If you’re looking to decorate a new home or invest in a statement piece, buying art is about more than filling a blank wall. It’s about connection, creativity and storytelling. And, when it comes to art, Sydney has no shortage of it. From world-class galleries to hidden artist studios and emerging pop-ups, Sydney offers a vibrant and eclectic art scene with something for every taste and budget.
This guide will take you through some of the best places to explore. Whether you’re after bold contemporary canvases, Indigenous art, photography, sculptures or just some living room-friendly, affordable prints, we’ve got a spot for you.
Sydney isn’t just known for its beaches and skyline; it’s also home to a rich cultural and artistic history. The city boasts more than 100 commercial art galleries and hosts renowned exhibitions, like the Biennale of Sydney, the Archibald Prize at the Art Gallery of NSW, and Sculpture by the Sea.
According to the Australia Council for the Arts, nearly half of all Australians visited a gallery or museum in the past year, and Sydney leads the way in terms of public art engagement.
From Indigenous cultural heritage to modern-day experimental works, the diversity of Sydney’s art scene reflects its global outlook and deep local roots. For experienced collectors and newbies to the world of art alike, there’s no better place to explore and invest.
While this is by no means a list of all the places to buy art in Sydney, we’ve handpicked a few special spots across a diverse range of styles, affordability options and locations in the city. Here are our top picks:
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Olsen Gallery has been a cornerstone of Sydney’s contemporary art scene since 1993, offering a carefully curated mix of both emerging talent and celebrated names. Founded by Tim Olsen (son of the legendary John Olsen), the gallery has played a huge role in shaping what contemporary Australian art looks like today.
You'll find rotating exhibitions featuring work ranging from emerging art school graduates to artists already housed in major collections. At the heart of it all is a deep passion for storytelling through art, with a strong commitment to nurturing long-term careers.
Tucked behind the main gallery is the ANNEXE. This is a dedicated space for more curated, creative projects. While Olsen has a strong focus on Australian talent, they’re also opening up conversations with international artists from Europe, Asia, and the US.
Whether you’re dipping your toe into collecting or looking for something special to invest in, Olsen is a great place to explore high-quality, contemporary work with depth and heart.
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If you’re after something fresh, creative and a little bit underground, China Heights is the place. Tucked away in a loft-style space in Surry Hills, this independent gallery has been ‘doing its thing’ since 2004, building a solid reputation for showcasing design-driven and culturally plugged-in work. Think photography, fashion, music, street art and everything in between.
The vibe is relaxed, youthful and always interesting, with regular Friday night openings that feel more like gatherings than formal events. It’s a great spot to discover emerging artists or grab a limited-edition piece before it sells out. Whether you’re into clean graphic design, bold prints or work that reflects Sydney’s creative subcultures, China Heights offers a fresh take on what it means to collect art right now.
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Saint Cloche is one of those special galleries that feels both polished and welcoming at the same time. Tucked away in Paddington, it brings together a cool mix of well-known artists and fresh faces across painting, sculpture, ceramics and photography. Director Kitty Clark curates every show with a sharp eye, building a community of collectors who love clever, elegant displays.
But Saint Cloche isn’t just about exhibitions. They also host a multitude of creative events, including art workshops, well-being sessions, sound baths and meditations. This gives visitors a chance to really connect with the art on a deeper level.
The gallery often teams up with ‘big names’, like Loewe, Tiffany & Co. and the Two Good Foundation. Their artists even get a spotlight in magazines like Vogue, Vault and The Design Files.
What’s really interesting is that Saint Cloche welcomes submissions from emerging artists, making it one of the few commercial galleries in East Sydney that actively supports rising new talent. It’s a perfect spot to discover something fresh, start a collection with heart and be part of a community that cares about genuine creativity.
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Curatorial+Co. is a fresh, forward-thinking gallery that brings together emerging and mid-career artists from Australia and around the world. What started as an online platform is now a bright and welcoming space in Woolloomooloo, showcasing monthly exhibitions packed with colour, texture, and bold ideas.
With over 40 artists on the books (many of whom are women), the gallery champions diversity, experimentation, and genuine connection. Whether you're a new collector or love discovering something different, Curatorial+Co. makes contemporary art feel approachable and exciting.
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APY Gallery Sydney is part of a powerful trio of Indigenous-owned galleries with sister spaces in Adelaide and Melbourne. Opened in 2018 under the guidance of Anangu Elders, this bright and welcoming space showcases the work of early-career Indigenous artists from across the APY Lands, regional South Australia and Adelaide.
The gallery hosts a monthly exhibition program featuring vibrant and meaningful artworks ranging from paintings, punu (wood carving), ceramics, textiles, weaving, photography, and more. Every piece is created through ethical, community-led art centres and sold under a commission model that ensures 80% of the sale price goes directly back to the artists' art centres. It’s one of the most ethical ways to buy Indigenous art, and every purchase supports culture, community and creative futures.
If you're looking for art that’s deeply rooted in story, culture and connection, APY Gallery is a beautiful place to start.
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The Incognito Art Show flips the usual art-buying experience on its head. Every artwork is sold for just AU$100. But there’s a catch. You won’t know who created it until after you buy it. Each piece is A5-sized and could be from an emerging talent, a well-known artist or even a creative with a cult following. You choose purely based on what you love, not who made it.
This annual not-for-profit event is one of Australia’s biggest and most inclusive art shows. All proceeds from the event go towards supporting artists living with disabilities. It’s a brilliant way to make art collecting more accessible, while also backing a great cause.
Since launching in 2021, Incognito has opened doors for new collectors. This allows emerging artists to have a serious platform to showcase their work, and creates a space where art is appreciated for its feeling, not for fame.
If you're after a unique buying experience with heart, creativity and a little mystery, keep an eye out for this year's Incognito event in Sydney, or explore pieces online.
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The Other Art Fair is not your average gallery experience. Part art show, part festival, and entirely unexpected, it’s loud, lively and packed with creative energy. Held at the White Bay Cruise Terminal in Sydney each year, the fair features 120 independent artists selling original, affordable works across all styles and mediums. You’ll also find immersive installations, live performances, DJs, and a buzzing bar to keep the energy high.
Globally, this event has not only given over 10,000 artists a space to share their work, but it's also sent more than 100,000 artworks into the homes of curious collectors. Whether you're new to buying art or want something a little different, The Other Art Fair makes it easy to find pieces you genuinely love. There’s no gallery snobbery, no pressure; just good vibes and great art.
Once you’ve found the perfect piece, getting it home safely is key, especially if it’s large, fragile or one-of-a-kind. Whether you’re buying art from a gallery, a private artist or a pop-up event, Upmove is a network of trusted moving teams and specialist couriers.
You can easily book the best art removalists in Sydney (and beyond) to ensure your favourite artwork arrives safe and sound, ready to hang in your home.
Upmove is Australia’s trusted choice for removalist and moving company services, helping thousands of customers move homes, furniture, cars, motorcycles, and more. Since 2017, we’ve been delivering reliable, affordable, and well-reviewed moving services across Australia. Our focus has always been on making moving simple and stress-free — from booking experienced removalists to completing your delivery with care. With Upmove, you get professional service, fixed prices, and peace of mind on every move.
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