While one Ballarat gallery is temporarily closed, many other local offerings remain open for your viewing pleasure.
From March 2025 until early 2026, the Art Gallery of Ballarat is shut for extensive building upgrades.
These works will help the gallery to secure impressive international exhibitions plus display more works from its permanent collection.
But did you know the historic Lydiard St gallery is just one part of Ballarat's booming arts scene?
They might be small in size but these 5 boutique Ballarat galleries showcase a diverse mix of works by established and emerging artists from across the region.
Backspace Gallery
43 Mair St, Ballarat
Introducing Ballarat's Backspace Gallery.
The Art Gallery of Ballarat has just unveiled this new off-site gallery space in nearby Mair St.
Backspace is a celebration of local and emerging artists.
Its first exhibition – Next Gen 2025 – is an annual showcase of top notch VCE artworks.
Discover the issues, ideas and causes that are inspiring our next generation of young artists.
Next Gen 2025 is on show from 15 March until 11 May.
Perridak Arts
214 Mair St, Ballarat
Perridak Arts is an Aboriginal owned and operated gallery located on the land of the Wadawurrung people of the Kulin Nation.
It supports local First Nations artists and craftspeople to not only exhibit their art but also use their talents to connect to their culture.
Step inside Perridak ('platypus' in Wadawurrung language) and be immersed in the soothing sounds and smells of “Being on Country” while you delve into First Nation's culture.
The Unicorn Collection
131 Sturt St, Ballarat
This former gold rush hotel is now home to a curated collection of high-end artworks by regional Victorian creatives.
The Unicorn Collection functions as both an exhibition venue and retail space.
Browse collectible works crafted by seasoned artisans and admire the exceptional craftsmanship on show at what was once the Unicorn Hotel.
Ross Creek Gallery
183 Post Office Rd, Smythes Creek
Ross Creek Gallery is the baby of acclaimed Ballarat ceramicist Ruby Pilven.
This contemporary exhibition space features ceramic and 2D artworks by Ruby and her mum, Janine Ronaldson, along with rotating exhibitions by local artists.
You'll find the gallery nestled in serene bushland next to Ruby's mudbrick studio on the outskirts of Ballarat.
The Old Butchers Shop Gallery
112 Seymour St, Ballarat
This neighbourhood gem is a work of art in itself.
The exterior of the former corner butcher is decked out with red brick, black and white chequered tiles plus original handpainted signs for everything from choice veal to lean bacon.
Inside this time capsule you'll find pressed tin ceilings, weatherboard walls and decorative glass windows.
The Old Butchers Shop Gallery shines a spotlight on the diversity and talent of Ballarat creatives, with a different artist exhibiting each month.
Glorious galleries
People & place
Why Ballarat’s First Nations culture is richer than gold
First Peoples continue to inspire through both new and age-old traditional art forms and story-sharing experiences.
Enchanting exhibitions
Surprises at every turn
Creative energy that's turning heads
Ballarat’s artists, makers and entrepreneurs are busy drawing inspiration from the city’s rich history and their own unique experiences to offer something fresh and unexpected.
