Construction starts on Sydney Modern Project

Artist impression of the Sydney Modern Project

The $344 million expansion will allow the gallery to display more of their art collection and host more exhibitions from around Australia and the world.

Expansion highlights

  • a new prominent destination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art
  • a large gallery for major exhibitions
  • a unique contemporary art space repurposed from a decommissioned WWII oil tank
  • flexible spaces to expand learning programs for schools, communities and families.

The Sydney Modern Project is the first public art museum in Australia to achieve the highest environmental standard for design. The Green Building Council of Australia has awarded the project a 6-star Green Star design rating.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the Sydney Modern Project will enrich the cultural life of NSW.

“The expansion will create an international art destination in one of the world’s most beautiful cultural precincts for everyone to enjoy,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“Gallery visitor numbers are expected to increase to at least two million people a year.”

The Sydney Modern Project is due to be completed in 2022. The Art Gallery of NSW will remain open during construction.

Find out more about the Sydney Modern Project

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