This Glamorous Art Gala Is Returning To Brisbane, Here’s How To Score Tickets

If the first Monday in May is your favourite day of the year (IYKYK), you’re in luck. The Institute of Modern Art's annual Gala and Benefit Auction is returning this August, bringing together artists, collectors and culture lovers for a fashionable night out. 

As Queensland's premier charitable gala for contemporary art, the event is the IMA's biggest fundraiser of the year. And it’s far from your average black-tie affair, with incredible art, spirited bidding, flowing wine and a room full of Brisbane's brightest creative crowd. 

Held at The Calile Hotel, this year's benefit auction is stacked with works from some of Australia's most celebrated artists, including Archibald Prize winner Mitch Cairns, alongside Tony Albert, Richard Bell, Jonny Niesche, Sam Cranstoun and Rosemary Liang. 

But the fun isn't limited to one night only. 

The IMA's online silent auction opens on Wednesday 22 July at 6pm and runs until 10pm on Friday 7 August, giving everyone the chance to snap up a covetable artwork from wherever they are. Select pieces will be exclusive to the Gala, while an online raffle packed with prizes from some of Brisbane's best hospitality, entertainment, arts and lifestyle brands will also be up for grabs—all in support of Australia's oldest independent contemporary arts organisation. 

Dress To Impress 

The theme for 2026 is Dress To Impress: Art Couture, so leave understated at home. This is your chance to put together your best Met Gala-inspired ensemble, with guests encouraged to take inspiration from the iconic artists, movements and masterpieces that have shaped the creative world. There's even a prize for best dressed, so let your imagination (and wardrobe) run wild.

Win A Double Pass 

Want in? Urban List has teamed up with IMA to give you the chance to win a double pass to the Gala. Simply fill out the entry form below to go in the running for tickets to a glamorous night of contemporary art and dazzling fashion.

The Details

What: Institute of Modern Art Gala and Benefit Auction 2026
Where: The Calile Hotel, Brisbane 
When: Friday 7 August, 6pm to late
Tickets: From $315, buy online here,  

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by the Institute Of Modern Art and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.  

Images: Supplied.