David Hockney Exhibitions in Australia: Two Blockbuster Shows to 2026

David Hockney exhibitions in Australia are set to draw massive crowds later this year, with two blockbuster shows honoring the late British artist. The National Gallery of Australia in Canberra and Carriageworks in Sydney will both host major retrospectives, offering unique perspectives on Hockney's prolific career.

David Hockney Portraits in Print at the National Gallery of Australia

From September to February, the National Gallery of Australia (NGA) will present David Hockney: Portraits in Print, featuring over 60 works created over 30 years. This exhibition provides an intimate view of Hockney's personal life, creative practice, and deep engagement with portraiture. The NGA holds the largest collection of Hockney's work in Australia, making this a homecoming of sorts for the artist's legacy.

What to Expect from the Print Exhibition

Visitors will see etchings, lithographs, and digital prints that reveal Hockney's experimental approach to capturing human emotion. The show emphasizes his relationships with friends, lovers, and fellow artists, offering a rare glimpse into his inner circle. Curators have arranged the works chronologically, tracing his stylistic evolution from traditional to boldly innovative.

David Hockney: Bigger & Closer at Carriageworks Sydney

Running from October to January, David Hockney: Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away) is an immersive exhibition created by Lightroom London. Hockney himself recorded narration that guides visitors through his processes and philosophy, making it a deeply personal experience. The show has already been staged in London, Manchester, Shanghai, and Seoul, attracting over 650,000 visitors globally.

The Immersive Experience

Unlike traditional exhibitions, this one uses large-scale projections, sound, and light to envelop audiences in Hockney's vibrant landscapes and portraits. Richard Slaney, CEO of Lightroom and producer of the show, described Hockney as “your favourite uncle who takes you to an art gallery and says something insightful to you over your shoulder.” Hockney spent months perfecting the narration, treating the show as an artwork in its own right.

Comparison of the Two Exhibitions

To help you decide which show to prioritize, here's a quick comparison:

Why These Exhibitions Matter

Hockney passed away in June at age 88, making these shows a poignant tribute to his enduring influence. His ability to blend classical techniques with modern technology remains unmatched. The exhibitions also highlight Australia's strong connection to Hockney, with the NGA's collection being a cornerstone of its modern art holdings.

For art lovers, this is a rare opportunity to see both a comprehensive print retrospective and an immersive digital celebration in one trip. Sydney and Canberra are just a short flight apart, so you can easily visit both.

Key Takeaways

• Two major David Hockney exhibitions open in Australia in late 2025.
• The NGA show focuses on intimate portraits in print, spanning 30 years.
• Carriageworks offers an immersive experience with Hockney's own narration.
• Both shows are expected to sell out, so book tickets in advance.
• Hockney's death adds emotional weight to these final collaborations.

FAQ