Golden Vale

Situated in the Southern Highlands, Golden Vale is a grand c1870 sandstone house surrounded by graceful English-style gardens and sweeping parkland. It’s also home to a significant art collection. Former owners, the Hon. Geoffrey Keighley OAM and his wife Karin Keighley, gifted Golden Vale and their collection of art to the National Trust in 2005. Well-travelled and with interests ranging from sport to gardening, literature and politics, their varied passions are reflected in the diverse collection of works they acquired.

Spanning the early colonial period through to contemporary art, the eclectic collection includes works by prominent Australian artists such as landscape painter John Perceval, Pro Hart and Fred Williams; one of the country’s most acclaimed artists and print makers, whose influential works transformed Australia landscape painting.

Another highlight is a striking still life painting by William Buelow Gould. Originally born in Liverpool, the artist was transported to Australia as a convict in 1827, later becoming one of the most important artists of the early colonial period. This unexpected yet captivating painting of fish has recently been meticulously restored thanks to funds raised in the 2024 Collections appeal.

Don’t miss your chance to see the Keighleys’ unique art collection in person at The Art of Golden Vale event from 12 – 26 July. Your visit will include a fascinating guided tour, as well as morning or afternoon tea served in the charming conservatory, and access to the gardens. Book your tickets.

S.H. Ervin Gallery

S.H. Ervin Gallery is housed in the historic setting of the National Trust Centre on Observatory Hill and is one of Sydney’s leading public art institutions. Drawing a cult following for its thought-provoking exhibitions and engaging talks and events, the gallery is characterised by its unique exploration of the richness and diversity of Australian art.

Particularly renowned for celebrating and promoting the important contribution of Australian women artists, each year the gallery exhibits finalists’ works from the Portia Geach Memorial Award – Australia’s most prestigious art prize for portraiture by women artists.

Another much-anticipated feature of the art scene, the Salon des Refuses showcases an alternative selection of equally brilliant works not chosen for display in the official Archibald and Wynne Prizes. Critically acclaimed and with an eclectic selection on show, this yearly curation has become a major drawcard, attracting crowds of all ages.

Make the most of your visit and book a guided exhibition tour to learn about the highlights of Australian art, then head to the Trust Café next door for a delicious light meal. Bookings are advised.

Retford Park

James Fairfax AC, was one of Australia’s foremost art collectors and philanthropists, so it is fitting that his former home remains a celebration of art. Start your visit with a stroll around the landscaped grounds of Retford Park, where you will find stunning sculptures by Australian and international artists. Take a moment to stop in the ‘garden room’ to admire Euphoric Angels – a spectacular bronze work by Inge King, who was a foundational female figure in non-figurative sculpture in Australia.

Inside the grand Victorian-Italianate villa explore significant artworks curated by James. Working without a professional curator, he selected works based on his personal expertise and elegant taste, to create one of Australia’s most notable private collections. A renowned patron of the arts, his gifts and long-term loans made a lasting impact on Australian art. As you make your way through the rooms, see if you can spot two remarkable works, The countrywoman by Russell Drysdale and The anteroom by celebrated figurative artist Charles Backman. Thanks to a partnership with the National Gallery of Australia, via the Australian Government’s Sharing the National Collection initiative, these two prominent works are now hanging once more in their former home.

Norman Lindsay Gallery

Set amongst spectacular bushland in the Blue Mountains, on Dharug and Gundungurra Country, the sandstone cottage that was the former home of prolific and controversial Australian artist Norman Lindsay is now the centre of a gallery exhibiting his works alongside a changing line-up of inspiring and thought-provoking exhibitions.

Norman and his wife, celebrated printmaker and model, Rose Soady purchased the original cottage in 1912 and surrounding 42 acres and set about turning it into an artistic haven they named ‘Springwood.’

Spanning the breadth of oil paintings, etchings and illustrations, explore some of Norman’s most famous works on permanent display, then immerse yourself in the creative world of an artist as you visit his painting studio. Filled with Norman’s brushes, canvases and etching studio, plus printing press – it is here he created one of his most memorable works, the beloved children’s story, The Magic Pudding.

After visiting the gallery, step outside for a walk in the landscaped Roman style gardens featuring fountains and evocative sculptures of nymphs, satyrs and sphinxes.

Experience the art of the National Trust

From sculptural gardens to exciting exhibitions and unique collection items, there’s so much to experience at our special places. View the latest exhibition programs to see what’s on near you.