'Margaret Olley: A Generous Life' free at GOMA until 13 October 2019
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Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) Brisbane

4.6
·9k reviews·South Brisbane, Australia

Brisbane's premier destination for contemporary art from Australia, Asia & the Pacific, housed in stunning modern architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Friday evenings

Live music & art events

CrowdMedium
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'Margaret Olley: A Generous Life' free at GOMA until 13 October 2019

Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) Brisbane

Best Time

Friday evenings

Live music & art events

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Brisbane's premier destination for contemporary art from Australia, Asia & the Pacific, housed in stunning modern architecture.

4.6
(9k reviews)

"Truly wonderful, mesmerizing, educative, and cultured – a great way to see another side of Brisbane."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Special Exhibitions

Popular ticketed shows like 'Fairy Tales' can sell out. Book online in advance to guarantee entry and avoid queues.

🚶‍♀️ Explore Sister Gallery

Don't miss the Queensland Art Gallery next door! They are sister buildings and easy to visit together.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fairy Tales Exhibition

Fairy Tales Exhibition

Queensland Gallery of Modern Art

Explore how contemporary artists reimagine classic fairy tales through art, design, and film. A magical experience for all ages.

TikTok
Iris van Herpen Fashion

Iris van Herpen Fashion

Queensland Gallery of Modern Art

Witness the breathtaking, avant-garde haute couture of Iris van Herpen, showcasing incredible craftsmanship and innovation.

Instagram+2
Asian Pacific Triennial

Asian Pacific Triennial

Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art

Experience cutting-edge contemporary art from across the Asia Pacific region, featuring diverse mediums and thought-provoking installations.

Reddit
Indigenous Australian Art

Indigenous Australian Art

Queensland Gallery of Modern Art

Discover powerful works by Indigenous Australian artists, often exploring Dreamtime stories and cultural heritage through vibrant visuals.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Check Special Exhibitions

GOMA hosts major ticketed exhibitions like 'Fairy Tales' and 'Iris van Herpen'. Book in advance, especially for popular shows, to avoid disappointment and secure your preferred time slot. TikTokInstagram

Free General Admission

While special exhibitions have a fee, the permanent collections at GOMA are free to explore. Plan your visit to include both to maximize your experience without extra cost. Reddit

Best Times

When
Friday evenings
Why
Live music & art events
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low
When
During special exhibitions
Why
Unique, must-see displays
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

GOMA LAUNCHES ‘FAIRY TALES’ 🗓️ 2 Dec 2023 – 28 Apr 2024 📍 Queensland Gallery of Modern Art #Brisbane #Queensland #Art
@brisbane
5.5K likes • 111.5K views

🎟️ Book Special Exhibitions

Popular ticketed shows like 'Fairy Tales' can sell out. Book online in advance to guarantee entry and avoid queues. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Sister Gallery

Don't miss the Queensland Art Gallery next door! They are sister buildings and easy to visit together. Reddit

Not going to lie, my brain instantly thought Blink182 when I saw the painting ‘Lightning 1998’ by Kumantje Jagamara but it turns out Jagamara used vibrant magenta lines to signify bolts of lightning, a natural phenomenon that is associated with one of the many Dreamtime stories! 📸 Canon 250D #qgoma #queenslandgalleryofmodernart #galleryofmodernart #modernart #art #artwork #artist #artgallery #artc...
davesphotos2025
61 likes • 0 views
Iris 💖 #goma #irisvanherpen #fashion #qagoma #brisbane @bridget_conroyy
genatkinson
54 likes • 0 views

📱 Download the App

Check the QAGOMA website for their app, which often provides maps and exhibition guides for a better experience. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing. Comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying the extensive collections. Reddit

#brisbane #artgallery #irisvanherpen Посетила выставку #irisvanherpen … 2 часа в галерее прошли как 5 мин, сказать что успела все просмотреть нет …хочу вернуться! Это восторг … 🤩 И самое главное меня еще больше вдохновило на тему следующего женского ретрита! Я теперь точно знаю куда смотреть и что делать … нас наделили органами чувств не для того чтоб их просто базово носить в теле . Это такой ...
dudzichyuliya
29 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Special Exhibitions

Popular ticketed shows like 'Fairy Tales' can sell out. Book online in advance to guarantee entry and avoid queues. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Sister Gallery

Don't miss the Queensland Art Gallery next door! They are sister buildings and easy to visit together. Reddit

📱 Download the App

Check the QAGOMA website for their app, which often provides maps and exhibition guides for a better experience. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing. Comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying the extensive collections. Reddit

⏰ Check Opening Hours

GOMA is generally closed only on Good Friday, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day. Always confirm hours online before your visit. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(9k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise GOMA for its diverse and engaging contemporary art collections, spanning Australian, Asian, and Pacific artists. The architecture and riverside location are also frequently highlighted as positives, offering a beautiful setting for art appreciation. While general admission is free, some find special exhibition tickets pricey, and a few mention a desire for more readily available maps.

"We visited during the Asian Pacific Triennial showcase 2025. It was good! There were a lot of videos and sculptures and some 2D. The informational desk was very helpful in pointing out they have two sister buildings. I especially loved their standard showcase they have at all times.
I do with the would have offered a map either manual or trifold. But over all lovely building, architecture, and art."

Mackenna Burke

"Varieties of artists from all around the world.

Not just painting but installations, moving art, cinematography, sculpture,

Its truly wonderful, mesmerizing, educative, and cultured.

A great way to see another side of Brisbane.

Overall a truly amazing experience"

Handoko Limaho

"Near the river bank, beautiful view and cozy place. There are plenty of artist's works to perform. Suggest to visit if you are in Brisbane sometimes."

Vũ Nguyên Hùng

What People Like

Diverse contemporary art
Stunning architecture
Riverside location

What People Dislike

Special exhibition ticket cost
Lack of manual maps

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

GOMA is conveniently located in South Brisbane, easily accessible by public transport. You can take a bus to the Cultural Centre bus station or a train to South Brisbane station. It's also a pleasant walk across the Kurilpa Bridge from the CBD. Reddit

Yes, there are several parking options near GOMA, including the Cultural Centre car park and various street parking. However, parking can be expensive, and public transport is often recommended. Reddit

Absolutely! The Kurilpa Bridge offers a scenic pedestrian and cycle path connecting the Brisbane CBD directly to GOMA and the Cultural Precinct. It's a lovely walk with great city views. Reddit

Yes, GOMA is very well-served by public transport. The nearest train station is South Brisbane, and numerous bus routes stop at the Cultural Centre bus station, which is right next door. Reddit

From Brisbane Airport, you can take the Airtrain to the city and then transfer to a bus or train to South Brisbane. Alternatively, a taxi or rideshare service is a direct option. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission to the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) is free. However, special ticketed exhibitions, like 'Fairy Tales' or 'Iris van Herpen', require a separate purchase. Reddit

Ticket prices for special exhibitions vary. It's best to check the official QAGOMA website for current pricing and to book your tickets in advance, especially for popular shows. TikTokInstagram

GOMA is typically open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with extended hours until 8 pm on Fridays. It is usually only closed on Good Friday, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day. Always verify on their website. Reddit

No, you do not need to book tickets for the free general admission areas of GOMA. You can simply walk in and explore the permanent collections. Reddit

GOMA is generally closed on Good Friday, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day. For other public holidays, it's advisable to check the QAGOMA website for specific opening hours. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Highlights include the 'Fairy Tales' exhibition, the stunning 'Iris van Herpen' fashion showcase, and the diverse contemporary art from the Asia Pacific region. Don't miss the permanent collections featuring Indigenous Australian art. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

Yes, GOMA often has family-friendly activities and exhibitions. The 'Wonderstruck' exhibit was noted as being great for kids with minimal queues for activities like face painting. Reddit

QAGOMA often offers guided tours for its permanent collections and special exhibitions. Check their website or inquire at the information desk upon arrival for schedules and availability. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted in most areas of GOMA for personal use, but flash photography and tripods are usually not allowed. Some special exhibitions may have restrictions, so always look for signage. Instagram

GOMA offers various facilities including restrooms, cloakrooms, cafes, and a gift shop. They also have accessible facilities for visitors with disabilities. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, GOMA has a cafe and restaurant on-site, offering a place to relax and refuel. You can enjoy meals or coffee with views of the river or the surrounding cultural precinct. Reddit

The dining options at GOMA typically offer contemporary Australian cuisine, often with an Asian-Pacific influence, reflecting the gallery's collection. They usually have options for breakfast, lunch, and light snacks. Reddit

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the galleries to protect the artworks. There are designated areas where you can consume your own refreshments. Reddit

Yes, GOMA often has a bar area, particularly popular on Friday evenings when they host events. It's a great spot to enjoy a drink after exploring the art. Reddit

South Bank, adjacent to GOMA, offers a wide range of dining options from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, providing plenty of choices to suit different budgets. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed in most areas of GOMA. However, flash photography, tripods, and video recording are usually prohibited to protect the artworks and ensure a good experience for all visitors. Instagram

Special exhibitions at GOMA may have stricter photography rules. Always check the signage within the exhibition space or ask gallery staff if you are unsure about what you can photograph. Instagram

The architecture of GOMA itself is very photogenic, especially the exterior and the internal spaces. Many artworks, particularly installations and fashion exhibits, also make for striking photographs. Instagram

Selfies are generally permitted as long as they are taken respectfully and without flash or obstructing other visitors. Be mindful of your surroundings and the artworks. Instagram

Check out Instagram and TikTok for inspiration! Creators often share stunning shots of the exhibitions and the gallery's architecture, giving you ideas for your own photos. Instagram+3

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

GOMA is a fantastic destination for families. While special exhibitions might require booking, the permanent collections offer plenty to engage younger minds. Look out for interactive displays or family-focused events that are often part of the programming. Reddit

Remember to check the QAGOMA website for any specific family activities or children's trails that might be available during your visit. The 'Wonderstruck' exhibition was noted as being particularly kid-friendly, with minimal queues for activities, suggesting that GOMA actively caters to younger visitors. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

For serious art lovers, GOMA is a must-visit. The gallery boasts a diverse collection of contemporary art from Australia, Asia, and the Pacific, with a strong focus on Indigenous Australian art and major international touring exhibitions. Reddit

Plan to spend ample time exploring both the Queensland Art Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art. Don't miss the Asia Pacific Triennial and keep an eye on upcoming special exhibitions like 'Fairy Tales' or 'Iris van Herpen' for truly unique artistic experiences. TikTokInstagram+1

📸 Photography Buffs

GOMA offers a visually rich environment for photographers. The striking modern architecture, both inside and out, provides excellent framing opportunities. Instagram

Many of the contemporary artworks, especially installations and fashion pieces like those by Iris van Herpen, are incredibly photogenic. Remember to check photography guidelines, as flash and tripods are usually restricted, but personal photography is generally welcomed. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the QAGOMA Complex

The Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) is actually a complex comprising two distinct buildings: the Queensland Art Gallery (QAG) and the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA). While they are sister institutions and often host joint exhibitions like the Asia Pacific Triennial, they have their own unique collections and architectural styles. Visitors can easily move between the two, which are located adjacent to each other on the South Bank. Reddit

QAG tends to focus more on historical and contemporary Australian art, including a significant collection of Indigenous Australian art, while GOMA is dedicated to contemporary international art, film, and digital media. This dual approach ensures a comprehensive and diverse art experience for every visitor, covering a broad spectrum of artistic expression from Australia and the wider Asia Pacific region. Reddit

Many visitors recommend dedicating a significant portion of their day to explore both galleries, as there is a wealth of art to see. The proximity and shared focus on contemporary art make them a natural pairing for any art lover visiting Brisbane. Reddit

Must-See Exhibitions and Collections

GOMA is renowned for its blockbuster special exhibitions, which often draw international attention. Recent highlights include the immersive 'Fairy Tales' exhibition, which delves into the modern interpretations of classic stories through various artistic mediums, and the breathtaking 'Iris van Herpen' haute couture exhibition, celebrated for its innovative designs and craftsmanship. TikTokInstagram+2

Beyond the ticketed events, the permanent collections are equally compelling. The Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art (APT) is a major recurring exhibition that showcases cutting-edge works from artists across the region, offering a vital platform for diverse voices and perspectives. Reddit Visitors also consistently praise the gallery's collection of Indigenous Australian art, which provides profound insights into the continent's rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions. Instagram

When planning your visit, it's always a good idea to check the QAGOMA website for current and upcoming exhibitions. This will help you prioritize what you want to see and book tickets for any special shows in advance, ensuring you don't miss out on these unique artistic experiences. TikTokInstagram

Experiencing GOMA on a Budget

A significant draw for budget-conscious travelers is that general admission to the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art is completely free. This means you can immerse yourself in world-class art without spending a dime on entry fees for the permanent collections. Reddit

While special exhibitions do come with a cost, there are often ways to make the most of your visit. Consider visiting during off-peak times or looking for potential discounts if available. Furthermore, the surrounding South Bank precinct offers numerous free activities and affordable dining options, allowing you to create a full day of exploration without breaking the bank. Reddit

Many visitors highlight that even without attending ticketed exhibitions, the free collections offer hours of engaging content. The architecture of the buildings and the riverside location also provide beautiful backdrops for photos and a pleasant atmosphere for a leisurely stroll. Reddit

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