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, this imaginative exhibition 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. 

Sidney Nolan painting of a hotel with a duck floating above it
Sidney Nolan Dog and Duck Hotel 1948, Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)© The Sidney Nolan Trust, all rights reserved, DACS/Copyright Agency

The perfect day out for families, Nolan: Origins encourages kids to pause and think differently about the beautiful world we live in. If you attend during the School Holidays, artist Madeleine Kelly has created a workshop where kids can decorate a double bird in flight. Free drop-in. 

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. 

Hero image caption: Sidney Nolan Diver, 1945, private collection©. The Sidney Nolan Trust, all rights reserved, DCAS/Copyright Agency. 

More Family Days Out 

Spring School Holidays at the Art Gallery of New South Wales
Festival of Mosman: Encore. Six Days. Six Huge Free Events
Play! Kids Festival: School Holiday Fun at Sutherland Pavilion

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