New UQ Art Museum

The new Art Museum will span will levels of the heritage-listed Forgan Smith Tower and feature spaces for exhibitions, learning and community engagement.  The design will draw on the building’s Art Deco character and original open-plan layout to create a vibrant and welcoming cultural destination while honouring its historic significance.  

While the new gallery is expected 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 has been completed 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.

Current works: Q3 2026 to 2027

From September 2026, scaffolding will be progressively installed around the Tower’s exterior to support facade restoration works.  

This includes exterior sandstone repairs to extend the longevity of the building which has been a landmark at UQ for more than 70 years. Works are being guided by heritage specialists and the facade works will continue into 2027.  

UQ will install custom-designed screening around the scaffolding while construction is underway. 

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.