Perth is more than just a beach and nature destination. While the city’s coastline and outdoor attractions get all the attention, Perth’s arts scene is thriving and attracting international artists and a cultural experience like no other in Australia. With multiple museums, galleries and public art, Perth is a hotbed of creativity, artistic expression and cultural activity. You’ll find everything from world class Aboriginal art to contemporary installations. In this guide we’ll look at the big institutions and the hidden gems that make the Perth art scene so cool.
Perth’s Top Museums and Galleries
Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA)
The crown jewel of Perth’s art scene, the Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA) is located in the Perth Cultural Centre, between the WA Museum Boola Bardip and Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts. The gallery has an impressive collection of Australian artists and international works. It has one of the largest collections of Aboriginal art in the country and an immersive cultural experience that tells the story of Western Australia’s history and culture.
AGWA’s permanent collection is huge and covers many periods and styles. From Brett Whiteley to Italian masters, there’s always something to see and be seen. The gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions so even if you’ve been to the permanent collection before there’s always something new to see.
AGWA also has interactive displays and hands on activities so it’s perfect for families and art lovers. Whether you’re exploring the rich Indigenous art or admiring bold shapes in contemporary installations, AGWA is a must see for anyone in Perth City.
Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts (PICA)
For those who love the cutting edge and the experimental the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts (PICA) is a must see. Located on William Street PICA presents contemporary art that challenges the norms of traditional art. PICA is known for showing works that explore social justice, technology and environmental change often featuring digital media, performance art and 3D shapes.
PICA’s exhibition space is always changing with regular community activations and collaborations with artists from around the world. Their large scale projects are some of the most talked about in the Perth art scene. Many of the works at PICA are about artistic vision and encourage the viewer to think deeply about the world through a creative lens.
Western Australian Museum Boola Bardip
The newly revamped Western Australian Museum Boola Bardip is not just a history centre but a space that celebrates Western Australian culture. Located near Roe Street in Cathedral Square, this museum tells Perth’s many stories through its vast collections and interactive exhibitions. The museum’s exhibitions cover natural history to Aboriginal culture and with a focus on hands on activities it’s a great destination for families.
Boola Bardip gives visitors a glimpse into the state’s past and future. Its cultural collections look at the state’s maritime history, the Swan River and Aboriginal culture presented with deep respect for the traditional owners of the land. The museum also hosts special exhibitions on international and Australian artists and provides a platform for cross cultural conversation.
Whether you’re looking at Aboriginal art, maritime history or interactive exhibitions the WA Museum Boola Bardip has something for everyone making it one of Perth’s most important cultural institutions.
Fremantle Arts Centre
Located in a grand heritage building the Fremantle Arts Centre (FAC) is one of Fremantle’s most famous art galleries. Next to the Fremantle Prison another historic site the arts centre shows a mix of contemporary and traditional exhibitions. FAC is not just about looking at art but being part of it. Visitors can attend live music concerts, art workshops and community events that turn the gallery into a cultural hub.
FAC’s outdoor concert series is one of its highlights and takes place in the courtyard surrounded by beautiful glass windows and amazing art. The centre’s support of local and emerging artists makes it an important part of the Perth cultural landscape.
Fremantle itself has numerous street art installations and murals. Walk down King Street or Aberdeen St and you’ll find amazing murals that add to the area’s cultural experience. Art in Fremantle isn’t just in galleries it’s everywhere and the streets become an open air canvas for artists.
Aboriginal Art Galleries
Perth has a strong connection to Aboriginal culture and the city has several Aboriginal art galleries. These galleries including Japingka Aboriginal Art Gallery showcase traditional and contemporary Aboriginal art. Visitors can see works that reflect the deep connection between the land and the people often in bold shapes and murals.
The works on show give visitors a glimpse into the stories of the traditional owners of Western Australia and many are for sale. Perth has one of the biggest collections of Indigenous art in Australia.
Annual Art Festivals and Events
Sculpture by the Sea
Every year Cottesloe Beach becomes an outdoor gallery during the Sculpture by the Sea festival. This world famous event invites international and Australian artists to create work along the beach, combining the natural beauty of the beach with contemporary art.
Walk among the sculptures which often include 3D and bold shapes, where art meets nature. With the Swan River as a backdrop, this is one of Perth’s most unusual cultural experiences, attracting art lovers from all over the world.
Perth Festival
The Perth Festival is a celebration of all art forms, from theatre and dance to visual art and music. One of Australia’s oldest arts festivals, the event brings together international artists and West Australian performers to create a buzz. Venues like the Perth Concert Hall, State Theatre Centre of WA and Kings Park host events that bring the city to life during festival time.
The festival also highlights Aboriginal culture and Western Australian culture, with many events focused on Indigenous art and storytelling.
Emerging Aboriginal Artists
Held annually, the Revealed exhibition is a platform for emerging Aboriginal artists from across Western Australia to show their work to local and international audiences. Buy beautiful Aboriginal art and support Indigenous communities.
Street Art and Public Installations
Northbridge Street Art
Perth’s street art scene is booming and Northbridge is the hub. William Street and Roe Street have some of the city’s best murals and bold shapes created by local and international artists. Many of these murals are part of the city’s community activation projects to turn public spaces into art galleries.
Some of the highlights include the Wolf Mural and the stunning mural by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, whose work is full of colour and pattern. Street art Perth Tours are available to go deeper into the stories behind the murals and the artists who created them.
Theatre and Performing Arts
State Theatre Centre of Western Australia
Perth’s performing arts scene is just as vibrant as its visual art scene, with venues like the State Theatre Centre of Western Australia hosting events all year round. From classical theatre to contemporary plays and musicals, the theatre has something for everyone. The Perth Festival often has events at the State Theatre Centre, adding to the city’s performing arts landscape.
Conclusion
Perth has so many museums, galleries and public installations that cover all forms of art. From the historical at WA Museum Boola Bardip to the contemporary at Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts, the city is an art playground waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re street art walking or visiting world class galleries, Perth has something for all art lovers. If that’s not enough, there’s always an option to book one of the Perth Day Tours and explore the enchanting places nearby.
FAQ
What are the best galleries in Perth?
Art Gallery of Western Australia and Fremantle Arts Centre are the top two, showing local and international artists.
Where is the street art in Perth?
Northbridge and Fremantle have the best murals and public art installations, with the Wolf Mural being a must see.
Are there any art festivals in Perth?
Yes, Perth Festival and Sculpture by the Sea are the two big ones where you can see amazing art.
Which museum should I visit to learn about WA history?
WA Museum Boola Bardip is where to go to learn about the region’s history, including maritime and Aboriginal culture.
Is there outdoor art in Perth?
Yes, Sculpture by the Sea at Cottesloe Beach and street art around Perth.
