We acknowledge the Gadigal of the Eora Nation, the traditional custodians of the Country on which the Art Gallery of New South Wales stands.

Opening celebrations

Crowds at dusk in front of a covered stage with tall city buildings behind

One of the highlights of the opening celebrations is a free concert in the Domain

Nine days of free art, music, performances and talks to celebrate the opening of our new building

Opening weekend Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 December 2022
Opening celebrations 3–11 December 2022
Extended hours during opening celebrations 10am – 10pm

Join us for a free program of exciting events and cultural experiences as we celebrate the opening of Sydney’s newest landmark – the Art Gallery of New South Wales’ stunning new building, designed by award-winning architects SANAA.  

A huge range of performances, talks, tours and workshops is set to bring many forms of art to life. Highlights include a concert in the Domain headlined by Grammy-nominated international pop star Ellie Goulding, supported by Australian artists Meg Mac and Electric Fields; a nightly drone show over Woolloomooloo Bay created by Kamilaroi artist Reko Rennie; and a series of conversations with artists, creatives and thought leaders held at the Art Gallery.

Some parts of the Art Gallery have different opening hours.

During the opening celebrations, our library and archive (including the children’s art library) will be open from 10am to 4pm daily, and until 6.30pm Wednesday.

On Tuesday 6 December, the South Building will close at 5pm. The new North Building will remain open until 10pm.

About the Sydney Modern Project

The Art Gallery’s new building is designed by SANAA with Architectus as executive architect. It was delivered by Infrastructure NSW with Richard Crookes Constructions as builder.

Strategic partner