Institute of Modern Art
Delve into Brisbane’s burgeoning arts scene in “The Judy,” where you can see the latest exhibits at one of Australia’s oldest independent art galleries.
Browse the latest works by Australian and international artists, attend a lecture about creating or interpreting art or see a performance in the courtyard of the Institute of Modern Art (IMA) in central Fortitude Valley.
IMA is part of the Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Arts, better known locally as “The Judy.” With a history dating back to 1975, the institute has nearly half a century of promoting modern art under its belt. Over time, IMA has supported thousands of artists by displaying their work and connecting them with wider audiences.
The bright white gallery of the IMA is like an empty canvas that tells a different story with each new exhibit. Check the museum’s website to see which artists or themes feature during your stay. The website also has an online shop where you can purchase unframed artworks from emerging artists and listen to podcasts from the gallery’s regular IMA Talks.
The best day to visit IMA is Saturday. Join a free tour of the exhibits with the staff, the curators or a special guest. Sign up for a hands-on workshop or watch a documentary or film screening. While not all events suit children, they are regularly invited to get creative during special events. Teenagers can join the Art Club and learn how to paint, sculpt, write or perform.
The gallery of the Institute of Modern Art is located on the second floor of the Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Arts in Fortitude Valley. Entry is free. IMA is open during the afternoons, except on Sundays and Mondays. Each first Thursday of the month, the gallery stays open until the mid evening.
Make the most of the parking deal between The Judy and the nearby Secure-A-Spot Parking garage by booking a space online, because metered street parking spots are expensive and fill fast in this lively area. To save money, purchase a public transportation card and hop on a bus or take the train to the nearby Fortitude Valley train station. You can also walk the short distance from the city center to Fortitude Valley.