Major exhibition—Discovering the Impressionists
Dates: 20 June to 11 October 2026
Bookings: bookings@geelonggallery.org.au
Cost: $15.00 per student for a self-guided tour
Discovering the Impressionists is Geelong Gallery’s major exhibition for 2026, offering a fresh perspective on one of the most widely recognised movements in art history. Developed in partnership with Art Exhibitions Australia and ACPA Advising Curating Producing Art, the exhibition represents the largest international presentation in the Gallery’s 130-year history.
Bringing together more than 70 paintings—drawn predominantly from private collections and rarely seen in Australia—the exhibition presents a considered exploration of Impressionism beyond its familiar narratives. Shown exclusively in Geelong, it offers audiences a rare opportunity to encounter these works in a new context, foregrounding both the artists and the circumstances that shaped the movement.
Frequently asked questions
Are school bookings available?
Bookings are required for all student group visits to the exhibition. We highly recommend you commence the booking process a minimum of four weeks prior to your school visit.
Students from Kindergarten to VCE and Tertiary levels can be booked by contacting bookings@geelonggallery.org.au
School groups are encouraged to visit Geelong Gallery between the hours of 9.30am to 11.00am or 1.30pm to 3.00pm, if feasible, however Geelong Gallery remains flexible to visits outside of these times.
School groups pay $15.00 per student for a self-guided tour. Bookings include complimentary entry for up to two educators, any additional educators or parents attending with a school group will be charged at $15.00 each. Please note that Geelong Gallery requires visiting school groups to have a ratio of one teacher to every 10 students.
Need help getting here?
Fully subsidised student exhibition busing is available thanks to the generous support of McHarry's Buslines. To see if you are eligible, please contact bookings@geelonggallery.org.au
Is there a maximum number of students per visit?
Geelong Gallery requests that education groups are no larger than 25 students per booking. Large groups are divided and will explore the Gallery in separate, smaller groups. Please speak to a Geelong Gallery Visitor Experience staff member if you wish to bring a larger group.
What does a Guided Tour include?
Only self-guided visits will be available during the exhibition. All groups will be provided an introduction to the exhibition on arrival by a Learn volunteer.
Will resources be available?
Yes, online learning resources will be available prior to and during your visit. These resources are designed to inspire artmaking, critical thinking and discussion about Impressionist painting.
Can students bring their backpacks?
Students are not permitted to bring their backpacks. School groups are encouraged to leave bags on the bus or at school, as cloaking is limited during the exhibition period. Please only bring what is required for your visit.
Geelong Gallery thanks the generous support of McHarry's Buslines
