Some of the Best Artistic Places and Activities in Sydney
Sydney is truly an excellent destination no matter what it is you’re looking for: history, great food, bustling streets and a lively art scene. It seems like there is constantly something happening, and there is something to see on virtually every corner. It might even be overwhelming if your time is limited but you want to make the most of your stay. For this reason, we created this list of some of the best artistic places and activities you should consider incorporating into your itinerary if you want to get a taste of the art this place has to offer. So, if you are planning a visit to one of the best cities in the world, read on.
It all begins on the street
To get to know a place and its art and culture, you don’t have to dig deep: you can find the best representation right on the streets, at hand’s reach. You can see some of the most outstanding pieces of art for free, you just have to know where to look. From spectacular murals such as the Portrait of Jenny Munro in Haymarket and some of Fintan Magee’s works in Newtown, to interesting installations and sculptures such as the dandelion-shaped El Alamein Memorial Fountain in Elizabeth Bay, there is a lot to see, so pack some walking shoes!
Museums overflowing with culture
Of course, when you’re there, you simply must not miss out on Sydney’s world famous art museums and galleries you have surely already heard of. Your plan should include the Museum of Contemporary Art and the huge Art Gallery of NSW, both of which feature not only local artists, but also interesting pieces from all over the world. Besides their permanent exhibitions, there are also time-limited ones, so make sure you check out their sites in advance to decide what you want to see. Go on a guided tour to fully experience what’s behind all those outstanding artworks.
Snap a picture
Those who are interested in the art of taking photos can check out a wide variety of exhibitions at the Australian Centre for Photography, and if you get inspired to try your hand at this activity, you can even consider enrolling in photography courses where you have the chance to learn from professionals. A one-day workshop that covers the basics is perfect for beginners, and this newfound knowledge will certainly up your photo game in the future.
Get acquainted with Aboriginal art
When in Australia, one simply must take time to appreciate the very core of its existence, and what better way to do so than by getting to know authentic Aboriginal art? In Sydney, Aboriginal art galleries abound, so you can easily incorporate a couple of them into your plan. You can start with the oldest such gallery, Cooee Art, to get a taste of this culture. Then you can move onto the Karlangu Aboriginal Art Centre to learn more, and Aboriginal Contemporary which holds handpicked pieces from various remote communities – you can even get a unique piece of jewelry there if you feel like it.
Hidden gems of galleries
Besides the hugely famous museums, there are also smaller but all the more enticing places tucked away on every corner. Therefore, consider visiting some of the historic and independent galleries to experience a different side of the Sydney art scene. Some notable names include the privately owned Roslyn Oxley9 Gallery, the Artsite, the Brett Whiteley Studio, the Glass Artists’ Gallery, and the Artereal Gallery which features contemporary, stimulating artworks. There is truly something for everyone.
An unconventional approach
If you time your visit for the second half of October, you are in luck – you will get a chance to see the annual Sculpture by the Sea exhibition in Bondi. Not only is it an interesting sight to behold, it also happens to be the largest public sculpture exhibition in the whole world. Take the 2-km coastal walk and marvel at the no less than 100 unique structures that can inspire you to take some creative shots!
There’s no doubt Sydney is a piece of art itself, so your trip will be full of artistic adventures if you dare to explore this side of this city. Make sure you include some of the aforementioned spots in your itinerary and you will go home as a richer person. And once you’re done looking – take action and do something yourself! Take part in some of the many workshops and other arts and crafts activities the region offers and you might even learn a thing or two!