Housing the best of Australian art, this impressive gallery is always worth a visit. A wonderful showcase of traditional and modern art. There are multimedia and interactive displays, sculptures, textile works, indigenous art and most of the well-known Australian artists since European settlement. Of course the lion's share of the collection remains on the St Kilda Road site. The National Gallery of Victoria is Australia's oldest and most visited art gallery. Here are some photos taken at the Ian Potter Centre at Federation Square.

Unfortunately, this fine gallery is stuck on one corner of the awful Federation Square, opposite Flinders Street station. Also going by the name NGV (National Gallery of Victoria), it houses significant paintings from the early days, showing development of a distinct local style. This period of Australian art can stand beside the best in the world, with the standout being Tom Roberts. But the gallery has also been conquered by radicals, who couldn't help but constantly reminded the visitor that colonial art came at the expense of destruction of the aboriginal culture. In a triumph of political correctness, all galleries (the standing galleries progress through time) include representative aboriginal art (or artifacts) of the period and a perfect balance between male and female artist's work. Some of the more recent works are interesting, but with pretentious descriptions, and the Modern Art is just pretentious (like it is everywhere). Well worth having a look.

Staff is very friendly and helpful. My brother got trapped in the disabled toilet for half an hour and they very kindly called the fire brigade who rolled a screwdriver under the door to him. 10/10 service, would recommend!

Lovely architecture, something for everyone here. Not all galleries to our taste, but most exhibits are thought provoking and interesting.

Nice museum and gallery of contemporary art and design 👍 it’s free and it’s not crowded! We reallly like it here. Thank you museum 👍

This gallery is a bit hidden and a lot of locals even are unaware of its existence. It's quite big for a free gallery (3 levels) with at least one or two pretty cool exhibits at every rotation. Not as big as the main NGV, but still decent. Toilets available. Accessible. Cafe downstairs.

As a visitor from Queensland the way Melbourne embraces and incorporates the Arts so fully into the heartbeat of the city was a joy to behold. This is one example among many; first rate facility, outstanding exhibits thoughtfully curated and completely accessible and free to all. Melbourne, you are blessed!

Amazing place even for kids (starting from 6-7 y.o.) The exposition is very diversified with various art types presented. The entry is free, the building itself is beautiful.

Enjoyed the Melbourne Now! Exhibition- a wide range of traditional art, Pottery, textiles, installations etc. All laid out in spacious rooms with respectful staff & central in town for traffic hubs, well worth a visit.

This place was truely amazing even for the ones who doesn’t like art. It is free to enter and one can get a taste of Australian Art in various forms right from the times before the colonisation until today’s century. My personal favourite was Joseph Brown’s Collection, particularly the “Continuity of Line”, which also carrier a deep meaning with it. Apart from it, the Indigenous collection gives insights of the true Australian culture and land. If you’re a tourist, add this place to your checklist.

Australia Portraiture is happening at the moment, I’m glad I was here witnessing the best Australian artworks. Human creatures are amazing, starting with simple ideas to very detailed artwork. I believe it’s how human beings will recognise themselves. It’s start how and what you can create….

The Ian Potter Centre is amazingly curated and put together. The first nations artworks in the Wurrdha Marra exhibition are interesting and wide ranging. But the real treat of this centre of Australian Art is the second floor where the permanent collection is displayed. Personally, the 19th century paintings didn't do much for me, but the exhibition gets incredibly impressive midway through the 20th century. The rooms are curated by time, style or even colour pallette and has been one of the most fascinating art museum visits I've had in Australia.

Three stories of galleries each rather big. If you're an art lover or have an eye for details, allocate a good two to three hours and grab some snacks. There is a cafe in the premises also. The entry is free and this is a 2 min walk from Flinders Station in CBD

Here is another batch of viewing art collection. It is more on contemporary art, using modern techniques and resources. Aside from artworks, Shaun Gladwell: Passing Electrical Storm was available to the public. It was new, unique and relaxing for me. Basically, this place gives another kind of perspective from the artist of today.

Art is more contemporary which is not really my area of interest. Nonetheless it was a good visit and expose us to Australian artists' works. Best of all, entry is free and conveniently located. Seats around the gallery are mainly very low sofas. Very difficult for the elderly to sit and get up from. The gallery should consider getting some more elderly friendly seats.

The Ian Potter Centre feels like you've discovered a hidden gem in the heart of Melbourne's Federation Square. Even as an avid fan and visitor of the main NGV I had no idea this existed until recently. I went on a Saturday morning and felt like I had the space to myself. The Centre is home to a stunning collection of Australian art, contemporary sculptures, iconic furniture & fashion. As is typical of the NGV and its spaces, the staging is world class. The exhibitions are beautifully curated, and the works are both thought-provoking and moving. I was also impressed by the Centre's architecture. The building is light and airy, with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer thoughtful windows with stunning views of the city. The Ian Potter Centre is a great place to spend an afternoon after lunch. It's not too big, so you can easily see everything in a few hours. All of this free to enter, we are so lucky in Melbourne to have the NGV.

The display of Australian art is amazing. The detail and composition of the art work will be memorable. Its good to see the paintings have been painted from local areas, such as Beaumoris, Boxhill, Mentone and parts of Sydney. I'm disappointed how much our country has been destroyed over the years by economic development. The art work I saw today I have wanted to view for many years.

Amazing place! I spent over an hour in the Gallery and only covered half of it. I plan on returning soon when I have more time. So many awesome pieces of art here and free to enter! Definitely worth visiting. The big moon exhibit was amazing, not too sure how long it is staying as it visits different places for a set time. No-one seemed to know. It has been there for a week so far. Take your partner, parents, kids, anyone! It was the highlight of my day!

I went to visit the exhibition to see the school kids artwork and it really is incredible just how much work and dedication they have put into their art, especially given the time in which their work was produced during lockdown.

I had a very good time visiting The Ian Potter Centre! At the moment an exhibition 'The Australian Impressionists' is on, a very enlightening experience and we'll worth the time spent looking at some well known and not so works of art.

What I love about this place is that each room contains not just paintings but also objects and furniture of the era. It's a lovely way of experiencing the art. Some of the rooms felt a little too cavernous though and not a lot of seats to just sit and admire the art.

The Ian Potter Gallery is an annex of the National Gallery of Victoria. The gallery has a good collection of Postmodern Australian art (1945 -2000) and earlier. This includes Tom Robert's Shearers and a striking Streeton pastoral landscape. If you are coming from overseas, you will need to visit the Ian Potter annex to see these. (I don't understand why the Postmodern Australian art isn't at the Postmodern Roy Grounds building - the National Gallery, and the European art moved to the annex?)

Visiting the Melbourne Now exhibition at the NGV Ian Potter Gallery was an inspiring experience. The exhibition celebrates new and ambitious local art and design, with over 200 contemporary projects and events across all three levels of NGV Australia. From fashion and jewellery to painting, sculpture, photography, architecture, digital media and more, there is something for everyone to appreciate. The exhibition offers a unique opportunity to take the pulse on where art is directing us. It's a vast, sprawling collection that seems to burst out of its architectural framework. There are many things not to miss at this blockbuster exhibit - from free talks and tours to critical conversations featuring NGV curators and more. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit today but would love to see more photography in the future!

Highly recommend a visit, it is a true experience from the time you arrive outside the building there are fun whirly gigs to rock n roll in. Inspiring Australian art work. Easy access into the building close to transport & soaking up the Melbourne Aussie culture.

An absolutely insightful, meaningful and innovative museum showing Australian art from the 18th century to the 21st century with an emphasis on indigenous aboriginal artists. The exhibitions and art works provoke conversation and helps to bring a step closer towards dialogue. The centre feels modern and is quite comfortable with plenty of staff to guide you and direct you to where you need to go. The galleries are well spaced out and doesn’t feel rushed. Adequate toilet facilities on every level. And best of all the admission is free!

We visited the Melbourne Now exhibit which was wonderfully curated by the most talented artists in Melbourne and beyond. The galleries are easy to navigate and makes for a great visit for when you're waiting for your flight as the cloak room accommodates for all your luggage.

Wonderful art gallery. My ONLY complaint was the lighting in some areas. The Longstaff painting 'Sirens' was overlit which caused it to reflect and and you were unable to make out the detail in the painting.

A fantastic gallery with a lot of amazing art pieces from indigenous artists - really bringing back the culture and the debate about colonialism and its effects on local culture. Plan to spend a few hours there - it’s really fascinating!

A great gallery that has lots to offer. Centrally located, the work on display here showcases Australian art. A great opportunity to see some amazing art

There isn't a better National Gallery anywhere in the world! Great location. Distinctive modern architecture built well before it's time. Close to Birrarung Marr and Cafes and restaurants galore. The exhibitions, facilities and design are outstanding. It's proximity to the Koorie Heritage Centre and Gallery make it a double banger. Terrific shows in both! And then of course the Australian Open was on when I visited and the place was just buzzing with people sitting in the deckchairs watching the tennis on the big screen in the Plaza. What an amazing place.

We explore the latest exhibition featuring Melbourne artists, and it was a great. There was lots to keep the whole family entertained for a good hour.

Visited an Indigenous Art Exhibition on a hot summers day in Melbourne. The venue is always a joy to emerge yourself in art whilst the temps soar outside. Friendly staff. Lovely experience. Art was inspirational too.

I love the winding rooms that guide you through the exhibit. You never know what is going to be around the next corner. There did seem to be a little bit of confusion between the NGV buildings, I noticed a few people had gone to the one in southbank and first before finding their way to the Ian Potter centre.

extensive art from different cultures and histories

Great centre of indigenous culture and artifects. A great place to spend an afternoon, there is a cafe within the centre and the place is easily accessible and spacious. Entry is free and an excellent escape for travellers away for the outside elements.

It is a bit more of a hidden gallery that you tend to forget about visiting until something big is on display. Has lots of Free advents and is in a great location of Fed Square and ACCMI

Great exhibition

The Ian Potter Centre at the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne is a must-visit for art lovers. The collection is extensive, with a range of contemporary and historical Australian art, as well as a great selection of Indigenous art. The gallery is well-laid out and easy to navigate, with each exhibit having plenty of space to appreciate the works on display. One of the highlights is the Indigenous art exhibit, which showcases a rich variety of styles and mediums. It is evident that the curators have made an effort to respectfully present the works and the stories behind them. The contemporary art exhibits are also a delight, with works from some of Australia's most prominent artists. The building itself is an impressive feat of architecture, with its modern design and use of light and space. The gallery is situated in Federation Square, making it easily accessible by public transport and a great starting point to explore the city. The Ian Potter Centre at the NGV is a world-class art museum that does an excellent job of representing the diversity of Australian art. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this is definitely a must-see attraction in Melbourne.

Architecturally I loved it ?? The facade looks great

(Translated by Google) So cute ! I recommend going through the internal gallery and having a drink inside! But if you do not have time, it is not essential to know (Original) Muy lindo ! Recomiendo recorrer la galería interna y tomar algo dentro! Pero si no llegas a tener tiempo, no es indispensable para conocer

Very nice museum. Interesting collections and the first time i wanted to listen to the guides because the guy was pretty funny and informative

Definitely a must if you want to lean about Australian artists. Old, modern, European, Aboriginal art is all covered. Free to enter. Just go and discover...

A variety of temp expos, paintings and photography of mostly local artists

Best Australian art gallery and free

Amazing exhibitions, engaging content, great staff (except the cloakroom they were not super friendly) cool building.

Always worth a visit.

Artistic interior and good selection of art.

Went here to see the Melbourne Now exhibition and it really had something for everyone, traditional artworks, video installations, sculptures and more. Had look around level 1 then went up to level 2 to view artworks in the Australian section, which were spectacular. Also saw a couple of beautiful light installations and number of interesting costumes / outfits. And yes up to level 3 for more art and in process must have climbed 200 stairs all up, so got in some exercise as well! Was in a hurry as had tickets for Exhibition so I think I missed a couple of Melbourne Now artworks. However I did have time to visit gift shop where I brought book on Beaumaris Modern (oh how I love those modernist homes) and a print of the famous John Brack painting, Collins Street. Now interestingly the A3 print comes in a plastic sleeve with cardboard handle, perfect for carrying and so much better than rolled up poster, however I'd brought before I'd seen some of Melbourne Now and I was told by security that would have to check into cloakroom. So something NGV sells with a handle you're not actually allowed to carry! Good grief. Anyway luckily husband had seen all he wanted so he held on to it outside while I raced around everywhere else. As Banksy says you should "Exit through the Gift Shop". Note in one spectacular display of incompetence (by me) tried to exit building through a door, closest to Flinders Street, only for the handle to snap off as it was locked. OK in my defence you couldn't tell it was locked, there was no signage and excuse me it was a door to the outside.

Always has a great variety of Art on display. Check web site for current events, part of the NGV but a separate building, entry off Fedaration Square, on City side of River where as NGV is across river from City.

There's loads of great stuff to look at here. From traditional landscape paintings, to surrealism and sculpture. Most of it is absolutely free too!

Great Pieces. Some super interesting and fun interactive rooms even for ppl who aren’t huge art fans. Excellent (and free) stepping point for getting into modern art

The gallery has a wonderful permanent collection of significant Australian artwork. They regularly curate special exhibitions and interactive installations. Centrally situated in Federation Square it’s in the best heart of Melbourne.

Allot ample time to view all three floors of the gallery. Mind blowing collection. A feast for the eyes and the senses.

While studying art in school I’ve found a fascination and going there gallery even built my passion for the art

What a fantastic addition to the NGV art collection this is. The Joseph Brown Collection is just amazing. So diverse.

This is the Australian-content counterpart to the National Gallery of Victoria, so if you want to check out the Aussie art stuff, here's your destination ?? Apart from the Traditionalist section you're probably familiar with, there's also an Indigenous art section that made me smile (a good counterpoint to the other collection ?) and a selection of temporary exhibitions on the upper floor. Must do!

I love this art gallery. It has so many gems. Beautiful art and great exhibition

A thoughtful and yet provocative collection with a mix of tradition and modern art from indigenous and new Australians. Everything from the current political landscape to the philosophical staples of death and truth are represented in interesting ways, with the artists sharing their exploration of the bug issues.

Fantastic collection of past and present Australian art and Indigenous art. Free entry and lots to see. Excellent.

A rich collection of indigenous Australian art and modern art installations. A must see for aboriginal art lovers.

Very good exhibits when I went and a lot of it was free. There were about 3 floors of different exhibits from different eras that I could look at for free. The store was very nice as well and had some great pieces of merch that related to the exhibits.

Free entry, lots of interesting things, one of the must visit for families

Great gallery and love the free exhibitions that run there. Been a few times and it never disappoints. There is always some thing new and interesting to see.

Beautiful Gallery and Exhibition of Civilization

Typical art centre exhibitions, some okay but mainly not much interest for normal artists.

Always something of world class to see. A beautiful place.

(Translated by Google) Rude frontliners (Original) Rude frontliners

(Translated by Google) Simply splendid, especially the abstract and arboriginal section. It is not the museum one expects, it is huge. In 3 hours I was unable to visit it all and I had to leave otherwise the shops closed. The internal shop is also very beautiful. (Original) Semplicemente splendido, sopratutto la sezione astratta e arborigena. Non è il museo che uno si aspetta, è enorme. In 3 ore non sono riuscito a visitarlo tutto e sono dovuto andare via altrimenti chiudevano i negozi. Molto, molto bello anche il negozio interno.

Great gallery with a wide variety of exhibitions on display. From photography, to painting, to sculpture. Well worth a visit if you're in the area.

(Translated by Google) Cultural space that brings together mainly works by Australian artists. The museum is divided into two different buildings, one with only Australian works, The Ian Potter Center (The Atrium), and another where international works are found. The works are varied and include paintings, drawings, photographs, sculptures and other artistic manifestations, such as architecture and fashion. Among some names of artists that are part of the permanent collection of the international area of ​​the museum, are Camille Pissarro, Claude Monet and Rembrandt. (Original) Espaço cultural que reúne, principalmente, obras de artistas australianos. O museu está dividido em dois edifícios diferentes, um deles apenas com obras australianas, o The Ian Potter Centre (The Atrium), e outro onde são encontradas obras internacionais. As obras são variadas e incluem pinturas, desenhos, fotografias, esculturas e outras manifestações artísticas, como de arquitetura e moda. Entre alguns nomes de artistas que fazem parte da coleção permanente da área internacional do museu, estão Camille Pissarro, Claude Monet e Rembrandt.

Good places

Amazing gallery, must see in Melbourne.

Viewing Top Arts every year is always a highlight and this year was no exception. NGV continues to delight with its well fresh exhibitions and curated collection of works.

(Translated by Google) It was the best gallery in Melbourne. (Original) 멜버른 전시중에 가장 좋았던 갤러리예요.

I can enjoy the amazing art works for free.

A great art space with unique, Australia-focused exhibitions.

(Translated by Google) It's nice to come in with embryos instead (Original) יפה ..להכנס עם עוברים במקום

Stunning gallery in a building with bespoke architecture

Very interesting exhibitions however my preference is Heidelberg School artists!

Pretty. Yes. Art.

Australian art - some excellent paintings in a very contemporary setting. You could easily spend the day here. It's great to see the art together in one place rather than mixed up with the international art - it's a really good idea to have 2 different galleries on different sites. A very interesting visit.

(Translated by Google) Avant-garde architecture and large spaces. (Original) Arquitectura vanguardista y grandes espacios.

It was such a positive and awesome experience viewing contemporary art from the Aboriginal Peoples and Cultures. Art from this Aboriginal Peoples perspective is rarely seen in to this extent in mainstream art galleries. It would be positive cultural experience for all people to see the trauma depicted in their art.

I didn’t know you can see more outside of NGV. Great place to visit and know the Australian artists.

Love this place. Fabulous portraiture exhibition. Can't believe how lucky we are to see such an amazing exhibition for free. Thank you so much. Only thing...people shouldn't be allowed to bring tiny toddlers to run around yelling in this amazing venue. Not a playground. Takes away from the experience.

Very satisfying and stimulating. Some great art works capturing people, places and events from certain times in Australian history.

Really great art gallery featuring artist from Australia or who once resided in Australia,some really nice collections and best of all it's free,

Nice place

I cried in front of the portrait of Gill Hicks. Such a strong woman. Look into this exhibition with sneaky portraits and also laugh with Vincent Namatjira. He’s good fun. The gallery is worth the trip.

lovely place

Good museum, you can easily spend few hours in there. Free gallery in level 2 and 3.

if you love building architect and art then this place the place to go

Disappointing and dull. Uninspiring. The difference was very stark when contrasting Ian Potter after a morning spent in the enthralling NGV and later the wonderful ACMI. I think I was one of three people in the entire gallery at 4pm. Hard not to see why. Although one of the placards declaring Swan Hill to be in 'western Victoria' was amusing (ironically representing how out of touch the gallery is). I felt cheated out of some time on my holiday, enough to blast off this review.

We needed a whole day to appreciate the huge amount of works displayed in the exhibit.

Will definitely go back to see the exhibit again. Many lovely portraits and landscapes.

(Translated by Google) Excellent art center (Original) Excellent art centre

I enjoyed the exhibition and was glad it was shown at the Potter Gallery. The Potter Gallery is very convenient to visit from my home.

Fantastic collection will in a beautiful, contemporary building.