The Art Gallery of New South Wales in Sydney will open at the end of the year! A must-see exhibition of large sculptures in the World War II oil tank exhibition hall, and the opening exhibition of the new gallery.

Art Gallery of New South Wales is pleased to announce the opening series of events and key works for the expansion project, including a large sculpture custom-made by international artist Adrián Villar Rojas for the grand underground oil tank exhibition hall of the pre-World War II era, a huge bag-shaped installation by Waradgerie tribal artist, and a vibrant floral sculpture by Yayoi Kusama.

The museum also announced the exhibition schedule and collection display plan as part of the expansion project “Sydney Modern Project”. The opening series will showcase outstanding works from over 900 Australian and international artists, officially unveiling on December 3, much to the excitement of art enthusiasts!

The expanded art museum is located on Gadigal land, overlooking Sydney Harbour, including a new building designed by SANAA and the existing late 19th-century building, connected by a beautifully designed art garden.

The recent acquisitions and first-time exhibitions at the art museum include commissioned works by artists Khadim Ali, Karla Dickens, Jeffrey Gibson, Samara Golden, Barkley L Hendricks, Kimsooja, Simone Leigh, Sanné Mestrom, Elizabeth Pulie, Shireen Taweel, Howie Tsui, and Justene Williams.

Argentinian-born Peruvian artist Adrián Villar Rojas is the inaugural commissioned artist for the Tank exhibition hall at the art museum, known for his large-scale site-specific installation artworks. This time, he specially created “At the End of the Imagined,” providing the audience with an immersive and unique art experience.

In addition, there are 9 extraordinary new commissioned art pieces that will be exhibited inside and outside the new building, including three playful bronze figures welcoming visitors in the plaza, a moving video work “Ground Loop” overlooking the courtyard of the new building, Richard Lewer’s series of paintings documenting the workers involved in constructing the new building, and Yayoi Kusama’s “Flowers That Bloom in the Universe,” which will be placed on a tiered platform overlooking Woolloomooloo Bay, shining brightly.

When visitors enter the new building, they will first see the inaugural exhibition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art held in the newly relocated Yiribana Gallery. The exhibition is inspired by the concept of generosity and care, emphasizing connections between people. Additionally, the beloved old building has been renovated, highlighting its original architectural features while also being reimagined with a fresh new layout to welcome visitors.

Recently, local entry quarantine measures have been relaxed, and many people are planning to travel abroad. If you are planning to visit Australia, consider including a visit to the New South Wales Art Museum in your itinerary!

Image source and learn more: Art Gallery of New South Wales