QUEENSLAND ART GALLERY AND GALLERY OF MODERN ART

Welcome

Embark on an uplifting journey of art and culture at one of Australia's most visited and vibrant art precincts, the Queensland Art Gallery (QAG) and Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), affectionately known together as QAGOMA. Here, the power of art transcends boundaries, inspiring a profound connection between diverse cultures in Australia and around the world, and visitors of all ages and abilities.

Step inside these two riverside buildings to explore a rich kaleidoscope of ever-changing exhibitions. The galleries weave a distinctive tapestry of immersive and dynamic cultural experiences, integrating contemporary and historical art pieces from Australia and around the globe. Whether you are an art connoisseur or simply searching for a cultural escape, QAGOMA will envelop you in a world of creativity.

Entry to the galleries is free, apart from a small number of ticketed exhibitions, special events and programs. Tickets for these events can be purchased online or onsite upon arrival. Entry to GOMA’s much-loved Children's Art Centre is always free. 

Ambience and Atmosphere

Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art are located beside the iconic Brisbane River, occupying two architecturally acclaimed buildings in the Queensland Cultural Centre. They are a short walk from the Brisbane City Centre, via the Victoria Bridge or Kurilpa footbridge and adjacent to the South Bank precinct. Regular bus and train services can transport visitors to South Brisbane and South Bank stations. From there, the galleries are a short walk. 

River views, ample glass windows and vast, open spaces collectively create an airy, opulent feel. High ceilings and clean, minimalist spaces between the displays further enhance the sense of awe you will undoubtedly feel as you explore the diverse works of art from across time and around the world.

Inside the galleries, the atmosphere is welcoming, relaxed and full of surprises. Browse the exhibitions at your leisure; there’s no rush and no two visits will be the same. Knowledgeable volunteer guides are available most days to offer free artwork tours, lasting approximately 30 minutes. 

Not Just a Gallery

As well as everything from painting and sculptures to textiles and installation art, QAGOMA has options for visitors who prefer something a little more hands-on. Families with children can check out the Children’s Art Centre, which offers interactive artist-designed projects. The Gallery’s Cinema presents classic and rare films from around the world, and is one of a tiny handful of cinemas in Australia to screen from original 35 millimetre film prints. 

Take a break from browsing and ignite your appetite with a choice of three onsite dining options. The Gallery works with Queensland growers and suppliers to showcase the best of the region’s local produce and minimise environmental impact. Whether you’re chasing a light snack, a coffee, a decadent lunch or a refreshing glass of wine, you’ll be well looked after. The dining spaces make the most of Brisbane’s subtropical climate with outdoor dining options in the Queensland Art Gallery’s Cafe courtyard or riverside at the GOMA Bistro. 

The Gallery’s three distinct stores — two at QAG and one at GOMA — ensure you can take home a memento of your cultural excursion. Choose from captivating books, one-of-a-kind art pieces, and creative jewellery and accessories. 

History and Heritage

In the late 19th century, Queensland artists Isaac Walter Jenner and R Godfrey Rivers successfully lobbied for the creation of a state art gallery and artwork collection in Brisbane. From 1895, the Gallery occupied a series of temporary premises before the opening of its permanent home at Brisbane's South Bank in 1982. The establishment of QAGOMA’s Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art exhibition series in 1993 instilled a focus on the artwork of the region and spurred the design and construction of a second building to display a growing contemporary collection. The Gallery of Modern Art was the answer, opening in 2006, to create a two-campus art institution, Queensland’s home for the visual arts.

Accessibility

The Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art are committed to providing access for all audiences. Both buildings have wheelchair access with wide doorways and elevators for access to all levels of the facility. Accessible bathrooms are conveniently located throughout both QAG and GOMA.

For visitors arriving by public transport, detailed location access information is available on the Visit page of the QAGOMA website.

Accessible parking bays are available in the three Cultural Centre carparks. Wheelchairs can be hired free of charge if you require one. The GOMA Cinema has hearing loop for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. 

Both galleries support the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program. Visitors can find out more at the Information Desk, at either Gallery, on arrival.

For guests with sensory needs, free kits are available with resources for calming and self-regulation. Please ask a staff member for more information about these kits, or any other accessibility needs. 

For visitors who are blind or have low vision, tactile indicators and braille signage is in use throughout the Cultural Centre, including on toilet and lift facilities. Registered assistance dogs are welcome in the Gallery, with grassy areas near the building entrance suitable for toileting assistance animals. 

The Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art are located at Stanley Place, South Brisbane. The galleries are open daily from 10:00AM until 5:00PM. For any enquiries ahead of your visit please phone 07 3840 7255.