New UQ Art Museum
Source: https://about.uq.edu.au/strategy-values/infrastructure-investment/new-uq-art-museum Parent: https://about.uq.edu.au/faculties-institutes/bel/about/contact
UQ is investing in a purpose-built art gallery within the iconic Forgan Smith Tower for exhibitions, contemporary installations, teaching, learning and research.
The University is investing in a purpose-built, architecturally designed art gallery for the UQ Art Museum, located in the iconic Forgan Smith Tower.
This investment will enhance the University’s cultural and events offering at St Lucia, to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the Mayne Bequest and the Art Museum’s 50th anniversary.
While the new gallery is scheduled to open in 2027, visitors can continue to engage with the UQ Art Museum by exploring the online collection, attending events throughout the year, and visiting other museums on campus.
As part of the project, new art storage facilities will be identified to ensure the safe care and conservation of the University’s collection.
Architect appointment
The Art Museum team is working with UQ’s Property and Facilities and specialist architects to inform the design.
BVN Architecture has been appointed to lead the design, bringing extensive global experience and a strong connection to UQ, having previously restored the University’s Brisbane City location in the heritage‑listed 308 Queen Street building.
The design will be led by BVN Principal Architect, Kevin O’Brien (Kaurareg and Meriam, and UQ alum), whose collaborative work spans artists, performers and cultural institutions.
O’Brien was the exhibition design consultant for 'kith and kin', the Golden Lion‑winning Venice Biennale installation by Kamilaroi and Bigambul artist Archie Moore, curated by Ellie Buttrose. He has also developed design work for shortlisted cultural schemes including the Gallery of South Australia (Adelaide), the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Gallery of Australia (Alice Springs), Ngurra (Canberra), and Powerhouse (Parramatta).
Art collection storage
As part of the Art Museum’s move from Mayne Hall, work is nearly complete to safely store the University’s art collection, with works being moved to dedicated facilities to ensure their conservation.
The University is also advancing plans for a long‑term, custom storage facility to support and safeguard its growing art collection.
Forgan Smith Tower restoration
Restoration work to the iconic Forgan Smith Tower commenced in late 2024, in consultation with heritage specialists to ensure the works meet the relevant standards and respects the building’s historic significance.
The multi-year project includes internal and external remediation works, as well as the integration of the new Art Museum. During this time, the Forgan Smith Tower will be fully decanted, and access will be restricted.
Managing construction impacts and maintaining safety
UQ and its contractors will aim to minimise disruption as much as possible. Updates will be provided as work progresses.
Supporting UQ Arts
This investment is part of UQ’s commitment to support the arts – supporting artists, enriching teaching and increasing public access to cultural experiences.
In recent years, UQ has restored the Avalon Theatre, built a new performance space in the Dr Mary Mahoney AO Amphitheatre, and installed an award-winning piece of public art: Sun Stadium.
Contact
For enquiries about planned works, email projectcomms@uq.edu.au.\