had her exhibition here called hang us out to dry. A bit controversial with the captain cook embroidered tea towel & there is a section that I didn’t go to as I had my kids with me. I won’t write it here, just in case the review is blocked by Google. See photos and my TikTok video @splitthebill Highly recommend you to visit and add to your itinerary.
Split the BillSplit the Bill
20
During a day trip to Ballarat, I stopped by the Art Gallery of Ballarat and was delighted to find free entry. The gallery boasts a fantastic collection with a mix of permanent and temporary art pieces, offering a diverse and enriching experience. The availability of onsite facilities, including bathrooms and a popup cafe, added convenience to the visit. The staff were friendly and accommodating, contributing to a pleasant atmosphere. Additionally, the presence of a gift shop provided an opportunity to take a piece of the experience home. Overall, a wonderful visit to the Art Gallery of Ballarat with a wealth of artistic treasures to explore.
Amy ElizabethAmy Elizabeth
10
This is my favourite regional gallery to visit on my rostered weekends off. There’s three reasons why. It’s really spacious and quiet on the second floor which gives me ample of time to just sit there and stare at John Perceval’s oil on canvas for hours on end, uninterrupted. There’s also always new paintings updated on the ground floor every time I visit which makes it feel like I’m visiting the first time, all over again. And thirdly, it’s hidden just right next door to a string of yummy cafes on Lydiard street and only minutes walk from Sturt. The train ride up here is also really quick and comfy 😊
Shirly ShenShirly Shen
00
A beautiful, purpose built art gallery whose elegance has withstood the test of time. There is a confronting yet moving exhibition which confront’s the unfortunate child abuse that occurred within the community by religious figures; however, it is thoughtfully presented for reflection. A very poignant exhibition as Ballarat heals wounds and moves on from this terrible period. The staff were extremely engaging and even took the time to ask me about my experience at the gallery as a non-local. Beautiful collection of colonial, indigenous and contemporary pieces also
David MaddisonDavid Maddison
00
Soloman J Soloman's Ajax and Cassandra was larger than life and mesmeriising; the tall indigenous carvings were transformative; We've Clampt The Hill Together, by John Morgan was delightful in the timelessness of love (1884); Charles Wheeler's Dreams When The Day Forgets was evocative; the covid face sketches, the snake of teapots on the wall, David Fraser's etchings , Clair Blake's Bottles, and the finely glazed China were just a few of the visual delights. The atmosphere of the building made it doubly delightful.
Sue WSue W
10
Thanks to Gold Rush prosperity, Ballarat has one of the best galleries in Australia outside of the capital cities. Within an few minutes walk from the railway station, the gallery is easily accessible. Friendly staff and well-lit spaces, plus its own cafe, complete the visitors' experience. We made a special trip to see the the Becoming Modern exhibition, featuring women artists, which did much to acknowledge the very important role women played in moving Australian art beyond naturalistic depiction of gumtrees.
David MuirDavid Muir
10
Nearby Attractions Of Art Gallery of Ballarat
Sturt Street Gardens
St Patrick's Cathedral
Hotel Vera Ballarat
Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute
Post Office Gallery
Ballarat Winter Festival Ice Rink

Sturt Street Gardens
4.5
(110)Click for details

St Patrick's Cathedral
4.6
(85)Click for details

Hotel Vera Ballarat
4.9
(75)Click for details

Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute
4.5
(31)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Art Gallery of Ballarat
Schnitz Ballarat
Beechworth Bakery Ballarat
The Forge Pizzeria
Golden City Hotel
Robin Hood Hotel
Grill'd Ballarat
Meigas
Hop Temple
The Sporting Globe Bar & Grill Ballarat
Pizza Hut Ballarat Dine In

Schnitz Ballarat
4.8
(1.6K)Click for details

Beechworth Bakery Ballarat
4.2
(881)Click for details

The Forge Pizzeria
4.3
(769)Click for details

Golden City Hotel
4.1
(686)Click for details
Basic Info
Address
40 Lydiard St N, Ballarat Central VIC 3350, Australia
Map
Phone
+61 3 5320 5858
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Website
artgalleryofballarat.com.au
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Reviews
Overview
4.7
(734 reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
accessibility
Description
The Art Gallery of Ballarat is the oldest regional art gallery in Australia. It was established in 1884 as the Ballarat Fine Art Gallery by a company of interested citizens led by James Oddie.
attractions: Sturt Street Gardens, St Patrick's Cathedral, Hotel Vera Ballarat, Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute, Post Office Gallery, Ballarat Winter Festival Ice Rink, restaurants: Schnitz Ballarat, Beechworth Bakery Ballarat, The Forge Pizzeria, Golden City Hotel, Robin Hood Hotel, Grill'd Ballarat, Meigas, Hop Temple, The Sporting Globe Bar & Grill Ballarat, Pizza Hut Ballarat Dine In

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