Art Gallery of Western Australia

The Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA), founded on 31 July 1895, was opened by Sir Alexander Onslow. The foundation stone for the Beaufort Street wing of the Museum and Gallery was laid on 24 July 1901 by HRH the Duke of Cornwall and York (later King George V).

The Art Gallery Act 1959 gave control of the Western Australian Art Gallery to a Board of Trustees appointed by the Governor of Western Australia. This ended a joint institution known collectively as the Public Gallery, Museum and Art Gallery. In 1978 the Gallery was renamed the Art Gallery of Western Australia and a new building, designed by architect Charles Sierakowski, opened on 2 October 1979.

The main gallery is a unique modernist building, designed around 120 degree angles and modular wall lengths of 7, 14 and 21 metres. Its central features are a cast concrete spiral staircase and vistas between and across the nine gallery spaces that use the 120 degree angles to stimulate peripheral vision. The building was inspired by the pavilions and courtyards of the Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City.

Through the Collection, our associated programs, and stimulating exhibitions we offer Gallery visitors unique and exciting experiences of historic and contemporary Australian artists, and bring the art of the world to Western Australia.

We place particular emphasis on the arts of Australia, and due to our geographic position, the Indian Ocean Rim. Our proximity and access to many of the most exciting cultures of the world adds immeasurably to programs, exhibitions, collections and events at the State Art Gallery. Visit our Gallery and watch this site as we build for the future.

The Art Gallery of Western Australia, founded in 1895, occupies a precinct of three heritage buildings on the south-eastern corner of the Perth Cultural Centre. The Gallery houses the State Art Collection, which includes one of the words finest collections of Indigenous art, the pre-eminent collection of Western Australian art and design, as well as Australian and International art and design.

OUR VISION

To be a world-class art museum - a valued destination, an asset to the State and the pride of its people.

OUR PURPOSE

To inspire our visitors and enrich Western Australia with great collections of art.

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

AGWAs strategic objectives reflect its statutory obligations, outcomes desired by Government and a focus on delivering Our Vision. These objectives will strengthen AGWAs capacity to deliver art gallery services and enhance a national and international standing and performance.

OPENING HOURS

Wed-Mon: 10am - 5pm
CLOSED TUESDAY and Good Friday, ANZAC Day and Christmas Day

ENTRY FEES

While the Art Gallery of Western Australia is free to visit, we do ask all visitors to make a small voluntary donation as you enter. Every dollar really does make a difference.

A fee may be payable for admission to some major exhibitions.

Situated in the Perth Cultural Centre, the Art Gallery of WA is conveniently located within easy walking distance from the Perth train station, and is accessible from most Perth-bound bus routes.

Time: Wed-Mon: 10am-5pm