Discover captivating contemporary collections of art inundated with Brisbane’s rich history and culture at The City’s exceptional museums and galleries. The City invites lovers of art, culture and history to uncover its treasure trove of experiences. Queensland’s meaningful stories, playful art and history is ready to be uncovered by you. Here’s six rich cultural experiences to be found in The City.
Located on the third floor of the historic City Hall building, Museum of Brisbane (MoB) is one of The City’s best-kept secrets. Experience Brisbane’s dynamic culture scene through ever-changing exhibitions, interactive workshops, insightful tours, captivating talks and exclusive events that celebrate the past and present of Brisbane’s fashion, music, art, cultural and design industries. Don’t miss the MoB Shop during your visit where you can browse the thoughtfully curated range of contemporary jewellery, homewares, books and more by independent artisians.
For those seeking a deep dive into Brisbane’s history and involvement in World War || the MacArthur Museum Brisbane in the heritage-listed MacArthur Chambers building is a captivating visit. The MacArthur Museum offers a powerful, emotional and informative look as to what it looked like behind the front lines of our role in one of modern history’s greatest conflicts, and how we catered for up to one million U.S military personel passing through to the Pacific War
Step back in time with a visit to the Commissariat Store, Queensland’s most significant and oldest habitable building, established by convicts in 1828-1829. The building itself is a remarkable piece of history and is housed within one of 11 heritage buildings that make up the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane precinct. This niche museum offers a captivating glimpse into Brisbane’s past and Queensland’s history through a series of rotating exhibitions and a fascinating collection of models and artefacts.
QUT Art Museum and its sister gallery, William Robinson Gallery, are two of Queensland’s leading visual art institutions. At QUT Art Museum, you’ll find in-house curated exhibitions drawn from the university’s extensive art collection of more than 3000 objects. The exhibition includes paintings, sculptures, and ceramics, primarily by Australian artists. The William Robinson Gallery in the beautiful surrounds of Old Government House proudly celebrates the works of Australia’s outstanding landscape artist William Robinson, housing more than 300 objects. Both galleries are complemented by a year-round program of special events and incredible educational experiences.
Step back in time to understand World War || and how it affected Brisbane along with the rest of the world. This transformative journey is offered as a hybrid experience available in person, online or as a tour for students. This museum provides a moving exploration of the Holocaust, designed to engage and educate everyone. Queensland Holocaust Museum houses compelling artefacts and first-hand stories from Queensland survivors located on the lower ground floor of the historic Penola Place and the Old Archive Building.
If you would rather embark on a journey around Brisbane, then you can find art hidden down laneways, in within lush parks and magnified on high-rise facades, The City is filled with spectacular public art. Take a deep dive into The City’s vibrant cultural landscape with Brisbane City Council’s five public art trails, grouped thematically with unique experiences to celebrate the Brisbane River, Brisbane’s contemporary art and architecture, and our City’s rich cultural heritage.