A free public contemporary art museum at Adelaide University, housed in the Hawke Building of the City West campus. The Samstag offers access to evolving collections and exhibitions without admission charges.
At a glance
The Samstag Museum of Art is Adelaide University’s principal contemporary gallery, welcoming visitors with no entry fee. Situated on the City West campus, it balances its role as a teaching institution with public programming and curated exhibitions.
History
The museum traces its lineage to around 1977, when a gallery first opened under the auspices of what would become the University of South Australia. The institution underwent several name and location changes over its first three decades. In 1991, coinciding with the establishment of the University of South Australia, it became the University of South Australia Art Museum. The gallery relocated to City West in 1998. Following the 2017 merger between the University of South Australia and the University of Adelaide, the museum was rebranded as part of the consolidated Adelaide University.
The museum opened under its present name, the Anne & Gordon Samstag Museum of Art, in October 2007, honoring donors whose support shaped its development.
What you see
The Samstag occupies the Hawke Building within Adelaide University’s City West campus. Its architectural integration reflects the institution’s commitment to making contemporary art a visible part of campus life and public space.
Cultural significance
As Adelaide’s dedicated contemporary art venue within a university setting, the Samstag serves both educational and community functions. Its free admission policy distinguishes it among regional institutions and reflects a commitment to broad public access to contemporary visual culture.
Key facts
- Country: Australia
- City: Adelaide, South Australia
- Coordinates: −34.9222°, 138.5913°
- Opened: October 2007 (in current location and under current name)
- Parent institution: Adelaide University
- Admission: Free
Practical information & getting there
The museum is located on the City West campus of Adelaide University in Adelaide, South Australia. It is open to the public with free admission. Check Adelaide University’s website for current hours and exhibition details.
Sources & resources
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