Top 11 Regional Art Collections to Visit in Western Australia
Prepare to embark on a fascinating journey throughout the state, exploring our top picks of must-visit regional art collections in Western Australia. From intimate, private collections to expansive regional galleries, these exhibits promise a unique experience as you discover the works of renowned Australian artists and emerging talents you can’t see anywhere else. Make sure you jot down these fantastic collections to include on your next road trip adventure!
Australia's South West
Bunbury Regional Art Gallery
Beyond the region’s wineries and stunning beaches, the South West also boasts a thriving art scene. The region has a prodigious number of galleries, thanks in part to the contributions of Claude Hotchin, a notable art dealer in the 1950s to 70s. One such beneficiary was the Bunbury Regional Art Gallery (BRAG). As you explore the gallery's 1897 heritage-listed building, once a Sisters of Mercy Convent, you will be transported to another world as the gallery slowly transforms, illuminated by the afternoon sun filtering through stained glass windows.
Holmes à Court Gallery
Enjoy a glass of wine among phenomenal works of art at Vasse Felix winery near Margaret River. Part of the Janet Holmes à Court Collection, this world-renowned gallery consists of more than 4,000 registered artworks. Stroll through the former wine-making facility, now converted to a spacious gallery space, and step out onto Vasse Felix grounds to view the stunning sculptural walk with pieces by both acclaimed Australian and international artists.
Collie Art Gallery
A beacon of perseverance, the contemporary-designed Collie Art Gallery is the result of more than forty years of community dedication. Beyond a range of permanent works, including 36 paintings donated by Hotchin, Collie also hosts a range of temporary exhibitions. Sit in on one of the gallery’s many programs where you can learn more about traditional artistic techniques, from abstract painting to printmaking, or bring the kids along for a drawing class taught by professional artists!
Australia's Coral Coast
Geraldton Regional Art Gallery
The Geraldton Regional Art Gallery (GRAG), housed in the historic Geraldton Town Hall, hosts a diverse array of impressive exhibitions by local and nationally touring artists each year. This artistic hub also provides a dynamic space for regular workshops, talks, and film nights, as well as the perfect place to pick up some locally made souvenirs at the Gallery Shop. Don’t miss out on the hotly contested Mid-West Art Prize hosted each December and January, offering an incredible chance to explore works by the region’s most talented artists all in one place!
Carnamah Bank Gallery & The Exchange
Formed by a group of passionate, ‘go-getter’ locals, this neighbourhood arts centre has become the very heart of the Carnamah community. Founded with the aim of connecting regional communities, Carnamah's Bank Gallery & The Exchange offers a unique blend of local and international artworks, as well as a stage to host a variety of live performances. Sink into one of the comfortable beanbag chairs and absorb the essence of this vibrant space where creations come to life.
Australia's Golden Outback
Beverley Station Arts Gallery
Just an hour and a half outside of Perth, the picturesque Station Arts Gallery can be found inside of an old railway station in the heart of Beverley. Home to several prolific artists-in-residence, and featuring works from celebrated artists such as Harald Vike, the centre’s frequent plein air and painting workshops always draw a crowd. Just next door, the Platform Theatre showcases the best of live music, comedy shows and dramatic performances from late September through to April- perfect for a big night away from the city.
Laverton Outback Gallery
Explore artworks from a number of talented Indigenous artists at this treasure trove in the Goldfields. The Laverton Outback Gallery, rooted in the Ngaanyatjarra Lands, brings to life the vivid colours and stories of desert life. Items from paintings to carvings, weavings and crafts are showcased, each made using traditional methods passed down through generations. Don't miss the chance to take home a piece of the outback by purchasing one of the gallery’s unique pieces!
Narrogin Exhibition Space
Housed in a heritage-listed building, Narrogin Exhibition Space (NEXIS) is a cultural hub in the Town Hall complex. The space exhibits a range of exhibits throughout the year, as well as items from the Sir Claude Hotchin bequest, the Carol & Peter Taylor Collection, the Shire of Narrogin Art Acquisition, and the Shire of Narrogin Public Art Collection. The innovative and unconventional events hosted by Arts Narrogin make the centre a dynamic gathering space for art enthusiasts of all ages.
Australia’s North West
Martumili Artists
Located in the East Pilbara near Newman, the Martumili Artists are newcomers to the scene but have quickly grown into one of the largest art centres in Australia. With more than 500 artists from six desert communities across the Great Sandy, Sandy and Gibson Deserts, the large shed-like structure also includes studios, workspaces, a library, offices, archives, and the Martumili gallery and shop. From woven baskets to collaborative canvases, the centre's unbridled use of colour and innovative mediums are helping to propel the contemporary Aboriginal art movement onto the world stage.
Warlayirti Artists Art and Culture Centre
This is one of the most isolated art galleries in the world! To reach the Warlayirti Artists at Balgo you will first need to take on the 350-kilometre journey along the sandy Tanami Track in the East Kimberley. This amazing gallery is well worth the visit, and the friendly Wirrimanu community will make you feel at home while proudly sharing their artwork with you. Participating in diverse stories from eight language groups, the artists communicate their history through vibrant paintings, carvings, and other artistic expressions. An explosion of colour brings their art to life, celebrating the artists' deep connection to their desert homeland and tjukurrpa- the lifeblood of their culture and Country.
Waringarri Aboriginal Arts
Situated in the heart of Miriwoong country just outside Kununurra, Waringarri Aboriginal Arts stands as a guardian of culture, passing it on through dance, story, and painting. With artists from the east Kimberley and across the Northern Territory border, the centre provides a platform for Indigenous artists to engage with their wider communities and visiting groups. Beyond painting, Waringarri fosters cultural exchange through daily art and cultural tours, joonba performances, and the impressive Dawang Gallery collection, a testament to nearly four decades of artistic and cultural activity.
If you want to learn more about the cultural experiences in the Kimberley and Pilbara regions check out our article 10 Aboriginal cultural experiences in the Kimberley and Pilbara or head to the WAnderland itinerary builder to start planning your adventure today!
Feature image credit: "Nyoongarah Wirdanginy" by Tjyllyungoo - Lance Chadd https://visitwanderland.com.au/explore/south-west/bunbury-regional-art-gallery/nyoongarah-wirdanginy-tjyllyungoo-lance-chadd
