Newcastle Art Gallery set to make its mark with opening weekend celebrations starting Friday 27 February. Laman Street will be closed to traffic and transformed into a street party from 5pm to 9pm on Friday 27 February.
Explore the temporary sculpture park featuring works by Braddon Snape and Dani Marti, as well as a disco-inspired garden created by Jen Denzin and David Lobb, which will evolve throughout the weekend thanks to interactive art-making activities perfect for the whole family.
A live music stage will feature a diverse line-up, including performances by Newcastle artist James Drinkwater and his surf rock band The Pitts, Maitland siblings Kinder, who are fresh from supporting Katy Perry on her Australian tour, and headliner DJ, songwriter and producer Jayteehazard.
Live performances will also be taking place inside the Gallery, including the CREATION choir led by multidisciplinary collection artists Deborah Kelly, Newcastle-based Torres Strait Islander artist Toby Cedar and his dance group, and artist Tina Havelock Stevens, who will combine movement and music in a one-of-a-kind drumming solo.
The celebrations will continue on Saturday 28 February with the official opening of the Iconic Loved Unexpected exhibition, displayed over both levels of the gallery, bringing together icons, favourites and unexpected gems from the Gallery’s $145 million collection.
A visit to the Gallery won’t be complete without a trip to the retail shop, which champions local makers and creators, and the Gallery’s first permanent café, which will be open ready for the weekend celebrations.
Named Hilliers in honour of the Oliver Hillier Drapery Store previously on the Gallery site, it will be operated by Jacque and Tom Brown, founders of Sprout Catering in Newcastle, who will infuse their longstanding commitment to seasonal food, sustainability and community into the cafe.
The full reopening is an exciting step for Newcastle Art Gallery. The Gallery reopened its doors in September 2025 for three new spaces allowing visitors to tour through the facility.
The initial reveal includes a dramatic, double-height central atrium and three new gallery spaces.
Newy with Kids took advantage of one of the ‘First Look’ guided tours offered during the New Annual festival.
With a First Nations first focus at the heart of the opening exhibitions, we enjoyed commissions by First Nations and local artists.
Upon entering, we were greeted by Adam Manning’s sound installation, A Sonic Acknowledgment of Country, 2025. Adam’s hope is that the work will instil a sense of calm and connection to the land as it unfolds through five distinct soundscapes sourced from Newcastle, Awabakal Country, and the surrounding areas.
Newcastle-based artist Renae Lamb’s work Dabuyarra murun: A story of life, legacy, and connection, 2025, is permanently installed in the floor of the central atrium, where the original 1977 building and the new expansion meet. Her songlines design was inspired by strong women and connecting stories.
Renae encourages children to follow her wavy lines that look like the twist and turns in a river and like footprints in the sand. See if you can spot the oyster in the middle of the work, formed by the shiny metal lines!
Look up to see Megan Cope’s oyster reef poles, in her work Kinyingarra Guwinyanba (Off Country) (2022). This artwork inspires visitors young and old to remember how important oysters are for healthy oceans and to help care for Country.
This is just a taste of the treasure trove of artwork waiting to be discovered, with highlights including the Valerie and John Ryan Gallery, masterpieces by the late Margaret Olley, and the compelling work of local artist Maggie Hensel-Brown.
The retail shop is also now open and proudly features products from local makers and creators.
Families looking to make their weekends more creative can join in a Studio Weekends session, the Gallery’s free weekly drop-in program. Held every Saturday and Sunday from 10.30am – 12:30pm, these hands-on sessions allow families to create art together.
The engaging activities are inspired by the Gallery’s current exhibitions and artists. Best of all, Studio Weekends are all-inclusive, suitable for all ages and abilities. No booking is required – just drop in and get creative!
Opening Hours: Open Friday to Sunday from 10am – 4pm
Cost: Free. Some special exhibitions and events may incur a charge.
Address: 1 Laman Street, Newcastle
Phone: (02) 4974 5100
Website: Newcastle Art Gallery