Art Galleries

Please see the map and table below to find Art Galleries in the Northern Rivers.

The Northern Rivers region of NSW is a major creative hub, home to one of the highest concentrations of artists in Australia. Whether you’re looking for major regional institutions or small, artist-run spaces, here is a list of must-visit galleries across the region.

Major Regional Galleries

These larger institutions often host national touring exhibitions and house significant permanent collections.

Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre (Murwillumbah)

Arguably the jewel of the region, this gallery offers stunning views of Wollumbin (Mt Warning). It features a world-class re-creation of Margaret Olley’s home studio and a dedicated space for the Olive Cotton Award for photographic portraiture.

The Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre is a premier cultural destination located in South Murwillumbah, offering a unique blend of high-caliber art and stunning natural scenery.

What’s There

The gallery is housed in a modern, award-winning building designed to frame panoramic views of the Tweed River and Mount Warning. It is widely regarded as one of Australia’s finest regional galleries.

  • Margaret Olley Art Centre: The centerpiece is a precise recreation of several rooms from the home-studio of Margaret Olley, one of Australia’s most beloved still-life painters. It features thousands of items from her actual Sydney home, arranged exactly as she left them.
  • Exhibitions: Seven exhibition spaces host a rotating program that includes the prestigious Olive Cotton Award for photographic portraiture, touring national exhibitions, and works by regional artists.
  • Apex Dining: The on-site café is famous for its “windows that bring the outside in,” providing a perfect spot for lunch or coffee with views over the lush green hinterland.
  • Amenities: Visitors can browse the curated Gallery Shop, visit the research library, or participate in interactive activities in the children’s play area.
How to Get There

The gallery is situated at 2 Mistral Road, South Murwillumbah, roughly a 5-minute drive from the center of Murwillumbah.

  • By Car: There is ample free parking on-site, including dedicated spaces for coaches and caravans.
  • By Bus: The 623 bus runs from the Murwillumbah Station coach stop directly to the gallery. The trip takes about 3 to 5 minutes and operates Monday through Saturday (services typically depart every four hours).
  • By Foot or Taxi: If you are staying in Murwillumbah, a taxi takes about 4 minutes. Active travelers can walk the 3.2 km distance, which takes approximately 40 minutes.
Best Time to Visit

To make the most of your visit, keep these timing tips in mind:

  • Operating Hours: The gallery is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and major holidays like Good Friday and Christmas Day.
  • Guided Tours: Free guided tours are held at 11:30 AM on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. These provide excellent context for the current exhibitions and the Margaret Olley recreation.
  • Daylight Savings Note: The gallery operates on NSW Daylight Savings Time. If you are visiting from Queensland during the summer months, remember that the gallery will be one hour ahead of your local time.
  • Weekdays vs. Weekends: Wednesday and Thursday mornings are generally quieter if you prefer a peaceful viewing experience, while the café is most vibrant on weekends when it opens slightly earlier at 9:00 AM.

Entry to the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre is free for all visitors. While there is no general admission fee, a booking fee may apply for large commercial coach groups or specifically booked guided tours.

On-Site Cafe: Apex Dining

The gallery features a popular on-site cafe called Apex Dining, known for its sweeping views of the Tweed Valley and Wollumbin (Mount Warning).

  • Menu: The cafe offers a blend of rustic French patisserie and modern cafe plates with a pan-Asian influence, focusing on local seasonal produce.
  • Hours: It typically opens Wednesday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and slightly earlier on weekends from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
  • Reservations: Booking is highly recommended, especially for lunch (12:00 PM – 2:30 PM), as it is a popular spot for both gallery visitors and locals.
  • Atmosphere: It provides both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a great place to enjoy a coffee or a full meal while taking in the landscape.

Lismore Regional Gallery

Located in the heart of Lismore, this gallery has fully revitalized its contemporary space. It focuses on experimental and community-driven art, frequently showcasing First Nations stories and local histories.

The Lismore Regional Gallery is one of the oldest cultural institutions in New South Wales and serves as a vital creative hub for the Northern Rivers region. After significant restoration following the 2022 floods, it has reopened as a modern, inclusive space that celebrates both national and local artists.

What’s There

The gallery is known for its bold contemporary exhibitions and its deep connection to the community.

  • Permanent Collection & Margaret Olley: The gallery holds an impressive collection, including works by Margaret Olley (who was born in Lismore), Lloyd Rees, and Albert Namatjira.
  • The Quad: The building opens onto Lismore Quadrangle “The Quad”, an outdoor cultural precinct used for live music, performances, and community festivals.
  • Diverse Exhibitions: Visitors can explore rotating contemporary art across multiple disciplines, often featuring First Nations voices and innovative regional creators.
  • Public Programs: The gallery frequently hosts artist talks, hands-on workshops, and volunteer-led tours that offer deeper insights into the displays.
How to Get There

Located at 11 Rural Street in the heart of Lismore, the gallery is easily accessible within the city center.

  • By Car: Parking is conveniently available in the Dawson Street car park nearby.
  • On Foot: It is a very short walk from the Lismore CBD, making it easy to combine with a visit to local shops or the “Back Alley Gallery” street art laneways.
  • By Public Transport: Lismore is a hub for regional bus services; the gallery is within walking distance from the main transit stops in the city center.
Best Time to Visit
  • Opening Hours: The gallery is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. On Thursdays, it stays open later until 6:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
  • Free Guided Tours: To get the most context, visit on a Thursday or Sunday at 11:00 AM to join a free volunteer-led tour.
  • Special Events: If you are visiting in June, don’t miss the Lismore Lantern Parade, which often centers around the Quad and gallery area during the winter solstice.


Cost: General entry to the Lismore Regional Gallery is free, though donations are welcomed to support their programs. Note that some special touring blockbusters (like the Archibald Prize) may occasionally require a paid ticket.

Cafe

The on-site cafe, Take Care, offers a contemporary menu featuring handmade pastries, buckwheat galettes, and seasonal plates. It provides a lovely atmosphere for dining inside or enjoying coffee on the grassy outdoor Quad.

Northern Rivers Community Gallery (Ballina)

The Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) is a vibrant creative hub located in the heart of Ballina. Housed in the beautifully restored 1927 heritage-listed former Ballina Municipal Council Chambers, it serves as a leading space for contemporary art and community engagement in the region.

What’s There

The gallery is known for its high-quality exhibition programs that celebrate both emerging and established regional artists.

  • Exhibition Spaces: The facility features four professional gallery spaces that host a rotating schedule of multi-arts exhibitions, including solo shows, group projects, and touring national programs.
  • Ignite Studios: Located adjacent to the gallery in the historic former Fire Station, this extension provides artist studios, residency spaces, and workshop areas where visitors can sometimes witness the creative process in action.
  • Gallery Shop: A dedicated space within the gallery showcases unique, locally-made ceramics, jewellery, textiles, and prints, making it an excellent stop for finding an authentic piece of Northern Rivers art.
How to Get There

The gallery is located at 44 Cherry Street, Ballina, making it easily accessible for those exploring the town center.

  • By Car: There is street parking available along Cherry Street and nearby side streets. Ballina is approximately a 20-minute drive south of Byron Bay.
  • On Foot: If you are staying in the Ballina CBD, the gallery is a short and pleasant walk from the main shopping precinct and the Richmond Riverfront.
  • By Public Transport: Local bus services connect Ballina with surrounding areas like Lennox Head and Byron Bay; the main bus stops are within easy walking distance of the gallery.
Best Time to Visit
  • Operating Hours: The gallery has unique hours, opening Wednesday to Friday (9:00 AM – 3:00 PM) and Saturday to Sunday (9:30 AM – 1:00 PM). It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
  • Exhibition Openings: New exhibitions often launch on a monthly basis, with opening events typically held on a Wednesday or Thursday evening—these are fantastic for meeting local artists.
  • Market Days: Combining your visit with a Sunday morning (when the gallery is open until 1:00 PM) allows you to also explore the local Ballina Farmers Market held nearby.
Entry

General entry to the Northern Rivers Community Gallery is free. The gallery is community-focused and encourages accessibility for all visitors, though some specialized workshops or ticketed public programs may have an associated cost.

Cafe

Sharing the historic Council Chambers building is the popular Gallery Cafe Ballina, a local favorite known for its tranquil garden setting.

  • Atmosphere: Diners can sit on the leafy verandah or inside the character-filled heritage rooms. It is a pet-friendly venue, making it a popular spot for a coffee after a morning walk.
  • Menu: The cafe focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients and is highly regarded for its creative breakfast and lunch options, as well as its selection of locally roasted coffee and handmade cakes.
  • Hours: The cafe generally opens from 7:00 AM to 1:30 PM (Wednesday to Sunday), often staying open slightly later on weekdays, making it an ideal spot for a pre-gallery brunch or a mid-morning treat.

Grafton Regional Gallery

Grafton Regional Gallery is a premier cultural destination in the Clarence Valley, housed in the beautifully restored historic Prentice House (circa 1880) and featuring modern, award-winning extensions. It serves as a major hub for contemporary visual arts in the southern part of the Northern Rivers region.

What’s There

The gallery is the cultural heart of the Clarence Valley, known for its extensive collection and focus on drawing.

  • The JADA Collection: The gallery is home to the Jacaranda Acquisitive Drawing Award (JADA), Australia’s richest regional drawing prize. The collection features an incredible range of contemporary Australian drawings.
  • Indigenous Art: You will find significant works by the Bundjalung, Gumbaynggirr, and Yaegl nations. The gallery biennial hosts the Clarence Valley Indigenous Art Award.
  • Heritage Gardens: The gallery is surrounded by tranquil cottage gardens and a shady courtyard, perfect for a stroll between viewing the indoor exhibitions.
  • The Gallery Store: This curated shop features unique gifts, artisan jewelry, and works by local creators, often serving as a great spot to find a one-of-a-kind souvenir from the region.
How to Get There

Located at 158 Fitzroy Street, Grafton, the gallery is situated within the town’s heritage precinct.

  • By Car: Grafton is well-connected via the Pacific Highway. There is onsite parking available for visitors.
  • By Foot: If you are staying in the Grafton CBD, the gallery is a pleasant walk from many central hotels and the iconic riverfront.
  • Public Transport: Grafton is accessible via regional NSW TrainLink services. The gallery is about a 15-minute walk or a short taxi ride from the Grafton Railway Station.
Best Time to Visit
  • Operating Hours: The gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays and most public holidays.
  • Jacaranda Season: Visiting in late October or early November is particularly magical, as Grafton’s famous Jacaranda trees are in full bloom, and the gallery often hosts themed events during the festival.
  • Quiet Periods: Mid-week mornings are usually the quietest time to explore the galleries in peace.
Entry

Entry to the Grafton Regional Gallery is generally free, though a gold coin donation is appreciated. Occasionally, major touring exhibitions may have a specific ticket price, so it is worth checking their current program before you arrive.

Cafe

The gallery features an onsite cafe, which offers a lovely setting for breakfast or lunch.

  • Setting: You can dine in the sunny courtyard overlooking the gardens, which is a favorite spot for locals.
  • Hours: The cafe typically aligns with gallery hours, opening from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Tuesday through Sunday.
  • Menu: The menu focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients with a range of specialty coffees, light meals, and homemade cakes.

Boutique & Artist-Run Spaces

For a more intimate experience or to purchase works directly from local creatives:

  • Lone Goat Gallery (Byron Bay): Located within the Byron Bay Library building, this is the town’s premier community gallery, featuring a sophisticated rotation of local and visiting contemporary artists.
  • Haven Gallery (Byron Bay): A newer, immersive, and multi-sensory art space in the center of Byron Bay that blends digital imagination with physical installations.
  • Blue Knob Hall Gallery & Café (Lillian Rock): A hidden gem located at the foot of Blue Knob Mountain. It’s a non-profit gallery showing ceramics, glassware, and paintings, often with an eco-conscious or rural theme.
  • Nimbin Artists Gallery (Nimbin): A vibrant, artist-run cooperative located next to the Nimbin Town Hall. It’s the best place to see the “psychedelic” and alternative art styles for which the town is famous.
  • Roxy Gallery (Kyogle): A community-run space that showcases a wide variety of mixed media from the Kyogle shire and surrounding hinterland.
  • Cassino Gallery (Casino): A local hub that focuses on community engagement through regular exhibitions, workshops, and art classes.

Unique Art Trails & Outdoor Galleries

Back Alley Gallery (Lismore): An “open-air” gallery featuring over 60 murals, graffiti pieces, and installations in the laneways of Lismore’s CBD.

Murwillumbah & Tweed Valley

  • Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre: A premier national destination featuring the Margaret Olley home studio re-creation and the Olive Cotton Award.
  • M-Arts Precinct: A vibrant industrial warehouse space where you can watch artists work in their shipping-container studios and browse the gallery.
  • Mist Gallery (Cabaret): A boutique gallery in Cabarita Beach focusing on contemporary Australian landscape and still life.

Byron Bay & Bangalow

  • Lone Goat Gallery: Located in the Byron Bay Library, it is the town’s premier community art space.
  • Thomgallery: A high-end private gallery in the Byron Arts & Industry Estate focusing on significant investment pieces and large-scale sculpture.
  • Bangalow Galleries: Various boutique spaces in the historic village of Bangalow often feature high-end fine art and photography.
  • Haven Gallery: A multi-sensory and digital art installation space in central Byron.

Lismore & Surrounds

  • Lismore Regional Gallery: A major hub for contemporary and experimental art with a strong focus on community and First Nations stories.
  • Blue Knob Hall Gallery & Café (Lillian Rock): A cooperative gallery nestled in the hinterland, focusing on ceramics, fiber art, and works inspired by the environment.
  • Nimbin Artists Gallery: An artist-run cooperative showcasing the unique, vibrant, and “psychedelic” art characteristic of Nimbin.
  • Serpentine Community Gallery: A community-run space in Lismore that provides a platform for emerging and local grassroots artists.

Ballina, Lennox Head & Coastal

  • Northern Rivers Community Gallery (Ballina): Housed in the historic council chambers, offering four distinct exhibition spaces with a high-frequency rotation.
  • Lennox Arts Collective: A group of local artists (painters, photographers, and designers) sharing a space in the heart of Lennox Head.

Casino, Kyogle & The Hinterland

  • Roxy Gallery (Kyogle): A professional exhibition space within the Kyogle Council building that highlights regional mixed-media artists.
  • Cassino Gallery (Casino): A community-based art center and gallery that hosts local exhibitions and art workshops.

    Clarence Valley

    • Coldstream Gallery (Ulmarra): Housed in the historic council chambers, offering four distinct exhibition spaces with a high-frequency rotation.
    • Charles Street Gallery (Iluka): A group of local artists (painters, photographers, and designers) sharing a space in the heart of Lennox Head.
    • Esk Studio (Iluka):