HOTA Gallery

HOTA Gallery is the visual arts centre within the HOTA precinct in Surfers Paradise, bringing contemporary art, exhibitions, dining and retail together in one substantial cultural venue. The gallery is built around five exhibition spaces, with collection storage and studio facilities also on site, giving visitors plenty to explore beyond a single display. It suits a focused gallery visit, a cultural day out or a stop paired with the wider HOTA program of cinema, theatre, music, workshops and festivals.

The exhibition program spans Australian and international perspectives. The 5th National Indigenous Art Triennial: After the Rain brings together multidisciplinary installations by established and emerging First Nations artists from across Australia. Led by First Nations curator and artist Tony Albert, the exhibition considers intergenerational legacy, cultural strength, rebirth and connection to Country. The participating artists include Alair Pambegan, Aretha Brown, Vincent Namatjira, Naminapu Maymuru-White and Warraba Weatherall, among others, creating a broad presentation of contemporary First Nations art and ideas.

Another major exhibition, This Moment: Highlights from the White Rabbit Collection of Chinese Contemporary Art, presents more than 35 works by 25 artists. The selection includes video, photography, painting, light installations and large-scale sculpture, examining social change, authority, history and changing perceptions of modern China. It is a Queensland-exclusive presentation of work from Sydney’s White Rabbit Gallery collection, and the website states that entry to this exhibition is free. Families can also visit Aka Sorbie: Saltwater Heart in the Children’s Gallery, an immersive exhibition inspired by Torres Strait artist Lisa Sorbie Martin’s childhood memories, culture and connection to the natural environment. Its play-based elements include an island hut, story tree and creative activities.

Food and drink are part of the HOTA experience rather than an afterthought. Palette Restaurant is located on the gallery’s ground level, while The Exhibitionist Bar occupies the rooftop with city views, cocktails, wines and small bites. HOTA Café offers coffee, pastries and all-day food in the central precinct. For something more structured, the venue’s program includes HOTA Signature High Tea, a dumpling-making workshop, and dining experiences pairing gallery tours with meals at Palette. These options make HOTA suitable for solo visitors, art-focused dates, families and groups looking to combine exhibitions with a meal or a hands-on activity.