Brisbane, the vibrant capital of Queensland, is a city that celebrates creativity, diversity, and culture. Over the past few years, Brisbane has firmly established itself as a hub for art and culture in Australia. From contemporary art galleries and street art to world-class performance spaces and local cultural festivals, Brisbane offers an exciting and diverse range of artistic experiences. Whether you’re an art aficionado or someone simply curious to explore the city’s creative side, this guide will walk you through some of the best places to soak in Brisbane’s thriving art and culture scene.
1. Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA)
No visit to Brisbane’s art scene is complete without a trip to the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art, collectively known as QAGOMA. Located in the cultural precinct of South Bank, these two galleries offer a stunning collection of both historical and contemporary art.
Queensland Art Gallery (QAG)
The Queensland Art Gallery showcases an extensive collection of Australian and international art, with a particular focus on Indigenous Australian art. From traditional Indigenous artworks to more contemporary pieces, the gallery offers a comprehensive look at the artistic evolution of Australia. It also regularly hosts major exhibitions, featuring works from prominent artists around the world.
Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)
Just next door, the Gallery of Modern Art offers a cutting-edge collection of contemporary art. GOMA features rotating exhibitions of both local and international artists, with a focus on experimental and multimedia works. It is known for its bold, innovative exhibitions that push the boundaries of traditional art forms. One highlight is the Children’s Art Centre, an interactive space designed to introduce young visitors to the world of art through hands-on activities.
Both galleries are connected by the scenic Queensland Art Gallery (QAG) Bridge, which spans the river and provides an excellent view of the surrounding parkland. With free entry to most permanent exhibitions and regular blockbuster shows, QAGOMA is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the visual arts.
2. Street Art in Brisbane: A Creative Outdoor Gallery
Brisbane’s street art scene is alive with creativity, offering an impressive array of murals, graffiti, and installations throughout the city. The city’s laneways, walls, and public spaces are transformed into ever-changing canvases, making Brisbane a vibrant outdoor art gallery.
The Brisbane Street Art Trail
One of the best ways to experience the city’s street art is by following the Brisbane Street Art Trail, a self-guided walking tour that takes you through the city’s most iconic street art locations. Starting in Fortitude Valley, this trail will lead you through laneways and alleys adorned with massive murals by local and international artists. Some standout spots include the walls of Fish Lane in South Brisbane, the vibrant alleyways around the Valley, and the iconic “Brisbane” mural by artist Guido van Helten at the city’s own former gasworks.
Brisbane also hosts various street art festivals, such as the annual Brisbane Street Art Festival (BSAF), which brings together renowned street artists from around the globe to create new artworks across the city. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a casual observer, the street art in Brisbane is a dynamic and constantly evolving part of the city’s cultural landscape.
3. The Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC)
For those who enjoy performance art, Brisbane’s Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) is the heart of the city’s performing arts scene. Located in South Bank, QPAC is one of Australia’s leading venues for theatre, opera, ballet, and live music.
What’s On at QPAC?
QPAC hosts a wide range of performances, from world-class international acts to local productions. Whether you’re attending a show by the Queensland Ballet, a symphony concert by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, or a thrilling musical, there’s always something exciting happening at QPAC. The venue also hosts traveling Broadway shows and has a variety of smaller performance spaces, such as the Playhouse Theatre and the Cremorne Theatre, where intimate productions take place.
One of the highlights of QPAC is the Lyric Theatre, Brisbane’s largest performing arts space, where you can catch major touring productions like “The Lion King” or “Les Misérables.” For those who prefer cutting-edge contemporary performances, the Concert Hall is a great venue for orchestral performances and contemporary music events.
4. Brisbane’s Festivals: Celebrating Culture and Creativity
Brisbane’s calendar is filled with a diverse range of cultural festivals that celebrate art, music, food, and heritage. These festivals are an excellent way to experience the city’s artistic flair and vibrant multicultural scene.
Brisbane Festival
The Brisbane Festival, held every September, is one of the city’s largest and most celebrated events. It showcases a dynamic mix of visual art, music, dance, theatre, and comedy, with performances and installations scattered across the city. The festival culminates in the spectacular Riverfire fireworks display, an iconic event that lights up the Brisbane skyline.
MELT Festival
The MELT Festival, held annually in Brisbane, is a celebration of LGBTQIA+ arts and culture. It includes a range of performances, art exhibitions, film screenings, and parties, providing a platform for queer artists to showcase their work. MELT is a joyful and inclusive celebration of the city’s diversity.
G20 Cultural Festival
While not an annual event, the G20 Cultural Festival is another significant cultural event that was part of the global G20 summit held in Brisbane. It featured international artists and performances from all around the world, showcasing Brisbane’s role as a global cultural hub. Events like these highlight Brisbane’s growing recognition on the world stage for art and culture.
5. The Brisbane Powerhouse – A Hub for Contemporary Arts
Located on the banks of the Brisbane River in New Farm, the Brisbane Powerhouse is a former power station turned creative space. Today, it serves as one of the city’s most important venues for contemporary performance art. The Brisbane Powerhouse hosts a wide range of shows, from comedy and theatre to contemporary dance and music.
What to Expect at Brisbane Powerhouse
The Powerhouse has a distinct industrial charm, and visitors can enjoy performances in intimate venues that foster creativity and artistic exploration. With a commitment to showcasing local artists and nurturing emerging talent, the Powerhouse is a great place to discover new, experimental performances. Many of the events at the Brisbane Powerhouse are part of the Brisbane Festival, but the venue also hosts year-round performances, art installations, and live music events.
In addition to performances, the Powerhouse offers a range of creative workshops, events, and an onsite bar and restaurant, making it a great place to enjoy a night out with a unique cultural experience.
6. Brisbane’s Museum and Cultural Precinct
Brisbane’s Museum and Cultural Precinct, located in South Bank, is home to some of the city’s most significant cultural institutions. Here you’ll find the Queensland Museum, Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), and the State Library of Queensland. This area is the cultural heart of Brisbane, offering a rich mix of art exhibitions, scientific displays, educational programs, and performances.
Queensland Museum and Sciencentre
The Queensland Museum showcases an impressive collection of natural history, including exhibits on dinosaurs, native wildlife, and Indigenous culture. The Sciencentre is a hands-on space for families, with interactive exhibits that make science both fun and educational.
State Library of Queensland
The State Library of Queensland is more than just a library—it’s a vibrant cultural space with a variety of events, exhibitions, and art installations. The library is also home to the Queensland Memory Collection, which houses the state’s significant historical records, art, and artifacts.
7. Aboriginal Art and Culture
Aboriginal culture is a key part of Brisbane’s artistic identity. The city offers a range of opportunities to learn about and engage with the rich history and traditions of Australia’s First Nations people. The Queensland Museum has a significant collection of Aboriginal art and artifacts, while the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) frequently features Indigenous exhibitions. Additionally, there are several cultural centers across the city, such as the Brisbane Aboriginal Sovereign Embassy, where visitors can connect with and learn from local Indigenous communities.
Conclusion: Embracing Brisbane’s Artistic Energy
Brisbane’s art and culture scene is a dynamic and ever-evolving tapestry that reflects the city’s rich heritage, creativity, and diversity. Whether you’re visiting world-class galleries like QAGOMA, enjoying the vibrant street art of Fortitude Valley, catching a live performance at QPAC, or immersing yourself in one of the city’s many cultural festivals, there’s no shortage of ways to experience Brisbane’s artistic energy.
For those seeking to explore the cultural side of Queensland’s capital, Brisbane offers something for every taste, from contemporary visual arts to Indigenous cultural experiences and avant-garde performances. So, whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, make sure to take the time to explore and enjoy Brisbane’s growing arts scene—it’s a city that’s definitely worth discovering.
