Since its establishment in 1981 Canberra Contemporary has become one of Australia’s leading independent contemporary visual arts organisations, bringing fresh ideas and bold directions in art to broad and engaged audiences. Working with artists both inside and outside of the ACT, we provide opportunities for artists working across a range of disciplines to create and show new, ambitious and daring work. As a space for collaboration, consultation and conversation, Canberra Contemporary fosters opportunities for emerging and established artists to experiment and exhibit.

Canberra Contemporary is a member of the national network of Contemporary Arts Organisations Australia (CAOA), which are leading centres of innovation that test new ideas and directions for contemporary visual arts. Our annual program of exhibitions, performances, artists’ talks, public programs and publications provides a responsive environment in which artists can share work within the context of current national and international practice. Exhibitions and related public programs run over two spaces at Canberra Contemporary: our curated main gallery space in Parkes and Platform, a satellite project space in Manuka.

Canberra Contemporary has played a significant role in contributing to our city’s cultural landscape for more than four decades. Building on this rich history, we stand poised on the brink of a new era, developing exciting artistic projects that place us in a broader national and international context, together with a far-reaching strategic plan and vision into the future. Read our Constitution here and some of our history here.