Visiting at a quiet time

I can VISIT THE GALLERY AT A QUIeT TIME

The quietest times are usually between 10:00–11:00am and 3:30–5:00pm, Monday to Thursday.

The quietest time can be different depending on what art is on show. I can check by calling (02) 6102 7070, emailing bookings@npg.gov.au or texting 0434 561 316 for more information.

I can also join a quiet, Relaxed Morning session where the Gallery opens early at 9:00am. I can check the website to find out when the next Relaxed Morning is scheduled and make a booking.

I can prepare for my visIt

I have to buy a ticket for some exhibitions. I can buy tickets online so that I don’t have to wait in a queue. I can also use the free wifi at the NPG to buy a ticket on my own device when I arrive at the building.

The NPG is temperature controlled to protect the artworks. This means it can be very cold or very warm. I can wear layers of clothing, for example, a jacket or jumper that I can take off or put on so I am not too hot or cold.

I will need to leave any food or drink I bring from home (as well as large bags) in the self-service lockers. I will also need to leave my umbrella there. This is to keep the art safe. The lockers are near the main entrance of the NPG.

I can find my way around the building

All the places I can visit at the NPG are on the ground floor.

There are seats throughout gallery spaces so I can rest if I need to.

I can borrow a walker, wheelchair or walking stick to use in the gallery spaces. These are available free from the Information Desk.

I will find different types of spaces in the NPG. Rooms can be big, small, bright, dark, quiet or loud. Sometimes there are lots of noises all at once from screens, videos, or other visitors. I can bring my own noise cancelling headphones or ear plugs to help me manage.

If I feel overwhelmed or need a break there are spaces I can go to. These spaces include the:

• Liangis Theatre foyer
• Western Courtyard

NPG staff can help me find a quiet space if I need it.

I can download a PDF file of the NPG map or view it online to help prepare for my visit.

I can visit the café

I can buy food and drinks at the café. The café can be loud when it’s busy. If I want some quiet I can order take away or bring my own food to enjoy in the Western Courtyard or outside the café on the grass. It is important to remember that food or drink is not allowed in gallery spaces.

I can prepare for my visit with a Visual Story

Visual stories are written in an easy-to-follow and accessible format. I can use them to prepare myself for my visit. They will increase the predictability of a new environment or situation for me.

This helps bring familiarity to a process and reduces anxiety and stress.

The NPG has developed a series of Visual Stories with the Autism Friendly Team from Autism Spectrum Australia.

I can view the Visual Stories for general visitors online.

I can join a Relaxed Morning

The NPG has a Relaxed Morning every three months. The building opens at 9:00am which is earlier than usual. This means the NPG will be less crowded so I can enjoy a low sensory experience of the art.

I’ll find quiet spaces and a creative activity to enjoy. People of all ages are welcome.

I can find information on upcoming Relaxed Mornings in the website calendar.

I can keep Covid safe at the NPG

I should visit when I am healthy and have no COVID symptoms.

I might see NPG, security staff and other visitors wearing masks.

I can wear a mask if I would like to.

I should keep a safe distance from staff and other visitors.

I will wash or sanitise my hands regularly.

I will follow current health advice.