Nolan: Origins at Art Gallery of New South Wales is an Imaginative World of Stories, Animals and Adventure


Art Gallery of New South Wales presents its new exhibition from one of Australia's most celebrated artists, Sidney Nolan. Featuring a comprehensive collection of stunning paintings, Nolan: Origins is an imaginative exhibition that explores the people, places and stories that inspired his unique vision.

Discover Australian Art With Nolan: Origins at the Art Gallery of New South Wales

Featuring more than 150 paintings created by Nolan before he moved to the UK in 1953, Nolan: Origins will take families on a whirlwind tour of people, places and stories that make this country so unique. From dramatic deserts in Central Australia to the lush landscapes of K'Gari (Fraser Island) and the bright lights of Luna Park and St Kilda, you too can explore the wonders of Australia through the eyes of this great artist. 

A bird flies above a mine in Australia
Sidney Nolan, Pretty Polly Mine 1948, Art Gallery of New South Wales, purchased 1949©. The Sidney Nolan Trust, all rights reserved, DCAS/Copyright Agency. 

Getting Creative With Kids 

Our beloved Australian native wildlife features throughout, offering kids the chance to spot their favourite animal amongst the stunning landscapes and scenery. If you have a curious little mind with you, pick up a free children's trail with activities and prompts. Kids can design their own animal logo, re-imagine a well-known Ned Kelly story and invent new names for desert plants. 

Mother and child at Nolan: Origins exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales
Installation view of Nolan: Origins exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales 2026, photo © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Ken Leanfore


The perfect day out for families, Nolan: Origins encourages kids to pause and think differently about the beautiful world we live in. Join one of the Gallery's volunteer guides for a free daily guided tour and don't miss the Kids Club workshops for 5–8-year-olds and 9–12-year-olds inspired by the exhibition on Sunday 25 October 2026.

Where: Art Gallery of New South Wales, Art Gallery Road, The Domain, Sydney
When: 3 October 2026 - 7 February 2027 
Cost:  Under 12 FREE. Youth  $10. Adults from $35. Family $80.

For more information and to book, visit the Art Gallery of New South Wales. 

Main image: Installation view of Nolan: Origins exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales 2026, photo © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Ken Leanfore.

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