Look beyond the Gold Coast’s glittering beaches and high rises, and there’s a thriving art scene waiting to be explored. Not sure where to start? We’ve done the legwork for you – here are the best art galleries on the Gold Coast (and beyond).
Home of the Arts, Surfers Paradise
We have to start with HOTA, the Gold Coast’s literal Home of the Arts. This huge venue is home to ever-changing galleries, a cinema, outdoor theatre and surrounding parklands. Keep a close eye on their program – blink, and you’ll miss something spectacular.
Top tip: They also host markets here on a Sunday morning.
The Hive, Burleigh Heads
Whether you’re keen to browse fine art in contemplative silence, or take a bubbles-fuelled painting class with your friends, you can do both at The Hive. Their Burleigh location houses works by local artists, while their classes are held at Currumbin and Isle of Capri.
Mint Art House, Burleigh Heads
Arguably (it’s us… we’re arguing it) the coolest artist-run gallery on the Gold Coast, Mint Art House hosts artist talks, exhibitions and workshops. Whether it’s a life drawing session, studio residency or a group exhibition, there’s always something new to experience at Mint.
19 Karen, Mermaid Beach
Passionate about supporting as many local and international artists as they can – and representing a variety of styles and genres in the process – 19 Karen is a true one-stop shop. Their goal is to provide visitors with ‘an immediate sensory and awe-inspiring experience upon entry’, and they deliver.
Gallery One, Southport
Since opening in 2010, Gallery One has become one of the city’s – even the state’s – leading contemporary fine art galleries. This is the place to go if you’re looking for award-winning Australian artwork, both in solo and group exhibitions.
Dust Temple, Currumbin
Put simply, Dust Temple is a vibe. This ramshackle warehouse has plenty of cosy corners to curl up in, outdoor dining space and – of course – incredible artworks. While they don’t have any exhibitions on the calendar, poke your head in and check out some of the individual pieces on display.
Top tip: They also host rack sales here on the second and last Sundays of the month.
Honourable Mention
Margaret Olley Art Centre, Murwillumbah
An ode to Australia’s most celebrated painter of still life and interiors, this gallery makes tangible the career, life and legacy of its namesake, Margaret Olley. Don’t miss the recreation of her famous home studio – which is filled with over 20,000 items Olley collected over the years.
Top tip: Stop by M-Arts Precinct while you’re in Murwillumbah, too.
Seasonal exhibitions…
Tamborine Mountain Arts Trail, Tamborine Mountain
Usually in May
A sprawling showcase of over 60 local artists, spread across 25 venues on beautiful Tamborine Mountain. Don’t miss the outdoor sculpture trail, which displays works by award-winning Scenic Rim sculptors in Knoll Studio Gardens.
SWELL Sculpture Festival, Currumbin
Usually in September
See Currumbin beachfront transformed with more than 65 weird and wonderful sculptures by local, national and international artists. There is also a program of pop-up exhibitions, twilight sculpture walks, live music, masterclasses and food.