MGA is recognised as one of Australia’s leading public galleries promoting excellence, access and education within the visual arts.

An initiative of the City of Monash, the MGA opened in 1990.

Located in Wheelers Hill, (download map and directions or GPS link) MGA is a key cultural facility and a popular destination for art and photography enthusiasts from across Melbourne, attracting over 53,000 visitors in 2003—2004.

The Architecture & Park

Designed by internationally-renowned architect, Harry Seidler, MGA is a fine example of contemporary Australian architecture. Seidler's building combines modernist methodology with organic elements that give the building a sculptural form in its own right.

In 2002, MGA underwent a major redevelopment by Melbourne-based architects, Sanderson Cox, which doubled the size of the building whilst remaining true to the original design.

Situated in landscaped grounds with stunning views of the Dandenong Ranges, MGA is located on a landmark site once occupied by an early homestead. The Gallery is nestled at the base of the original garden and majestic pines, oak and fruit trees form a canopy over the Impressions garden, which is carpeted with bluebells and irises in spring.

A recently established Sculpture Park enables visitors to enjoy their art experience both inside and outside the Gallery.

The Collection

Boasting a nationally significant collection of Australian photography, the Gallery's permanent collection comprises over 2,000 works illustrating the development and evolution of the photographic medium in Australia.

The remarkable breadth of MGA's photography collection allows us to reflect on the multiple roles of photography - as a medium of communication and artistic expression, as a documenter of life, and as a medium that occupies a vital and central place in contemporary culture.

Exhibitions

MGA mounts around 20 exhibitions a year in three spaces - the Wilbow Gallery, the Special Exhibitions Gallery and the Focus Gallery.

This constantly changing and diverse exhibition program ranges from historical to contemporary and local to international in a wide range of media including photography, fine art, craft and design.

The Gallery also presents works from its dynamic collection to a national audience through touring exhibitions.

> download Focus Gallery call for proposals

> download Focus Gallery submission proposal

Events

A range of innovative and stimulating public programs and special events are held in conjunction with exhibitions, including artist talks, guided tours for schools and community groups, and concerts.

A fun-filled and interactive range of children's activities are also available and a great way for your child to discover art and experiment with their creativity.

Friends of MGA

The Friends of MGA Inc. is a large and diverse group of enthusiasts dedicated to supporting the continued growth of MGA and encouraging an interest in the visual arts.