Spend The Day At Warrnambool Art Gallery

Release Your Creative Inhabitions In Warrnambool, Victoria 

Where Is Warrnambool?

Warrnambool, Victoria, continues to develop a reputation for eclectic and quiet communities, drawn together with a love of the beach and culture. Quick to dismiss this being the average sleepy beach town, tourists continue to be entertained with several events throughout the year highlighting art, history, and so much more!

Warrnambool is a coastal city on the southwest coast in the formally designated area called Barwon's South West region of Victoria. Amidst the preserved beauty and stunning architecture is the Warrnambool Art Gallery. Step through the doors and let your eyes wander across a rich collection of local and international artists. 

One of the best things to do in Warrnambool is within this gallery's structure. With free admission and a passionate team driven to uphold standards of excellence, you won’t want to miss this unique cultural experience while in town!

Uncover The History Of The Warrnambool Art Gallery

Source photo from: thewag.com.au

The Warrnambool Art Gallery was founded in 1886 by retired police officer Joseph Archibald. He rented a small building directly behind the landmark Mechanics' Institute building and took a chance on the artistic community supporting his vision. At the start, Archibald showcased various artists, but it wasn't long until the gallery's reputation quickly grew. It wasn’t long before he applied for grants and found a larger space.

While there were challenging years and several locations from the original space to the current property, the gallery found a permanent home in 1986; a monumental year to commemorate the Gallery’s Centenary year. Reviewing the timeline of the gallery is fascinating, and the team managing the space today includes Art Gallery Director, Aaron Bradbrook and curator Serena Wong.

The Warrnambool Art Gallery is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm, closing two hours earlier on Saturday and Sunday.

With free admission and a constant rotation of new exhibitions ranging from all styles of media.

Warrnambool Art Gallery Modern Highlights With Cultural Appreciation

With more than 5,000 artworks ranging from European Salon and Colonial Paintings of the 1800s and Indigenous artifacts, to the Melbourne Modernists of the 1940s and an expanding catalogue of contemporary works, the Warrnambool Art Gallery continues to facilitate rich and memorable experiences. 

Collections We Love At The Warrnambool Art Gallery

Ngakee Wanga Toompa By Artist Brett Clarke

Source photo from: https://www.thewag.com.au/exhibition/ngakee-wanga-toompa

Ngakee Wanga Toompa is Brett Clarke’s expression of his spiritual connection to the country. Advocacy is a fundamental value in his work as he strives for the protection and preservation of the land, its inhabitants, and its waterways. By embracing a variety of creative and cultural practices, Clarke’s work often speaks to the importance of respecting the country and its power to inspire and heal. Audiences should expect an immersive experience that encourages deep listening and will open their eyes to the surrounding landscape.

Making Waves Hosted Through Different Events And Artists

Source photo from: https://www.thewag.com.au/exhibition/making-waves

An exhibition suitable for all ages, we have been running different events since November 2022. Upcoming highlights include an adult workshop hosted by Sinead Murphy on the methodology of collage. 

Ruminations: A Collection Highlighting Several Acquisitions

Source photo from: https://www.thewag.com.au/exhibition/ruminations

As per the team at Warrnambool Art Gallery, “Ruminations  explores the concepts of memory, place and time in the practices of leading artists, whose works have been recently acquired.” We expect to continue highlighting this collection until July 2023. 

Plan Your Trip To Warrnambool From Melbourne

Merri at Warrnambool Retreat glowing in the afternoon sun.

There are several options to travel comfortably from Warrnambool to Melbourne. Did you know starting 31 March, 2023 a new fare has passed making it the same cost to travel anywhere in Victoria. We encourage guests to take advantage and book their train tickets which will be the daily capped fare price of $9.20 or $4.60 for concession. 

  • Book the train and arrive in Warrnambool in three hours and thirty-four minutes. To take advantage of the above mentioned fare changes, guests will need a myki, V/Line paper ticket or bus paper ticket for the journey. Trains, on average run 3-4 times daily, and we encourage you to book in advance. 

  • Instead of the train, catching a bus is another great option with regular daily scheduling.

  • Or drive and park your car safely at Warrnambool Retreat, both properties provide off-street parking, as well as plenty of free on-street parking available.

Accommodation In Warrnambool That Brings Art To Life

Merri is full of curated pieces that are a delight for the senses.

Guests can cross the threshold of Warrnambool Retreat only minutes away from the art gallery. Both properties follow designs that highlight the art found within life. You’ll be pleasantly surprised with luxurious clean lines, art decor vibes, plus deep bathtubs and indoor fireplaces. Express your true creative yearnings and seize the moment. 

Choose from reserving the Henna or Merri properties depending on which mood you are after. The Merri property has one king, and two king singles plus opens up to a courtyard with moody festoon lights, ideal for late-night chats or hosting friends for a bottle of wine after a gallery tour. Henna contains one king and one queen bed, and a freestanding bath which is perfect to soak muscles and minds after overindulgence in creative expression. 

Book your next holiday with Warrnambool Retreat today!

Frequently Asked Questions About The Warrnambool Art Gallery

  • Entrance to the gallery is free but donations are always appreciated.

  • Learn more about the team facilitating the Warrnambool Art Gallery here.

  • No, photography or recording of any nature is not permitted.

  • Yes, the gallery has family-friendly events and organizes art showcases appropriate for all ages.

  • Yes, the building and exhibits are accessible to all body types and activity levels.

  • We recommend scheduling 2-3 hours out of your day to enjoy the Warrnambool Art Gallery at a pace that allows for reflection and appreciation.

  • There are many ways to support the Warrnambool Art Gallery. We accept donations in the form of cash and allow space for the donator to assign their financial investment to the development of the Collection and for specific acquisitions, programs, or capital works.

    If you are interested in becoming a Donor please contact the Gallery Director on (03) 5559 4890. For more information click here.

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