Review: Brett Whiteley Studio

Zoom out. What’s this place all about?
For insight into one of Australia’s most talented contemporary artists, discover the home and studio of the late Brett Whiteley. Managed by the Art Gallery of New South Wales, this intimate converted warehouse in Surry Hills packs an emotional punch. Whiteley bought the former T-shirt factory in 1985 and lived here from 1987 to 1992 before his untimely death from a drug overdose. It's one of Sydney’s best-kept (free-to-visit) secrets.

Ye shall know them by their permanent collection: How was it?
Whiteley’s art spans multiple mediums: painting, sculpture, collage, and drawing. He is known for his bold use of color, including gorgeous ultramarine blue and orange in his depictions of palm-fringed Sydney Harbour. Be it a landscape, domestic interior, or self-portrait, his work often has a dreamy, psychedelic edge.

But also by their new shoes. How were the exhibits?
The ground floor hosts rotating exhibitions of Whiteley's work, focused on themes such as the beach, flora and fauna, or nudes. Upstairs, Whiteley’s atmospheric living room and studio are filled with his furniture and memorabilia, including art tools, sketchbooks, unfinished creations, photos, postcards, and graffiti-covered walls.

What did you make of the crowd?
Museumgoers tend to be serious about their art, not casual blow-ins, as you have to seek out this spot, which is generally uncrowded.

On the practical tip, how were facilities?
The gallery has seats if you need a breather. If you can’t manage the stairs up to the studio, ask to see photos of it.

Any guided tours worth trying?
The studio hosts poetry readings, music recitals, and drawing workshops.

Gift shop: obligatory, inspiring—or skip it?
A hole-in-the-wall gift shop by reception sells postcards, prints, books, and accessories, including graphic mugs and umbrellas.

Is the café worth a stop, or should we just plan on going elsewhere?
There’s no café but Bourke Street Bakery around the corner serves top-notch coffee, savories, and sweets. Brewtown Surry Hills café is also nearby.

Any advice for the time- or attention-challenged?
The studio can be enjoyed in under an hour, so suits culture vultures with a short attention span. Visit Wendy’s Secret Garden, created by Whiteley’s wife and muse in Lavender Bay, for more inspo.