Art Galleries of The Illawarra
A List of Fabulous Galleries In The Illawarra Showcasing Local, Australian + International Artists
Immerse yourself in the unique art and culture of the Illawarra by exploring our local galleries.
Spend a day taking in all the creative talent our part of the world has to offer.
[even better on those rainy days- where the only thing you’ll be soaking in is culture]
We’re such lucky ducks because we’ve got a bunch of fantastic galleries, studios, and spots that showcase the art of both local and non-local talents.
Ready to get your inspiration on? Here’s a list to kickstart your artsy adventure!
The stunning Scarborough Hotel is home to the fab Matthew Gillett Gallery.
Matthew is the gallery curator and after spending years travelling the world he’s made his way back to the South Coast, driven by his own love for art. He has carved out a spot to showcase the incredible creations of artists from all around the region. The gallery keeps the excitement alive with fresh exhibitions every 8 weeks – there’s always something new to see.
The hotel itself is already a fantastic destination, but with the added gallery, it’s like having the ultimate excuse to visit the pub!
Previously located in Thirroul, this one-of-a-kind gallery has made its new home in the CBD of Wollongong. These guys are all about bucking the idea that only the big cities have the good art and they are totally proving themselves at every turn.
The exhibitions are regularly changing and their opening nights are not to be missed.
They also provide custom and conservation framing, gallery and art consultation, restoration, art delivery and courier services, as well as art installation and hanging services and products.
This gallery was the vision of three UOW students and has been running since 1995. It is a not-for-profit, artist-run initiative all managed by volunteers. They love showcasing our amazing Illawarra artistic talent with some super eclectic exhibitions happening throughout the year.
They are always keen for new members and memberships come with loads of great perks.
They also hold regular events, and workshops for everyone so keep an eye out for what’s coming up.
This top-notch local art gallery is always busy with awesome exhibitions, learning programs, and fun events. They also take care of a collection of modern, Aboriginal, Asian, and colonial artworks that they exhibit regularly. We love this gallery and all the value it brings to our local community.
The gallery lives in a special and one-of-a-kind building, which was created in the 1950s and is a local landmark for us Illawarra-ians.
Port Kembla is known for its arty vibe and Red Point Arts is defo part of the reason for this.
It’s an arts co-op run by members, where artists, crafters, and students of all kinds gather to hang out, swap ideas, and showcase their creative work.
They have regular exhibitions, classes, markets and the super fun Arts & Crafts on the Grass- held on the 2nd Saturday of every month, here you’ll find artisan market stalls, open studios, free exhibitions in the galleries and live music.
[HOT TIP: Little Thai at Port, a tasty Thai restaurant is in the same centre and offers some mighty fine lunch specials. Art & Eats – Yes Please!]
The Shellharbour City Arts Society began in 2012 when a small group of folks saw the community’s hunger for art. They wanted a space to support, foster, and acknowledge both seasoned and new artists.
They offer frequent exhibitions in locations in or around Shellharbour as well as friendly get-togethers, and meetings. Every now and then, they will roll out workshops for people of all ages and skill levels too. How good?!
This gallery specialises in Aussie and European paintings and prints and is a great place to stop not only to admire good work but also find something special to take home.
The owner of the gallery, Andrea Hope, really wants to share the rich history of art with gallery visitors and offers framing and reframing services. Located in Kiama Downs, only 5 mins from downtown Kiama, this is definitely worth a visit.
As if our lovely little town of Gerringong isn’t gorgeous enough, Fern Street Gallery is here to add some more beauty to the mix. It is an award-winning modern-style gallery where select South Coast artists can permanently display their work alongside frequent exhibitions from other national artists.
Explore the gallery and take your time to breathe it all in and maybe even take a little bit of beauty home with you.
Phew, feeling inspired yet?! We’re just tickled pink with all the great art to explore here around us. Check out our directory for even more arty goodness!
There’s a whole lot of creative talent in the Illawarra, that’s for sure.
