An Art Lover's Guide To Sydney In 24 Hours

Start the day by the sea in Bondi walking along the beachside promenade to admire the amazing street art of local and international artists. Every six months artists can apply to have their work featured here. If you’re lucky you might even catch one of the chosen artists hard at work on their patch of boardwalk.

Bondi Beach, Sydney

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Only a couple of blocks away from the beach you will find the Aquabumps Gallery, which is the home of beautiful beach photography, all taken by local photographer Eugene Tan. He has created a loyal fan base since starting a daily email of surf photos over a decade ago. His popularity has exploded since, and his gallery is a place where you can see and buy some of his best photos, which are a wonderful momento to take home.

Aquabumps Gallery, 151 Curlewis St, Bondi Beach, (02) 9130 7788

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Once you have finished your morning in Bondi, head towards Surry Hills and visit the The Brett Whiteley Studio. This converted warehouse was once the workplace and home of famous Australian artist Brett Whiteley. He bought the space in 1985 and transformed it into an exhibition space, studio and for a period it was also his home. It is now owned and operated by The Art Gallery of New South Wales (NSW), and gives you an intriguing glimpse into the life of one of Australia’s most celebrated artists.

Brett Whiteley Studio, 2 Raper St, Surry Hills (02) 9225 1881

This gallery opened its doors in 1871 and is one of the leading museums in the entire country. It boasts over forty collections every year including the highly acclaimed Archibald Prize. Year round collections include artists from around the globe as well as a great range of indigenous Australian art. If you happen to visiting on Wednesday you can stay back late thanks to closing times being extended to 10pm.

Art Gallery of NSW, Art Gallery Rd, Sydney, (02) 9225 1700

Ken Done is a celebrated Australian artist who has made a name for himself with his distinct painting style, using vibrant colours to depict classic Sydney landscapes like the Sydney Harbour and the Opera House. You can also pick up a signed print while you’re there.

The Ken Done Gallery, 1 Hickson Rd, The Rocks NSW 2000, (02) 8274 4599

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The Museum of Contemporary Art is located only a short walk from Ken Done’s Gallery right on the Sydney Harbour. The Museum is dedicated to showcasing the best contemporary art from Australia and around the world. Be sure to visit their gift shop too; you could spend hours perusing the books, prints and unique gifts.

MCA, 140 George St, The Rocks, (02) 9245 2400

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Once you have built up an appetite admiring art all day, stop by Nomad for dinner in Surry Hills. Not only does the restaurant have incredible food and wine, it also has amazing art. The featured piece in the restaurant is by a talented Australian artist, CJ Hendry, who creates photo-like drawings from using nothing other than a fine tip pen on paper. Standing a few metres away you won’t believe that the huge skull image is actually a drawing.

Nomad, 16 Foster St, Surry Hills, (02) 9280 3395

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