City of Newcastle has unveiled a collection of iconic Australian artworks valued at more than $30 million as part of the opening of a new exhibition space at the Newcastle Art Gallery. The collection includes more than 130 works, featuring colonial-era classics and modern pieces by artists such as Joseph Lycett, William Dobell, Grace Cossington Smith, and Margaret Preston.
The new space is the fourth to open in the expanded gallery, which is undergoing a staged reopening ahead of its full unveiling in February 2026. Since the first galleries opened on September 26, nearly 11,000 visitors have attended, including guests from Austria, Canada, Finland, France, India, Mongolia, and Switzerland.
Newcastle Art Gallery director Lauretta Morton OAM expressed excitement about revealing another new space, noting the meticulous work required to prepare the gallery for long-term display. “We have been overwhelmed by the support shown since we opened the doors,” she said. “This is still just the beginning, with more art and another nine exhibition spaces to come next year.”
The gallery will celebrate the opening with a free Friday Night Sounds event on December 19, featuring live music from local singer-songwriter Nina Romeru and a wildlife drawing workshop. The gallery is currently open Friday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm.
When fully opened in February 2026, the gallery will host a major collection exhibition and unveil a commission by internationally renowned artist Fayen d'Evie.
