The Art Gallery of South Australia (AGSA) was established in June 1881 as the National Gallery of South Australia. It officially opened to the public that same year.
The Art Gallery of South Australia holds one of the most significant art collections in Australia, with more than 47,000 works spanning a wide range of cultures, styles, and periods. Its collection highlights include:
1. Australian Art
- Colonial to Contemporary: Paintings, sculpture, photography, and decorative arts from the early colonial period to contemporary works.
- Indigenous Art: One of the most comprehensive collections of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, including bark paintings, dot paintings, sculpture, and contemporary Indigenous works.
2. European Art
- Works from the Renaissance to the present day.
- Key holdings include 19th-century British art, Victorian painting, and modernist European works.
3. Asian Art
- Rich holdings from East Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, including:
• Chinese ceramics and jades.
• Japanese prints and textiles.
• Indian sculpture and miniature paintings.
4. Decorative Arts and Design
- Extensive collection of decorative arts including ceramics, glass, furniture, metalwork, and textiles.
- Includes Australian, European, and Asian design, from historical craftsmanship to modern design movements.
5. Contemporary Art
- Strong focus on Australian contemporary art and international contemporary artists.
- Includes installations, digital media, performance art, and cutting-edge visual works.
6. Photography and Prints
- Significant holdings of Australian and international photography and prints.
- Includes historical photographs, modernist works, and contemporary art photography.
