Art Galleries In Guwahati: Exploring Assamese Art And Culture

An aerial picture of a city with greenery, a cricket stadium, and housing apartments as seen during daytime

More than just a portal to the Seven Sisters, Guwahati, tucked right in the heart of Northeast India, is rapidly growing as a hive of artistic and cultural life. From traditional Assamese art to installation modern, art galleries in Guwahati mirror the variety of its people since every type of art can be found here. These are the linkages between the rich cultural legacy of this area and contemporary artistic expressions that allow residents as well as visitors to obtain a glimpse into the soul of Northeast India via creativity.

Top Art Galleries In Guwahati

Here are the top 9 art galleries in Guwahati:

1. State Museum And Art Gallery

A picture of a traditionally architectured building with its reflection in a pond of water in front during daytime

Photo: Shrikant Bansod / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Located in the heart of Guwahati, the State Museum and Art Gallery houses a diverse collection of traditional and contemporary art. This institution plays a crucial role in preserving and showcasing Assamese cultural heritage. The gallery features paintings, sculptures, and artefacts that span centuries of artistic evolution in the region. Regular exhibitions highlight both established and emerging artists from Assam and the Northeast. The museum’s commitment to education makes it a vital resource for students and art enthusiasts alike.

Location: Ambari, Guwahati
How To Reach: Accessible by local transport from Guwahati Railway Station (3 km)
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: Nominal fee for adults, discounted for students

2. Gauhati Artists’ Guild

A picture of an award ceremony happening at an art gallery in Guwahati with people distributing certificates

Photo: Prabhakar De / Wikimedia Commons

Founded in 1976, the Gauhati Artists’ Guild stands as a cornerstone of Guwahati’s art scene. This premier institution has been nurturing local talent and promoting Assamese art for over four decades. The spacious gallery regularly hosts exhibitions featuring works by both established and emerging artists from the Northeast. With excellent lighting and modern facilities, it provides an ideal setting for a wide range of artistic styles. The Guild also organizes workshops and seminars, fostering artistic discourse and community engagement.

Location: Chandmari, Guwahati
How To Reach: Easily accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw from the city centre
Timings: 11 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: Free

3. Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra

A Picture of an outdoor theatre stage with circular stands around the stage for viewers

Photo: নিৰঞ্জন বড়া / Wikimedia Commons

Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra is a sprawling cultural complex that includes multiple galleries dedicated to Assamese art and culture. The art galleries within the complex showcase a rich tapestry of traditional and contemporary works. Visitors can explore permanent exhibitions of classical Assamese art forms alongside rotating displays of modern interpretations. The complex’s serene environment and architectural beauty provide a fitting backdrop for the artwork. Regular cultural events and performances complement the visual art offerings.

Location: Panjabari, Guwahati
How To Reach: Accessible by bus or taxi from Guwahati city centre (8 km)
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: Nominal fee for adults, free for children

4. Chitrakoot Art Gallery

A picture of one of the most famous and significant art galleries in Guwahati with beautiful paintings and artefacts

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Chitrakoot Art Gallery focuses on contemporary art, providing a platform for innovative and experimental works. The gallery is known for its cutting-edge exhibitions that often push the boundaries of traditional art forms. Regular workshops and artist talks make it a dynamic space for artistic exchange and learning. Chitrakoot plays a vital role in introducing Guwahati’s art enthusiasts to diverse artistic styles and mediums, fostering a more inclusive and experimental art culture in the city.

Location: Zoo Road, Guwahati
How To Reach: Easily accessible by local transport from the city centre
Timings: 11 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: Free

5. Kamal Kumari Sabhaghar

A picture of an art gallery with people admiring and exploring the various paintings and sculptures

Photo: Riccardo / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Kamal Kumari Sabhaghar serves as a versatile venue for various art exhibitions and cultural events in Guwahati. While not exclusively an art gallery, it regularly hosts visual art displays alongside performances and literary events. The space is known for its eclectic mix of exhibitions, featuring both local and national artists. Its central location and spacious halls make it a popular choice for large-scale art events and group shows. The venue’s multidisciplinary approach contributes to a vibrant cultural atmosphere in the city.

Location: Uzan Bazar, Guwahati
How To Reach: Centrally located, accessible by various modes of transport
Timings: Varies depending on events (typically 10 AM – 8 PM)
Entry Fee: Varies by event, often free

6. Brahmaputra Art Gallery

A picture of a white wall from an art gallery in Guwahati having multiple paintings hung

Photo: Tim Gouw / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Named after the mighty river that shapes Assam’s landscape, Brahmaputra Art Gallery showcases artworks from various artists, with a special focus on promoting regional talent. The gallery’s collection spans traditional Assamese art forms to contemporary expressions, offering visitors a comprehensive view of the region’s artistic evolution. Regular exhibitions highlight emerging artists from the Northeast, providing them with crucial exposure. The gallery’s commitment to nurturing local talent makes it an important player in Guwahati’s art ecosystem.

Location: Uzanbazar, Guwahati
How To Reach: Accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi from the city centre
Timings: 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free

7. Art & Soul Gallery

A picture of an art gallery with a sculpture and multiple art pieces kept on display for visitors and art admirers

Photo: Suzy Hazelwood / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Art & Soul Gallery provides a welcoming space for both established and emerging artists to display their creations. Known for its diverse range of exhibitions, the gallery showcases everything from paintings and sculptures to installations and mixed media works. The intimate setting allows for a more personal engagement with the artwork. Art & Soul also organizes regular artist meet-and-greets and small workshops, fostering a sense of community among Guwahati’s art enthusiasts and creators.

Location: G.S. Road, Guwahati
How To Reach: Easily accessible by public transport from major city landmarks
Timings: 11 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free

8. Nehru Art Gallery

A picture of handmade art kept at display at the famous Nehru Art Gallery in Guwahati with multiple artefacts

Photo: AmanAgrahari01 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Part of the Nehru Centre, the Nehru Art Gallery hosts exhibitions that highlight various aspects of Indian art, with a special focus on works from the Northeast. The gallery’s collections often explore themes of national integration and cultural diversity. Regular exhibitions feature both traditional and contemporary artworks, providing visitors with a comprehensive view of India’s rich artistic heritage. The gallery’s association with the Nehru Centre ensures a steady stream of high-quality exhibitions and cultural events.

Location: Panbazar, Guwahati
How To Reach: Located in the city centre, easily accessible by various modes of transport
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Nominal fee

9. Guwahati Art Forum

A picture of a red wall inside an art gallery in Guwahati with multiple paintings and art pieces at display for visitors

Photo: Andrew Neel / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

The Guwahati Art Forum is an innovative initiative aimed at promoting visual arts through exhibitions and community engagement. Rather than a fixed gallery space, the Forum organizes pop-up exhibitions and art events at various locations across the city. This approach brings art out of traditional gallery settings and into public spaces, making it more accessible to a wider audience. The Forum also conducts art workshops and talks, fostering a vibrant artistic community in Guwahati.

Location: Various locations across Guwahati
How To Reach: Depends on the event location
Timings: Varies by event
Entry Fee: Usually free, may vary for special events

Art galleries in Guwahati offer a vibrant glimpse into Assamese culture and contemporary creativity. From traditional handicrafts to modern installations, these spaces showcase the region’s artistic diversity. While the gallery scene is still developing, it provides a unique perspective on Northeast Indian art. To explore Guwahati’s cultural treasures, plan your trip with TripXL. Discover hidden gems, book guided tours, and immerse yourself in the city’s evolving art.

Cover Photo: Rituraj Bhuyan / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

You can expect a mix of traditional Assamese art, contemporary paintings, sculptures, and sometimes photography and installations.
Yes, many galleries prioritize showcasing work by local and regional artists from Assam and the Northeast.
Some galleries offer guided tours, especially for group visits. It's best to inquire directly with each gallery.
Yes, many galleries allow visitors to purchase artwork. Some may also host special sale exhibitions.
While limited, spaces like the Ai-Rong Art Gallery often feature contemporary artwork.

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