Experience the Archibald Prize 2025 at Geelong Gallery
This exhibition ended on 9 November 2025.
The Archibald Prize 2025 is on show at Geelong Gallery from Saturday 30 August to Sunday 9 November 2025, bringing 57 finalist works from one of Australia’s most prestigious art awards. Known for capturing famous faces and everyday heroes alike, this exhibition is as much about people and stories as it is about art. With timed entry, large print labels, relaxed sessions, and audio/Auslan tours, it’s designed to be accessible and welcoming for all visitors.
Geelong Archibald Prize Exhibition 2025
Chris’s review
Seniors in Melbourne reviews of various Art Galleries in our State’s Capital have encouraged me to develop a deeper interest in art. I no longer wander unthinkingly through an exhibition but rather find myself slowing to ponder what the artist is saying and what the artwork is meaning to me.
So when I read that the Archibald Prize Finalists 2025 Touring Exhibition was on view at the Geelong Gallery, an outing was planned. There are 57 finalists with paintings on display at the exhibition and the adventure into their artistic creations didn’t disappoint.
I discovered that the Archibald Prize is not exclusively for “traditional” paintings; the work can be painted in any medium and does not need to be on canvas. The most crucial requirement is that the work is a portrait, painted from life with at least one live sitting.
My limited understanding of a portrait (picture of head and shoulders) has also been challenged to now not only show the subject’s likeness but to convey personality, character or mood… in other words, a snapshot into the person’s inner self.
The 2025 finalist selection includes works’ large and small, exhibiting a wide spectrum of styles and techniques. My personal favourites are the very detailed and I find others a tad sketchy, but all have deep meaning and I enjoy the moods they evoke.
The Geelong exhibition runs until the 9th November and the $20 (concession, or seniors (Tuesday only) discount) ticket price is, I feel, worth it.
If you would like a break from exploring Melbourne, why not plan a day trip to Victoria’s largest regional city. The train, using your Senior’s Myki, is very reasonable and from the Geelong station to Geelong Gallery at 55 Little Malop Street, is a 5 minute walk through the lovely Johnstone Park. On select weekends (25–26 October, 1–2 November and 8–9 November) Travellers Aid will provide a wheelchair-accessible buggy service between Geelong Railway Station and Geelong Gallery.
Of course you can also drive to Geelong and there is a ferry option, Docklands to Geelong via Portarlington every Saturday and Sunday.
But wait, there’s more, while in Geelong you may like to take the opportunity to explore the many top-class eateries and other attractions the City has to offer.
Why the Archibald Matters
Since its beginnings in 1921, the Archibald has reflected back the faces and issues of its time.
Standing among the works, I am reminded that these portraits aren’t just about brushstrokes and technique — they’re about identity, representation, and capturing a slice of history.
And yes, the People’s Choice Award is part of the fun. Don’t forget to cast your vote via the QR code at the exit.
Terrie’s review
I’m really learning to appreciate art more in my senior years. My husband and I went to the Archibald Prize Art Exhibition held at the Geelong Art Gallery this year. What a variety of “Portraits” or “interpretation of portraits”.
I always thought a portrait was the head and shoulders, but now I realise I am ignorant in the ways of true art. There was quite a varied interpretation of my idea of a portrait. We were very impressed with the artists’ work, some, however, making a bigger impression than others, but all interesting and thought-provoking.
It was well worth seeing this exhibition in person, and the cost of $20 for concession was affordable. Easy wheelchair access. There is a cafe right next door to the Gallery, and also one across the road at the Geelong Arts Centre. If you come by train to Geelong, it is only a short walk from the station. I’ve only ever seen a quick report on the news of this Archibald Prize Art Exhibition, so I a was very thankful to be able to see it in person in my own hometown. Very worthwhile.
Planning Your Visit
The Archibald Prize 2025 runs at Geelong Gallery until Sunday 9 November 2025. Tickets are timed to avoid crowding, and I’d recommend booking online in advance to skip the queues.
Ticket Prices
- Adult: $24
- Concession: $20
- Child: $13
- Members: $17
- Art Gallery of NSW members: Free with valid membership
Allow at least an hour to explore the exhibition, though I find myself lingering longer at certain portraits.
Getting There
- By train: Geelong Gallery is just a three-minute walk through Johnstone Park from Geelong Railway Station.
- By car: Around 60 minutes from Melbourne CBD.
- By bus: Services run to both Geelong Railway Station and Moorabool Street Bus Interchange, each about five minutes on foot.
- By ferry: Port Phillip Ferries from Docklands to Geelong run weekends, with the gallery a 15-minute walk from Cunningham Pier.
On select weekends (25–26 October, 1–2 November and 8–9 November), Travellers Aid will provide a wheelchair-accessible buggy service between Geelong Railway Station and Geelong Gallery.
Geelong Gallery Accessibility
Geelong Gallery has put a lot of thought into making the Archibald Prize 2025 exhibition welcoming for everyone.
I appreciate the large print labels and the option to download the exhibition text onto my own device — a thoughtful touch that meant I could adjust the size and read at my own pace.
There are also audio and Auslan tours provided via the Art Gallery of NSW website — simply bring your own headphones to listen on your phone or tablet. We’ve found the audio descriptions a wonderful way to deepen our understanding of certain portraits, especially when visiting with older kids who are curious about the artists’ stories.
For those who prefer a quieter environment, relaxed sessions run before regular opening hours, ideal for people with sensory sensitivities or anyone who would benefit from a gentler atmosphere.
Timed entry tickets also help to keep the gallery comfortable and crowd-free, ensuring you can take your time without feeling rushed. Companion Card holders receive free entry.
Make a Day of It
Your exhibition ticket also unlocks discounts across Geelong — from special menus inspired by the exhibition to hotel deals if you’re planning to stay overnight. We stop for a coffee and cake at Tutti Café (a $10 special for ticket holders), and it’s the perfect way to reflect on the portraits we’d just seen. View the Eat Drink Play brochure for a list of deals available.
Families are welcome too — the Kid’s Trail adds an interactive element for younger visitors, making the portraits more approachable through fun questions and activities.
We notice children stopping to search for details in the artworks, pencil in hand, which keep them engaged while adults enjoy the exhibition at their own pace. It’s a lovely way to spark curiosity and conversation between generations.
For the youngest art lovers, Gallery Tots sessions (Friday mornings, 9.30–10.00am) introduce works of art through interactive storytelling and play-based activities. Aimed at children aged 18 months to four years, these sessions are free to join but require booking online.
Making Faces
Running alongside the Archibald Prize is Making Faces — Beci Orpin (30 August 2025 – 9 February 2026), a lively installation in the Gallery’s Learn Space.
Designed with kids and families in mind, it’s bursting with colour and interactive activities that encourage playful exploration of portraiture. While a separate entry fee applies, it’s a fantastic extra stop for those visiting with children.
FAQs – Archibald Prize 2025 at Geelong Gallery
When is the exhibition on?
From Saturday 30 August to Sunday 9 November 2025.
How much are tickets?
Adults $24, Concession/Seniors Card $20, Children $13, Members $17. AGNSW members enter free.
Do I need to book a time?
Yes. Timed tickets ensure a comfortable experience without long queues.
Where do I buy tickets?
Online at geelonggallery.org.au/archibald-prize-2025 or at the gallery desk. Online booking is strongly recommended.
How long should I allow?
About an hour, though you may want longer.
Are the Wynne and Sulman Prizes included?
No, only the Archibald Prize finalists are shown at Geelong Gallery.
Is there a People’s Choice Award?
Yes. You can vote once at Geelong Gallery using a QR code at the exit.
Are there family-friendly activities?
Yes. Free Kid’s Trails are available daily, and Gallery Tots sessions run every Friday morning.
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