The Art Gallery of Ballarat is Australia's oldest regional gallery with a remarkably comprehensive collection of Australian art. Its busy exhibition schedule makes the Gallery an exciting and dynamic place which presents a range of exhibitions from cutting edge contemporary art to themed shows drawn from the Gallery's extensive collection and special interest blockbuster shows. It is a focus for Ballarat's lively arts scene, situated in the heart of Ballarat's Heritage and Arts central precinct, which boasts great cafes and restaurants, book and antique shops and commercial galleries. The Gallery draws from its magnificent collection of Australian paintings, sculpture, ceramics and works on paper to give visitors the opportunity to walk through the history of Australian art, with important representative works from colonial to contemporary periods displayed in spaces appropriate to their period. iPod tours are available. The heritage-listed Gallery building, one of the oldest purpose-built art galleries in the country, has evolved to accommodate the expanding collection and now includes a range of spaces from grand and elegant 19th century rooms to stunning contemporary additions. The shop stocks works by local artists and craftspeople as well as art books, souvenirs, gifts and toys. The Gallery is fully accessible for people with disabilities.Browse through Art Shop for an excellent range of art and jewellery by local artists and craftspeople as well as a great selection of souvenirs, gifts and toys or relax and sample the great coffee and home-made chocolates in the cafe, Sweet Decadence in the Gallery. Content: Art Gallery of Ballarat This is a free attraction. Located in the centre of Ballarat's historic arts and culture precinct, a short walk from the Ballarat Railway Station. Free guided tours from Wednesday to Sunday at 2pm. Contact for further details. Daily9:00am -5:00pmClosed: Christmas Day. Contact operator for further details.
