Spanning contemporary China, queer Aotearoa, and a major international presentation of Pablo Picasso, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki’s line-up speaks to how we live now: globally connected, historically aware and deeply interested in identity, place and creative expression.
“In 2026, the Gallery will continue to make a vital contribution to Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s vibrant arts scene, connecting communities with art and ideas.” says Dr Sarah Farrar, Head of Curatorial and Learning at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki.
This year’s programme includes the first comprehensive survey of queer lens-based art in Aotearoa, as well as two international exhibitions; a survey of contemporary Chinese art and the first solo exhibition of Pablo Picasso’s work. Also on display will be the collection of Auckland philanthropist Greg Moyle, offering an exhibition of major New Zealand 20th century art.
Forever Tomorrow: Chinese Art Now
2 May – 23 August 2026
This major survey of contemporary Chinese art traces the seismic cultural shifts that followed the late-1970s reforms — a period that reshaped cities, identities and creative freedom.
The result is work that feels urgent, experimental and visually arresting. Internationally renowned figures such as Ai Weiwei, Xu Zhen, Xiao Lu and filmmaker Yang Fudong appear alongside artists exhibiting in New Zealand for the first time.
Expect photography, performance, sculpture and new media works that explore what it means to be human in a rapidly transforming world — the kind of exhibition that lingers long after you leave the gallery.
In Trust for Tomorrow: The Greg J Moyle Foundation Bequest
Opens 23 May 2026
This exhibition tells the story of New Zealand art — the colours, landscapes and personalities that have shaped our visual culture.
It celebrates a promised gift of 20 major works from Auckland collector Greg Moyle, offering a window into pivotal moments in 20th-century art in Aotearoa. Included are significant paintings by Rita Angus, Frances Hodgkins, Ralph Hotere and Michael Smither.
Family Album: Queer Aotearoa
4 July 2026 – 28 February 2027
The power of lens takes centre stage in this landmark exhibition — the first major survey of queer art in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Bringing together historical images and contemporary practice, Family Album explores the camera as both an artistic tool and a means of visibility, resistance and self-definition. Timed to coincide with the 40th anniversary of the Homosexual Law Reform Act and Auckland Pride 2027, the exhibition feels both celebratory and deeply reflective.
Picasso: Designed by Paul Smith
10 October 2026 – 1 February 2027
It has been more than three decades since Aotearoa hosted a major solo exhibition of Picasso, making this a rare opportunity to see the breadth of his work up close.
Drawn from the celebrated collection of the Musée national Picasso-Paris, the exhibition spans paintings, sculpture, ceramics, prints and drawings — from the Blue and Rose periods through to Cubism.
What sets this presentation apart is its design collaboration with British designer Sir Paul Smith, who reimagines the exhibition environment with bold colour, pattern, light and texture. Immersive spaces will feel as thoughtfully styled as they are historically significant — a meeting of art history and contemporary design sensibility.
