The University Art Collection

The University Art Collection is a growing collection of over 3,600 individual works of art and culturally significant material. As a valuable resource for our region, this active collection support research and learning, promotes wellbeing and cultural inclusion, and contributes to the unique spaces and built environment of the University.

In the University's 60th anniversary year, a landmark donation of 80 artworks was made to the Collection by Aaron and Samantha Sampson. The donated works include pieces by prominent Newcastle-based artists, many of whom have strong connections to the University as teaching staff, alumni, and exhibiting artists. This generous contribution significantly enhances the Collection and highlights the vibrancy of artistic practice in the region. It reflects the strength of community support for the arts and the enduring legacy of the University’s commitment to creative and cultural engagement.

For those interested in donating an item to the Collection, more information can be found here.

To protect the copyright of our artists and creators, the full collection database is available for view by request - please email artcollection@newcastle.edu.au. Highlights from the Collection can be accessed below.

_{IMAGE: Installation view Framed: The Sampson Collection, The University Gallery 2025}

Artists in the Art Collection

Since its establishment over sixty years ago, the Art Collection has continually evolved to reflect the best of both regional and nationally significant creative practices. The Collection includes artists such as James Drinkwater, Margaret Preston, Nicole Chaffey, Braddon Snape, Judy Cassab, Charles Blackman, Janet Laurence and Lottie Consalvo.

In recent years the focus has been on the acquisition of contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island artwork and cultural objects. Over half of the Collection now consists of works by First Nations artists representing the breadth of Indigenous communities across Australia, including Kaylene Whiskey, Ms D Yunupingu, Minnie Pwerle, Blak Douglas, Nongirrna Marrawili and Jimmy Pike.

A complete list of artists whose work is currently held in the Collection can be found here.

Art Collection on campus 

Alongside specially commission projects, a large portion of the artwork in the University Art Collection is on display throughout our campuses, in outdoor spaces, public areas, offices, and meeting rooms.

This not only ensures the Collection is easily accessible to our University community but also contributes to a unique sense of place.

Senior University staff can request pieces from the Art Collection to activate and enhance University spaces. This is subject to the availability of artworks and conservation guidelines.