If you’re looking for something easy-going to enjoy in your own neighbourhood, this week our Sydney Summertime tips are all about art – and the local galleries you don’t have to queue for. 

North West Disability Services’ annual art exhibition is on this Saturday 6 December, between 10am and 2pm, and the art displayed will also be up for sale. No booking is needed, just show up to the North West Disability Services Art Gallery at 15A Conie Avenue in Baulkham Hills.   

Manly Art Gallery and Museum has an extensive collection of Australian art and ceramics, and a special focus on beach culture. Its Design Shop also exclusively features local Northern Beaches artists and makers. It’s at West Esplanade Reserve, Manly, just a 4 minute walk from the ferry.  Admission is free, and it’s open from 10am to 5pm, Tuesdays to Sundays, except public holidays.  

Explore the City of Parramatta’s Public Art collection – a program of installations and artworks in public places designed to celebrate culture, history and creativity. The artworks are dotted throughout the city, transforming the landscape, and together make a great art walking trail.

Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre is located in the Casula Parklands on the banks of the Georges River at Liverpool. There’s a café and restaurant attached, free parking and Casula Railway Station close by. Usually open from Tuesday to Sunday, it will be closed from 22 December to 9 January, so grab the chance to check it out soon, or bookmark it for a visit later in the summer.

Head to the National Art School Gallery in Darlinghurst for the cutting edge in art ideas and practice. It’s free, and open 11am to 5pm, Monday to Sunday (except public holidays). Exhibitions on soon include “The Grad Show” from 5-14 December, then “Searchers: Graffiti and Contemporary Art” from 17 January to 11 April. It’s at 156 Forbes Street, Darlinghurst, not far from Taylor Square. 

And that’s just a sprinkling of art around town, all ready to please the eye and refresh the mind. Do check out your local council and community group websites and socials as well, for even more art to enjoy in your neighbourhood.