Visitors are encouraged to make the most of the last days at Wollongong Art Gallery before its temporary closure for building improvement works.
Key points:
- Wollongong Art Gallery will close on Monday 2 November 2026 for 12-months of renovation works.
- Art fans can enjoy one last visit with extra activities happening over the weekend.
- The Gallery Gift Shop is also holding a sale with up to 30% off most stock.
The closure, starting on Monday 2 November, will allow Wollongong City Council to undertake essential roof replacement and air conditioning upgrades, helping protect the heritage-listed building, improve visitor comfort and support the long-term care of the Gallery’s collection.
The works are expected to take around 12 months, with the Gallery anticipated to reopen in November 2027.
Lord Mayor of Wollongong Councillor Tania Brown said the project was an important investment in one of the region’s most-loved cultural hubs.
“These upgrades will help preserve the Gallery for future generations while also improving the environmental conditions required to care for artworks and host significant exhibitions,” Cr Brown said.
For details on the works, see release: Raising the roof and cooling things down at Wollongong Town Hall & Wollongong Art Gallery
“Before work begins, the Gallery’s collection will be carefully packed and relocated to secure storage to ensure their safety.”
“While the building is closed, Gallery staff will continue to work behind the scenes to develop future exhibitions and programming, including preparations for the Gallery’s 50th anniversary in 2028.”
Closing celebrations
Wollongong Art Gallery Director Dr Daniel Mudie Cunningham said the closing weekend was an opportunity for the community to celebrate the Gallery before it begins an exciting new chapter.
“The final weekend will celebrate the Gallery’s 2026 exhibition program, with free events inspired by the exhibitions GO BAG and Once Upon a Doll,” he said.
On Saturday 31 October, visitors can join a special closing weekend tour of GO BAG, led by curator Olivia Welch and followed by a live performance from exhibiting artist Kartika Suharto-Martin.
Then, on Sunday 1 November, bring along your favourite doll for Wollongong’s Next Top Doll Competition , a free event inspired by Once Upon a Doll. Judged by exhibition artist Raquel Caballero, Gallery Director Dr Daniel Mudie Cunningham and artist David Capra, the competition will celebrate dolls with standout style, unique personalities and star power, with prizes awarded across several categories.
“The Gallery Gift Shop is also holding a sale, with visitors able to save up to 30% off almost all stock until 1 November. The sale includes books, gifts, jewellery, homewares and more.”
Opening hours this week
| Day and date | Opening hours |
|---|---|
| Thursday 29 October | 10am to 5pm |
| Friday 30 October | 10am to 5pm |
| Saturday 31 October | 12pm to 4pm |
| Sunday 1 November | 12pm to 4pm |
| Monday 2 November onwards | CLOSED |
“While we’ll miss welcoming visitors during the closure, these upgrades will help ensure we can continue caring for the collection and delivering outstanding experiences for our community well into the future,” said Dr Cunningham.
