Qagoma

Qagoma, the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art, is a cultural powerhouse on the Brisbane River. Two striking buildings – one a classic 1970s brutalist gallery, the other a sleek contemporary wing – house an outstanding collection of Australian and international art, with a strong focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander works and art from the Asia-Pacific region. The riverside location, sculpture-filled forecourt, and the lively GOMA café make it a place where you could easily spend a whole day.

Highlights & What to See

• Queensland Art Gallery (QAG): The older building features the magnificent Watermall, a long reflecting pool lined with artworks, and galleries showcasing historical Australian art, Indigenous art, and the remarkable Josephine Ulrick and Win Schubert Galleries with rotating exhibitions.
• Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA): A stunning contemporary space with soaring ceilings and glass walls. Don't miss the permanent display of the Gallery's contemporary collection, plus major temporary exhibitions that often push boundaries.
• Riverfront Sculpture Garden: Wandering the grounds between the two buildings reveals large-scale sculptures by artists like Henry Moore and Ai Weiwei, with sweeping views of the Brisbane River and the Story Bridge.
• Children's Art Centre: A world-class interactive space where kids (and adults!) can create their own artworks inspired by current exhibitions – it's a highlight for families.
• GOMA Café & Bar: Overlooking the river, this is one of Brisbane's best spots for a coffee, a glass of wine, or a meal made from local produce. The menu changes with the exhibitions.

Suggested Time to Spend

Budget at least half a day to explore both buildings properly. If you're an art lover, you could easily fill a full day, especially if you pause for lunch at the café and spend time in the Children's Art Centre. To pace yourself, start at QAG in the morning when it's quieter, cross the riverfront walkway to GOMA after lunch, and finish with a drink on the terrace as the sun sets.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• South Bank: Just a short stroll along the river, this precinct has the man-made Streets Beach, lush parklands, and the Wheel of Brisbane – perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
• Brisbane City Botanic Gardens: A peaceful green escape right next to QAG, with beautiful lawns, a bamboo grove, and views of the river.
• Kurilpa Point & the Kurilpa Bridge: Walk across this solar-powered pedestrian bridge to the city centre or explore the West End's eclectic food and art scene.
• New Farm & the Brisbane Powerhouse: A 10-minute drive or ferry ride away, this riverside arts centre hosts theatre, comedy, and markets, with great dining options.

Please check official sources for current details.