Bangalore (Bengaluru) may be best known as India’s Silicon Valley, but the city is also a thriving cultural hub with a rich and evolving art scene. From century-old institutions that preserve the legacy of Indian masters to bold contemporary spaces experimenting with installations, photography, and digital media, Bangalore has something to inspire every art lover.
If you’re looking for art galleries in Bangalore, planning to catch an art exhibition in Bangalore, or simply searching for the best art galleries near you, this guide highlights 10 must-visit spaces that define the city’s creative spirit. Whether you’re an art collector, a student, or someone who just enjoys exploring culture on weekends, these galleries will give you a true taste of Bengaluru’s artistic soul.
1. National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) Bangalore
Location: Manikyavelu Mansion, Palace Road
Known for: Indian modern and contemporary art, including Raja Ravi Varma, Amrita Sher-Gil, M.F. Husain, and F.N. Souza.
Why visit: Housed in a heritage colonial mansion, NGMA offers a sweeping collection of paintings, sculptures, and rotating exhibitions. It’s one of India’s premier art institutions and a must-visit for history and art lovers.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays & National Holidays)
2. Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath
Location: Kumarakrupa Road, Seshadripuram
Known for: A cluster of galleries showcasing folk art, tribal traditions, modern Indian masters, and international artists.
Why visit: More than just a gallery, it’s an art complex with museums, exhibitions, craft bazaars, and an art school. A cultural hub where art meets community.
Timings: 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM (Museum), 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Galleries), Open all days except public holidays
3. Venkatappa Art Gallery
Image courtesy: archaeology.karnataka.gov.in
Location: Kasturba Road, Cubbon Park
Known for: Works of K. Venkatappa, K.K. Hebbar, and other Indian painters.
Why visit: One of Bangalore’s oldest galleries, it preserves the legacy of Karnataka’s artists. Affordable and accessible, perfect for a short art stop.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
4. Museum of Art & Photography (MAP)
Image courtesy: map-india
Location: Kasturba Road
Known for: Photography, textiles, design, crafts, and contemporary art.
Why visit: A new-age museum blending heritage and digital experiences. MAP has quickly
become one of Bangalore’s top destinations for art exhibitions, installations, and workshops.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (Closed Mondays; check website for event schedules)
5. Art Houz Bangalore
Image courtesy: arthouz.com
Location: Vasanth Nagar
Known for: Contemporary art from emerging and established Indian artists.
Why visit: A pan-India gallery network that frequently hosts curated exhibitions and artist talks.
Timings: Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
6. KYNKYNY Art Gallery
Image courtesy: tripadvisor.in
Address: 148, Infantry Road, Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560051
Why visit: Friendly and accessible space for both first-time buyers and seasoned collectors; regularly holds curated exhibitions and artist talks; helps demystify art and makes it approachable.
Timings: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Monday to Saturday) ·
7. Gallery Sumukha
Image courtesy: sublimegalleria.com
Location: Wilson Garden
Known for: Contemporary art, installations, and large-scale works.
Why visit: A spacious, industrial-style gallery that encourages experimentation. Sumukha is one of the largest private galleries in South India.
Timings: 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Sundays)
8. Rangoli Metro Art Center
Image courtesy: bangalore.explocity.com
Location: MG Road Metro Station, Shivaji Nagar
Known for: Public art spaces including Vismaya, Chaya, and Belaku galleries, plus outdoor installations and cultural activities.
Why visit: A vibrant hub for art and community, easily accessible by metro. Perfect for exhibitions, workshops, and family outings in the heart of the city.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM (Open all days)
9. Gallery Sumukha
Image courtesy: sumukha.com
Location: Wilson Garden, BTS Depot Road
Known for: Contemporary art, large-scale installations, and experimental works by leading Indian artists.
Why visit: One of South India’s largest private galleries, offering a spacious industrial-style setting that encourages bold and innovative artistic expression.
Timings: 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Tuesday to Saturday; Closed Sundays & Mondays)
10. Abstract Art Gallery
Location: Cunningham Road
Known for: Abstract and contemporary works by local and national artists.
Why visit: A boutique space perfect for those who enjoy minimalism and abstraction. Often features Bangalore-based painters and sculptors.
Timings: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Closed Sundays)
Conclusion:
Bangalore’s art landscape is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. From the historic halls of National Gallery of Modern Art and Venkatappa Art Gallery to the contemporary vibes of Galleryske, Sumukha, and Tasveer, each space offers a unique perspective on India’s past, present, and future in art.
Whether you’re exploring a painting gallery in Bangalore, attending the latest art exhibition in Jayanagar or Indiranagar, or just strolling into a gallery near you, these top 10 destinations promise more than just visual delight. They are windows into stories, traditions, and bold creative expressions that shape the city’s cultural identity.
So the next time you’re in Bengaluru, step away from the usual cafes and malls and spend a day discovering its thriving art galleries. Who knows, you might just stumble upon your next favorite artist.
