Launceston Art Galleries. Tasmania’s second-largest city, is a hidden treasure for art lovers. While it may not have the same high-profile art scenes as other cities, it boasts several remarkable galleries offering a rich cultural experience. As a passionate art enthusiast, I’ve had the privilege of visiting many of these spaces. Displaying both local and international art that tells compelling stories. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, a casual art lover, or someone with an appreciation for history and design, these galleries offer something special.
In this post, I’ll walk you through my top five Launceston art galleries: the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG), Design Tasmania, the DaDa Museum, Art Ark, and Sawtooth Ari. Each gallery contributes something unique to the local art scene. I hope this guide inspires you to visit these places and support the vibrant artistic community in Launceston. Let’s dive in!
1. Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG)
The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG) is undoubtedly one of Launceston’s cultural landmarks. Located in the historic Inveresk Railway Workshops, this institution is a fusion of art, history, and science, all under one roof. Its vast and diverse collection includes everything from natural history specimens to contemporary artworks, making it a true cultural hub for visitors.
Why I Love QVMAG:
For me, QVMAG offers more than just a place to view art—it’s a window into Tasmania’s rich history and artistic legacy. The museum showcases some of the island’s best-known artists, such as Hugh Ramsay, Julie Gough, and James D. MacDonald, with a vast collection that spans several centuries. What makes QVMAG so special is its ability to blend different types of exhibitions. Whether you’re walking through galleries dedicated to local wildlife or viewing thought-provoking contemporary works, each visit to QVMAG feels like a new discovery.
The Tasmanian Art Collection at QVMAG is a particular highlight. It offers a deep dive into the history of the island’s visual culture, showcasing pieces that document the region’s development through the eyes of various artists.
A History
The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG) has a rich history dating back to 1891. Established to preserve and showcase the cultural heritage of Tasmania, it is one of the largest and most significant regional museums in Australia. Located in Launceston, QVMAG houses a diverse collection that spans fine art, natural history, and cultural heritage. The museum has played a key role in the development of the state’s cultural identity, with a particular focus on Tasmanian history, art, and natural environment. Over the years, QVMAG has evolved to include contemporary art exhibitions, making it a hub for both historical and modern artistic expression. With its vast collections and engaging exhibitions, QVMAG continues to be a cultural pillar of Launceston, connecting visitors with Tasmania’s past, present, and future.
What to Expect:
- Exhibitions: A wide range of exhibitions, from historical works to contemporary art, showcasing both Australian and international artists.
- Historical Collections: Artworks that provide a unique glimpse into Tasmania’s past, as well as scientific exhibitions about local wildlife.
- Events: Talks, workshops, and performances that engage the public and foster a deeper understanding of art and culture.
QVMAG is one of the best places to gain an understanding of Tasmania’s artistic and natural history, and I always leave feeling inspired by the diversity of works on display. You can visit their website here. Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG)
2. Design Tasmania
For those who appreciate design as an art form, Design Tasmania is an absolute must-see. Located in the heart of Launceston, this gallery celebrates the craftsmanship and creativity of local designers, particularly those working with Tasmania’s natural materials, like timber. The gallery focuses on the intersection of design, sustainability, and innovation, showcasing pieces that highlight the beauty and utility of Tasmanian craftsmanship.
Why I Love Design Tasmania:
Design Tasmania offers something different from traditional art galleries—it’s a celebration of function, form, and sustainability. The gallery’s exhibits feature a diverse range of objects, including contemporary furniture, homeware, and textiles. Each piece tells a story of local craftsmanship and design, rooted in Tasmania’s natural environment. The sustainable approach to design also speaks to the island’s broader commitment to environmental consciousness, which resonates deeply with me.
What makes Design Tasmania unique is its emphasis on handcraft. As you walk through the space, you can appreciate the skill and effort that goes into each piece. The exhibition often features both established and emerging designers, providing them with a platform to showcase their talents in an innovative and professional setting.
A History
Design Tasmania, founded in 1976, has become a cornerstone of the state’s design and craft community. Originally established to promote Tasmanian craftsmanship and design, the gallery has evolved into a dynamic space that celebrates contemporary design, fine craft, and innovative artistry. It serves as a platform for both emerging and established Tasmanian designers, showcasing works that emphasize sustainable practices and the use of local materials. Over the years, Design Tasmania has played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s creative landscape, providing a space for local designers to gain national and international recognition. The gallery’s mission is to foster a deeper appreciation for the intersection of design and craft, making it a must-visit for those interested in the innovative side of Tasmania’s creative culture.
What to Expect:
- Innovative Design: An array of modern, functional art pieces—especially in the form of furniture and design objects—that blend style with sustainability.
- Sustainable Craftsmanship: Many of the items on display are made from locally sourced, sustainable materials, showcasing Tasmania’s unique resources.
- Workshops and Events: The gallery also hosts events that highlight the work of local designers and promote sustainable design practices.
For design enthusiasts, Design Tasmania is the perfect gallery to explore the island’s creative potential and craftsmanship.
3. Dada Muse
Dada Muse is a unique and exciting space in Launceston. It focuses on showcasing avant-garde, experimental, and conceptual art. The gallery draws inspiration from the DaDa movement of the early 20th century. This movement was known for its radical approach to art. It challenged conventional norms and embraced absurdity and chaos. By rejecting traditional aesthetic values, DaDa encouraged rebellion and experimentation in the art world.
Similarly, Dada Muse brings this rebellious energy into the 21st century. It offers a platform for contemporary artists to explore new ideas. The museum provides a space for artists to experiment with innovative forms of expression. In doing so, it continues the legacy of DaDa. The museum ensures that boundaries are always being pushed. Artists are encouraged to break free from tradition. They are invited to embrace bold, unconventional approaches to their work. This unique combination of historical influence and contemporary experimentation makes Dada Muse a standout destination. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking art that challenges, inspires, and provokes thought.
Why I Love Dada Muse:
Dada Muse is one of those places that never fails to excite me. It consistently offers something unexpected, which keeps me coming back for more. The gallery functions as a space for pure experimentation and innovation, always pushing the boundaries of what art can be. What I love most is how it embraces art that challenges conventional norms, never shying away from controversial or unsettling works. The exhibitions at DaDa are often multidisciplinary, incorporating performance art, installations, and video. This blend of mediums adds a dynamic layer to the overall experience, making each visit feel fresh and unique.
The museum draws significant inspiration from the DaDa movement, which emerged in the early 20th century as a direct response to the horrors of World War I. This movement was born from a desire to break away from the constraints of traditional artistic norms. It was a radical rejection of conventional aesthetics, embracing absurdity, chaos, and the unexpected. Dada Muse successfully carries this rebellious spirit into the 21st century. It provides a platform for contemporary artists to experiment with new ideas, pushing them to challenge societal norms through their work.
What truly sets Dada Muse apart from other galleries in Launceston is its unwavering commitment to presenting art that forces viewers to rethink their assumptions. It’s not just about admiring the visual beauty of a painting or sculpture; it’s about confronting difficult questions, complex emotions, and thought-provoking ideas. The museum invites its visitors to engage deeply with the art, to question their perceptions, and to consider the broader context in which the work exists. By doing so, DaDa ensures that each visit is more than just an aesthetic experience—it’s an opportunity to reflect, explore, and engage with art in a completely new way.
A History
Dada Muse was established with the primary goal of preserving and promoting the radical legacy of the DaDa movement. This movement, known for its challenge to conventional art norms, is a key influence in the museum’s ongoing mission. Since its foundation, the gallery has focused on presenting works that break away from traditional artistic boundaries. The exhibitions are often avant-garde, deliberately questioning and subverting accepted notions of what art should be. As a result, the museum has become an essential cultural hub for avant-garde art in Launceston, drawing in artists, critics, and art lovers from around the globe.
What to Expect:
- Avant-Garde Exhibitions: Exhibits that showcase experimental, unconventional art that pushes the limits of traditional mediums.
- Multi-Disciplinary Installations: Expect to encounter installations, video works, and live performances that invite audience interaction.
- Innovative Approaches: Art that challenges societal norms and asks difficult questions about contemporary life.
Dada Muse is a perfect destination for anyone interested in exploring art that challenges norms and engages with modern issues in thought-provoking ways. You can visit the Dada Muse website here. Dada Muse
4. Art Ark
Art Ark is a contemporary art space in Launceston that showcases emerging and mid-career artists. It fosters creativity and supports experimentation. The gallery encourages artists to push boundaries and exhibit their work in a dynamic environment. Visitors can always expect bold, engaging art that challenges traditional ideas.
What truly makes Art Ark stand out is its commitment to ethical art practices. It partners exclusively with community-run, not-for-profit art centres. This ensures that artists benefit directly from the sale of their work. By doing this, Art Ark supports the communities behind the art. When you purchase art at Art Ark, you’re contributing to positive change.
Ensuring Ethical Practice
By supporting these ethical practices, Art Ark is helping to protect and celebrate Aboriginal art in an authentic and responsible way. The gallery’s dedication to supporting both established and emerging artists makes it a vital space in Launceston’s art scene. Through Art Ark visitors can rest assured that their art purchases are both meaningful and impactful, empowering artists while celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Aboriginal communities.
Art Ark is more than just a gallery—it’s a place where art and social responsibility meet, allowing visitors to enjoy and appreciate art while supporting positive change in the industry. Whether you’re an art lover, a collector, or someone new to the scene, Art Ark offers an exceptional experience that goes beyond just viewing art. It’s about being part of a movement that celebrates ethical and meaningful contributions to the world of contemporary art.
Why I Love Art Ark:
What truly draws me to Art Ark is this ethical commitment to showcasing Aboriginal art in a way that truly honors the artists and their communities. The gallery goes beyond just presenting art – it creates a platform that promotes social responsibility and transparency. Art Ark collaborates exclusively with community-run, not-for-profit art centres, ensuring that Aboriginal artists are supported in a meaningful way. This approach allows artists to directly benefit from the sale of their work, safeguarding their rights and protecting the integrity of their art.
Every exhibition at Art Ark is carefully curated to highlight the richness and diversity of Aboriginal art. Whether it’s traditional painting, multimedia installations, or contemporary digital art, the gallery provides a space for these works to be celebrated on their own terms. The focus on emerging Aboriginal artists is particularly important, as it provides new voices and fresh perspectives within the art world. Many of these artists go on to gain recognition, making significant contributions to the broader artistic community.
What sets Art Ark apart is its dedication to making ethical art purchasing both easy and impactful. They educate buyers about what to look for, ensuring that each purchase supports the artists in the right way. The gallery’s commitment to avoiding exploitation within the art world gives collectors the opportunity to contribute meaningfully, knowing their support is going directly to the artists and communities that deserve it most.
Art Ark is more than just a gallery; it’s a movement that works to ensure Aboriginal art is valued and respected in a way that aligns with the ethical standards it deserves. By visiting Art Ark, you’re not just witnessing exceptional art – you’re supporting an ethical, sustainable future for Aboriginal artists.
A History
Art Ark was established with the mission to provide an ethical and impactful platform for Aboriginal artists, focusing on the importance of community-led initiatives. It was founded to address the growing concern of artist exploitation in the art world, particularly within Aboriginal communities. From its inception, Art Ark has worked exclusively with community-run, not-for-profit art centres, ensuring that artists are directly supported and compensated for their work.
The gallery’s history is built on a foundation of collaboration, transparency, and education, with the aim of making art purchasing a meaningful and ethical experience. Over time, Art Ark has become a trusted space for contemporary Aboriginal art, fostering both emerging and established artists while creating a positive impact on the broader art market. By providing a direct link between artists and collectors, Art Ark has played a significant role in promoting Aboriginal art and ensuring it is treated with the respect and value it deserves.
What to Expect:
- Emerging Artists: Discover new talent and explore the work of mid-career artists at the forefront of the contemporary art world.
- Diverse Media: A mix of traditional and cutting-edge art forms, from painting to video installations and beyond.
- Community Engagement: Participate in events and workshops designed to engage audiences with the art on display.
Art Ark is perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the fresh and exciting energy of contemporary art. For more information, visit Art Ark.
5. Sawtooth ARI Gallery
Sawtooth ARI Gallery plays a crucial role in Launceston’s contemporary art scene. It’s an independent, artist-run space that provides emerging artists with vital exhibition opportunities. As an artist-run initiative, Sawtooth fosters a collaborative environment. This space encourages artists to experiment freely, offering them the chance to push the limits of their practices. The gallery is dedicated to promoting innovation, allowing artists to take creative risks and showcase their work in an open, supportive setting. Through its exhibitions, Sawtooth helps develop a stronger, more dynamic art community in Launceston. The space continuously nurtures artistic growth, making it an essential hub for contemporary art.
Why I Love Sawtooth ARI Gallery:
Sawtooth ARI stands out as an artist-run space that prioritizes the needs of artists while creating a strong community connection. The gallery focuses on experimental art, encouraging innovative approaches that challenge traditional notions of visual culture. Its ever-changing exhibitions ensure a fresh experience with each visit, offering new and exciting works to explore. I appreciate how Sawtooth continually pushes boundaries and provides an environment where creativity thrives.
The space is both intimate and dynamic, allowing for deeper connections between artists and visitors. Sawtooth’s collaborative atmosphere enables meaningful interactions, enriching the gallery experience. Whether it’s a solo exhibition or a group show, the gallery fosters an environment of creativity and dialogue, making it a truly unique space in Launceston’s art scene.
What to Expect:
- Emerging Talent: Sawtooth ARI focuses on showcasing the work of emerging and experimental artists from across Australia.
- Collaborative Environment: As an artist-run space, Sawtooth provides opportunities for artists to create and showcase work in a collaborative, non-commercial setting.
- Dynamic Exhibitions: Expect innovative and diverse exhibitions that challenge traditional artistic forms and foster creativity.
Sawtooth ARI is perfect for anyone interested in seeing raw, cutting-edge art and engaging with the local artistic community. You can explore more about Sawtooth ARI through their website.
Conclusion
Launceston’s art scene offers a rich tapestry of creativity, innovation, and cultural depth, and these five galleries—QVMAG, Design Tasmania, DaDa Museum, Art Ark, and Sawtooth ARI—are prime examples of the city’s dynamic artistic landscape. Each gallery provides something unique, from historical collections and innovative design to avant-garde experimental art. Together, they offer an opportunity to engage with both emerging and established artists while celebrating diverse artistic practices. A big thank you to these Launceston art galleries for all they do to nurture the art community in Launceston. Don’t miss out and take a trip to these galleries ASAP!
SVELTE acknowledges the palawa people as the traditional custodians of lutruwita and honors their elders, past and present.