National Portrait Gallery - Canberra Australian Capital Territory
The National Portrait Gallery in Canberra is one of the must-visit attractions in the city. The gallery is home to an extensive collection of portraits, featuring prominent Australian figures across a range of fields, including politics, sport, the arts, and science.
The gallery is a celebration of Australians and their achievements, and it's an excellent place to learn about the country's culture, history, and identity. Visitors can expect to see portraits of famous Australians like Prime Minister Julia Gillard, cricket legend Don Bradman, and singer-songwriter Paul Kelly.
The National Portrait Gallery is an institution with a rich history. The idea for the gallery was conceived in the 1990s, with the aim of creating a dedicated space to showcase portraits of significant Australian figures. The gallery's first iteration was located in a rented space in Old Parliament House in Canberra, opening its doors to the public in 1998.
In 2008, the National Portrait Gallery found a permanent home in the newly-built King Edward Terrace building, located in the gallery precinct in the Parliamentary Triangle. The new building was designed by architects Johnson Pilton Walker, and it was the winner of the prestigious Sir Zelman Cowen Award for Public Architecture in 2009. The building itself is a work of art, with its façade featuring a glass wall etched with images of famous Australians.
The National Portrait Gallery's collection is constantly growing, with new portraits being added all the time. In 2021, the gallery acquired a portrait of surfing champion Layne Beachley, painted by artist Nicholas Harding. The portrait is just one example of the gallery's commitment to showcasing a diverse range of Australian figures.
One of the highlights of the National Portrait Gallery is the permanent exhibition "Australian Legends," which showcases portraits of some of the nation's most famous figures. Visitors can expect to see portraits of sporting greats like Cathy Freeman and Greg Norman, as well as famous artists like Sidney Nolan and Margaret Olley. The exhibition is a tribute to the people who have helped shape Australia into the nation it is today.
The National Portrait Gallery is also home to a range of temporary exhibitions, which are rotated throughout the year. Recent exhibitions have included "Lewis Carroll's Wonderland," which featured portraits of the famous "Alice in Wonderland" author, and "Sideshow Alley," which showcased portraits of circus performers and sideshow acts.
The gallery offers a range of activities and events for visitors, including tours, talks, and workshops. Visitors can take an audio tour of the gallery, which features commentary from curators and artists, or book a guided tour with a knowledgeable guide who can provide an in-depth look at the collection. The gallery also hosts regular workshops, where visitors can learn a new skill, such as portrait drawing or photography.
History and Address
The National Portrait Gallery is located on King Edward Terrace in Canberra, Australia. As mentioned, the gallery opened in its current location in 2008, after previously being located in Old Parliament House. The gallery is within walking distance of a range of other cultural institutions in the Parliamentary Triangle, including the National Gallery of Australia and the Questacon Science Museum.
The National Portrait Gallery is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with free admission. Visitors should allow at least a couple of hours to explore the gallery and take in all the exhibits. The gallery is fully accessible, with lifts, accessible toilets, and designated parking spaces for visitors with disabilities.
FAQ
Q: Is photography allowed in the gallery?
A: Photography is permitted in most exhibition spaces, but visitors are advised to check with gallery staff before taking any photos.
Q: Is there a gift shop in the gallery?
A: Yes, the gallery has a gift shop that sells a range of souvenirs, books, and other items related to the collection.
Q: Are there any cafes or restaurants in the gallery?
A: Yes, the gallery has a café that serves a range of snacks, meals, and drinks. Visitors can also choose to bring their own food and have a picnic on the grounds outside the gallery.
Q: Is the gallery suitable for children?
A: Yes, the gallery is a family-friendly destination, with plenty of activities and exhibitions that will appeal to children. The gallery also runs regular events and programs specifically for kids.
Q: Can I book a private tour of the gallery?
A: Yes, visitors can book a private guided tour of the gallery for themselves or their group. Private tours can be customized to suit the interests and needs of the visitors.
Overall, the National Portrait Gallery in Canberra is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in Australian history, culture, and identity. The collection is extensive and diverse, featuring portraits of some of the nation's most famous figures across a range of fields. Whether you're a local or a visitor to Canberra, the National Portrait Gallery is definitely worth a visit.
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