The Capital and Beyond: the Landscapes of Andrew Sayers: In association with Canberra Art Biennial and Barton ArtBox

THE CAPITAL AND BEYOND: The Landscapes of Andrew Sayers

Andrew Sayers AM (1957–2015) was one of Australia’s most influential art historians and cultural leaders. As Assistant Director of the National Gallery of Australia, inaugural Director of the National Portrait Gallery, and later Director of the National Museum of Australia, he played a significant role in shaping the nation’s understanding of Australian art. Alongside this distinguished public career, he developed a deeply personal and sustained painting practice. 

The Capital and Beyond traces Andrew Sayers’ journey through place—from the landscapes of Canberra, where he spent much of his distinguished public career, to the coastlines, mountains and plains that inspired his painting practice. Bringing together works from across the ACT, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia and the Northern Territory, the exhibition offers a rare insight into the private artistic vision of one of Australia’s foremost art historians and museum leaders.

Returning Andrew Sayers' work to Canberra, the city he called home and where he made his greatest contribution to Australia's cultural life, the exhibition presents an intimate selection of gouache works that reveal the artistic voice behind one of the nation's most influential museum leaders.

Barton ArtBox - 7 Young St, Canberra

12 September – 31 October 2026
Friday to Sunday | 11.00am – 5.00pm