Overview

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, MGA opened in 1990. MGA's mission is to promote excellence, access and education within the visual arts.

Located in Wheelers Hill, MGA is a key cultural facility and a popular destination for art and photography enthusiasts from across Melbourne.

Entry to MGA is free.

The architecture and sculpture park

MGA is situated on a parkland affording spectacular views of Melbourne's south-east. We acknowledge the traditional owners of this beautiful place and pay our respects to their elders both past and present.

Designed by internationally renowned architect Harry Seidler, MGA is a fine example of contemporary Australian architecture.

Situated in landscaped grounds with stunning views of the Dandenong Ranges, MGA is located on a landmark site once occupied by an early homestead. A 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 1500 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 important collection to a national audience through travelling exhibitions.

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.