All over our state, there’s a plethora of art to immerse yourself in throughout the year.
Whether you’re an art buff, or just looking for an excuse to take a road trip and explore the state, here are some events that will spark your imagination and ignite your creative spirit…
Dangerously Modern Exhibition May–September 2025,
Art Gallery of South Australia (AGSA)
Art and activism go hand-in-hand and the Dangerously Modern exhibition is a testament to that. This first-of-its-kind exhibition highlights the contributions of Australian female artists in shaping modernist movements across Europe from 1890 to 1940.
Featuring over 200 works, the exhibition showcases paintings, prints, sculptures and ceramics that challenge traditional notions of ambition and artistic success. In the wake of South Australia’s 130th anniversary of women’s suffrage, this exhibition is a fitting tribute to trailblazing female artists who defied societal expectations and redefined the art world.
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- Chris De Rosa, Under here my dreams are made of water, 2021, papier mâché, etching, giclee print, collage, wire, glass beads, sand, studio floor debris, pigment, polymer paint, wire, tape pu foam, spray paint, silk cord, rope, dimensions variable, approx. 300 x 300 x 300cm. Photo: Rosina Possingham.
South Australian Living Arts (SALA) Festival
August 2025, state-wide
When winter rolls around, South Australia’s art scene heats up! As the country’s largest visual arts festival, SALA transforms the entire state into an open gallery. With exhibitions popping up in cafes, wineries, public spaces and traditional galleries, this eclectic range of exhibitions showcases emerging and established artists alike.
The festival not only celebrates local talent but also encourages regional tourism, giving visitors the chance to road trip across the state in search of artistic delights.
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- Grace Crowley, born Cobbadah, New South Wales 1890, died Sydney 1979, Miss Gwen Ridley, 1930, Glen Riddle, Barraba, New South Wales, oil on canvas on board, 72.0 x 53.0cm, 87.2 x 68.5 x 5.5cm (frame); Purchased 1995 with the assistance of South Australian Government Grant, Art Gallery of South Australia, Adelaide.
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- Alison Rehfisch, born Woollahra, New South Wales 1900, died Pymble 1975, Oranges and lemons, c 1934, oil on canvas, 50.0 x 40.0cm stretcher, 63.0 x 52.7 x 4.5cm (frame); Purchased 1976, Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney, © Estate of Alison Rehfisch.
Country Arts SA
Year-round, regional SA
For nearly three decades, Country Arts SA has been bringing quality artistic experiences to regional South Australia. In 2025, they continue their commitment to celebrating local talent with a diverse line-up of exhibitions, performances and community-driven art projects. Highlights include Blak Country, a showcase of First Nations country music artists; and Saltbush Country, an ongoing exhibition featuring works by exceptional female First Nations artists.
With events in Whyalla, Goolwa, Murray Bridge, Bordertown and Mount Gambier, Country Arts SA ensures that regional audiences have access to world-class cultural experiences right on their doorstep.
Coober Pedy Opal Festival
June, Coober Pedy
If you’re looking for something completely different, the opal capital of the world delivers. Coober Pedy hosts this vibrant three-day celebration of its mining heritage, fusing dazzling opal displays with craft markets, live entertainment and cultural storytelling.
Visitors can explore the town’s growing art scene, including Aboriginal art at Umoona Community Arts Centre and the eclectic works at Josephine’s Gallery. The festival presents an exciting opportunity to connect art with the region’s history and culture, while supporting local artists and businesses.
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- Image Credit :: South Australian Tourism Commission
Tarnanthi Festival
October 2025–January 2026, Art Gallery of South Australia (AGSA)
Celebrating its tenth anniversary in 2025, Tarnanthi remains the premier showcase of contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art in Australia. Hosted by AGSA and supported by partner venues across the state, the festival presents hundreds of works from past and present artists, highlighting the diversity, innovation and storytelling traditions of First Nations creators.
Expect thought-provoking exhibitions, artist talks, workshops and performances that provide a deeper understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. With its focus on community engagement and artistic excellence, Tarnanthi continues to be a cultural cornerstone in South Australia’s art scene.
With such a dynamic line-up of exhibitions and festivals, there’s no shortage of artistic inspiration to be found. Mark your calendar and start planning your art travels now!
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