The Art Gallery of New South Wales has a prominent location within The Domain and right across the way from the Royal Botanic Gardens. If you are in the area, pop in for a look, as the entrance fee is free. They are open late until 9pm on Wednesdays.
The design of the original neoclassical building seems like the product of an uncomfortable relationship shared between the architects Walter Liberty Vernon and John Horbury Hunt over the span of years from 1896 to 1909. Later modern additions (opening in 1970 and in 1988) designed by architect Andrew Anderson essentially doubled the gallery space of the institution. The architecture of the entire complex is not particularly memorable, but this quality definitely defers to the artworks on display.
The Art Gallery of New South Wales naturally features works by Australian artists, but they have decent collections from European artists as well. There are also galleries devoted to temporary exhibitions, Asian arts and contemporary works.
During my visit I was able to catch a free performance by a local Aborigine in the Yiribana Gallery, which is on the lowest level of the museum. This space features works culled from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. The gentleman performed on the mysteriously distinctive didgeridoo, and he spun a few amusing anecdotes while creating various sounds with his instrument. This experience shared by a handful of visitors sitting on portable museum seats seemed very Australian and very authentic.
Step out onto the Sculpture Terrace, which is outdoors and offers a few decent views of the surrounding areas. There are a few tables for a coffee or a light snack.