About

Locally grounded
Nationally Engaged
Globally Minded

Proudly owned and operated by City of Newcastle, our distinct identity is forged by a deep commitment to supporting the arts and cultural enrichment.

We are deeply anchored in our local community. Privileged to be on the traditional lands of the Awabakal and Worimi peoples, we honour and embrace their thriving continuation of culture through song, story, dance and art.

We are a dynamic force shaping Newcastle’s cultural conversation. Our permanent collection of 7,000 works of art celebrates past and present. We celebrate local artists of the Hunter and champion global artists of international impact.

We create world-class and groundbreaking exhibitions that are innovative, unexpected, and interactive. We engage people with the transformational power of art through our enriching education and public programs.

We began as a courageous idea. Sparked by Dr Roland Pope’s bequest of his collection in 1945, a world-class gallery for Novocastrians has become a reality. Thanks to ongoing support from the Newcastle Art Gallery Foundation and Newcastle Art Gallery Society.

We are transformed. The bold reimagination of Newcastle Art Gallery in 2025 is our city’s playground to discover, expand, unwind and enjoy.

History

1945 — Philanthropist Dr Roland Pope bequeathed his private collection of 123 paintings and drawings to Newcastle on the condition of constructing an art gallery for the community.

1957 — The Newcastle City Art Gallery opened on the second floor of the War Memorial Cultural Centre. This is now the City Library.

1970s — A standalone gallery was constructed on Laman St (adjacent to the War Memorial Cultural Centre).

1977— Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II officially opened Newcastle Art Gallery on Friday 11 March.

2025 — Newcastle Art Gallery reopens following a major expansion, more than doubling its size and upgrading facilities to include a café, shop, multi-purpose and educational spaces plus a secure international standard loading dock.