‘Suburban Sublime’ explores how artists have used the medium of photography to interpret the Australian suburbs. These images from the Gallery’s Collection provide occasion to pause and reflect on familiar settings, places and people, imbuing them with aesthetic, historical and emotional significance. While rationales for capturing ‘suburbia’ vary, these artworks demonstrate the enduring role of photography in enriching the national understanding of scenes from everyday life — whether homely or uncanny.

This exhibition includes both historical and contemporary photographs that provide insight into different aspects of Australian suburban experiences, from the mundane and routine, to the evocative and haunting. Some artists capture moments of play and joy, while others document personal stories and lesser-known sociopolitical histories. Also featured are artworks that signify the importance of photography to the development of conceptual art in Australia.

Despite their varied origins and subjects, these images demonstrate the artistic potential of familiar moments that might otherwise be overlooked in the rhythms of daily life. They encourage us to look more closely at the places we inhabit — and the way these places shape our individual and social identities.

‘Suburban Sublime’  is on display from 10 August 2024 to 17 August 2025 in Gallery 6, QAG. Explore the exhibition list of works.