Gallery 144

A New Voice in Sydney's Contemporary Art Scene

Gallery 144 is a contemporary art gallery located at 144 Commonwealth Street in Surry Hills, Sydney, occupying a neighbourhood recognised for its vibrant creative culture. Founded as Outsider Gallery in 2024 by Michael Pizzardello and Nik Ternezis, the space quickly established itself as an independent voice championing ambitious artistic practice and visionary work. In 2026, the gallery rebranded as Gallery 144, marking a significant expansion of its curatorial programme and a deepened commitment to fostering the next generation of contemporary Australian artists.

From its inception, Gallery 144 has been built on principles of close collaboration with artists and an open, welcoming environment. The gallery represents a select roster of artists and provides long-term support for their creative development, moving beyond conventional pathways to champion work that is fearless, distinctive and outward-looking. This foundational approach continues to define the space as it grows, establishing Gallery 144 as a platform for artists who reframe how we see and engage with the world.

Contemporary, Abstract and Expressive Artistic Practices

Gallery 144's programme encompasses a diverse range of contemporary art practices, from abstract and expressionist work to figurative and landscape painting. The gallery is particularly drawn to artists whose work pushes beyond traditional boundaries, exploring urgent and visionary creative visions. By presenting both emerging and established artists, the space creates dialogue between different generations of practice, fostering ambitious creative vision and supporting the development of distinctive artistic voices.

The curatorial approach at Gallery 144 emphasises quality over quantity and depth of engagement over trend-chasing. Each artist represented in the gallery's programme has been selected for the integrity and originality of their practice, ensuring that exhibitions consistently offer visitors meaningful encounters with contemporary art. Works range across styles and mediums, reflecting the gallery's commitment to a broad definition of contemporary artistic practice whilst maintaining a rigorous curatorial standard.

Dynamic Exhibition Programme and Featured Artists

Gallery 144 maintains an active exhibition schedule featuring both group and solo presentations. Upcoming exhibitions showcase artists pushing the boundaries of contemporary practice, such as Trésor Murace's Afterglow, running from July to August 2026. The gallery also maintains a stockroom of available works, including limited-edition prints and established pieces by artists such as John Aslanidis, whose Sonic series exemplifies the abstract and expressionist sensibilities that sit at the heart of the gallery's practice.

By combining rotating exhibition displays with its ongoing stockroom collection, Gallery 144 offers visitors multiple entry points into contemporary art, whether seeking newly commissioned work or acquiring pieces by established artists. The gallery invites visitors to subscribe to its monthly invitation list to stay informed about forthcoming openings, new artists and exhibitions, ensuring close engagement with an evolving programme.

What Sets Gallery 144 Apart

In a crowded contemporary art landscape, Gallery 144 distinguishes itself through its unwavering focus on artist support and long-term creative development. Rather than serving as a transient showcase, the gallery functions as a genuine partner in artists' careers, fostering sustained practice and creative ambition over years rather than seasons. This commitment to meaningful collaboration means that exhibitions at Gallery 144 emerge from deep understanding between artist and curator, resulting in work that resonates with particular clarity and purpose.

The rebranding from Outsider Gallery to Gallery 144 signals not a departure from founding principles but their expansion. The new name—derived from the gallery's street address at 144 Commonwealth Street—grounds the space in its Surry Hills location whilst signalling renewed confidence and clarity of purpose. For art collectors, emerging practitioners and curious visitors alike, Gallery 144 represents a thoughtful alternative to established gallery models, one where artistic vision genuinely takes precedence over commercial calculation.

Planning Your Visit to Gallery 144, Surry Hills

Gallery 144 is open to the public Wednesday through Saturday, from 10am to 5pm, with additional visits available by appointment. Located on Commonwealth Street in Surry Hills, the gallery is accessible to visitors across Sydney and easily reached by public transport. For those planning a visit, the gallery team welcome inquiries and are happy to discuss works, exhibitions or artistic collaboration.

To stay connected with Gallery 144's programme, visitors are encouraged to follow the gallery on Instagram (@gallery144__) or subscribe to its monthly newsletter, which announces upcoming exhibitions, new artist additions and gallery news. For specific inquiries, the team can be reached by phone or email. Whether you're a serious collector, emerging artist or simply curious about contemporary art in Sydney, Gallery 144 offers a welcoming and stimulating space to encounter distinctive artistic voices.