Newcastle Art Gallery is a vast institution holding more than 6,200 pieces, with a diverse focus on Australian art from colonial times to now. It consists primarily of rotating exhibits that make their way across the nation’s museums, to be viewed annually by hundreds of thousands of art enthusiasts. Enjoy the great range of works of art spread across the museum’s six main exhibition halls.

Admire some of the works by noteworthy artists, such as Judy Cassab, John Coburn and Margaret Olley. Enter the ceramics area to see pieces by Australian and Japanese craftspeople. Other sections include sculpture, photography and painting. Inspect some of the modern examples in the Video and New Media area. The gallery also has a Smart Space sector, which is dedicated to interpretive exhibits.

Wander through the Sculpture Garden and enjoy the serene ambiance. Gaze up at the impressive Hearabout abstract metalwork, which is 8 feet (2.4 meters) high. Browse the gallery shop for intriguing gifts, such as ceramics, textiles and jewelry. The store has a range of books and postcards relating to artistic themes. Relax at one of the cafés and visit the boutiques in the commercial area surrounding the gallery.

The site was set up in 1957, 12 years after a surgeon from Sydney donated his collection. Note that it opens Tuesday through Sunday from morning until late afternoon. It remains open late on the last Friday of the month, except for December. Entrance to the museum is free, although certain exhibitions may charge a fee.

Newcastle Art Gallery is in the busy Civic precinct in the center of the city. It is just south of Newcastle Civic Park and is served by several bus stops. Leave your car in the street parking spaces for free for up to 2 hours. Make sure to see other attractions here, including the Civic Theatre, Newcastle Museum and Newcastle City Hall.