Australia's evolving relationships with the countries of Asia can only be enriched by an appreciation of the rich heritage of the art of the region. The Gallery's collections span South Asia, Southeast and East Asia. Its strengths are in the arts of China and Japan, but it is developing its holdings of Indian sculpture and painting as well as those of Thai, Vietnamese, Cambodian and Indonesian art. Significant Chinese holdings include a 210cm marble early Buddha of the Sui dynasty (581-618), ceramic figures and architectural models of the tomb furniture from the Han and Tang dynasties, imperial porcelain and a collection of later Chinese paintings, starting with the Shanghai School of the 19th century. From Japan there are outstanding examples of traditional Japanese painting, comprising hanging scrolls, screens and smaller formats. Paintings range from the 14th century classical Buddhist Taima Mandala to splendid portraits of the courtesans of the "floating world" (ukiyo) to modern works. The Asian department has had a number of important benefactors who have been instrumental in forming the collection, including Kenneth and Yasuko Myer (Japan), Edward and Goldie Sternberg (China), J. Hepburn Myrtle and Graham E. Fraser. The Southeast Asian collections have expanded through the generosity of specific donors such as the late Freddy Storch (Thai) and the late Alex Biancardi who bequeathed important Indian sculptures and Indonesian textiles. The Gallery's collections are constantly being strengthened through purchases, gifts and bequests from committed benefactors. To complement the acquisitions program in 1996, the Gallery has established the Centre for Asian Art Studies, under the patronage of the now late Goldie Sternberg. The initiative provides an invaluable resource for those wishing to pursue studies in the arts of Asia through symposia, workshops and an annual series of lunchtime lectures by leading Asian art specialists. In 2001 the Centre was absorbed into VisAsia, which has extended the Centre's activities as well as supporting Asian art exhibitions. For more information contact:
The Head Curator of Asian Art (02) 9225 1774, or
The Benefaction Manager (02) 9225 1818
Download the Foundation Application Form (PDF, 60 KB) (The Art Gallery of New South Wales Foundation is the Gallery’s major acquisition fund and umbrella organisation for all Gallery benefactor groups.) | 
