Canberra’s world-class galleries and museums are always worth a visit and we’re very excited for this season’s exhibitions. Keep reading and put these dates in your diary for your next Canberra art getaway.

Heath Ledger: A Life In Pictures
National Film and Sound Archive
10 August 2018 to 10 February 2019

Heath Ledger with Bell & Howell, 70D 16mm motion picture camera, 19 April 2001. Photo: Karin Catt

A true talent and a life cut short, Heath Ledger is a beloved Australian icon whose films continue to entertain and challenge. Best known for films such as The Dark Knight and Brokeback Mountain, his signature smile and commitment to his characters is something that continues to endure. This exhibition is made up of a host of objects from costumes and props, his own character research journals, portraits and awards that tell a story of his life and work. Enjoy a glimpse into Heath’s professional works and personal passions. The collection has been thoughtfully curated in collaboration with his family.

American Masters 1940 – 1980
National Gallery of Australia (NGA)
24 August to 11 November 2018

Jackson Pollock, Blue poles 1952, oil, enamel, aluminium paint, glass on canvas, National Gallery of Australia © Pollock-Krasner Foundation/ARS/Copyright Agency

This Jackson Pollock work Blue Poles was acquired by the NGA is 1973 and was, at the time, the most expensive American painting ever. Adding this to their collection was quite a coup for the gallery and has fuelled a passion for art of this type. This exhibition is pulled together exclusively from the gallery’s collection and features modern works by American artists from the 1940s to 80s. Pieces from artists such as Andy Warhol, Claes Oldenburg, Chuck Close, Donald Judd, Eva Hesse and Louise Bourgeois are on display.

Also, make sure to put the NGA’s next major exhibition in your diary, Love and Desire – Pre-Raphaelite Masterpieces from the Tate is opening 14 December.

So Fine: Contemporary women artists make Australian history
National Portrait Gallery
9 June to 1 October 2018

Dana Bergstorm, Penguin, 2018 By Linde Ivimey

This exhibition features ten Australian female artists and works that centre around the history of our country. Each work was newly created for the exhibition and both the specific subject matter and artistic medium are as diverse as the artists themselves.

Rome: City and Empire
National Museum of Australia
21 September 2018 to 3 February 2019

At one time the Roman Empire was the centre of economic, military and social power. This ancient civilisation continues to enthral us with stories of battles, gladiators and epic religious and mythological tales. Take a journey to ancient Rome with the exhibition featuring more than 200 objects from the British Museum.

Love art and local galleries?

Click the below links to check out upcoming exhibitions at some of our favourite galleries including smaller boutique spaces.

• ANCA Gallery
• ANU School of Art Gallery and Drill Hall
• Beaver Galleries
• Belconnen Arts Centre
• Bilk Gallery
• Canberra Contemporary Art Space
• Canberra Museum and Gallery
• Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre
• M16 Artspace
• Megalo Print Studio and Gallery
• Tuggeranong Arts Centre

We look forward to welcoming you to Canberra. Take advantage of our central location in Canberra’s CBD, close to many galleries. Discover our accommodation packages and get in touch.

Feature image: Heath Ledger in the Yellow Kitchen at Jacksue Gallery Perth 1999 @Frances Andrijich